The Living Room Sessions, Pt. 1

Experience the intimacy and mastery of Ravi Shankar's "The Living Room Sessions, Pt. 1," a captivating album released in 2012. This Grammy Award-winning collection, recorded in the comfort of Shankar's own home in Encinitas, California, offers an unparalleled glimpse into the legendary sitarist's artistic process and deep musical prowess. At the age of 91, Ravi Shankar invited his long-time tabla accompanist, Tanmoy Bose, for an informal recording session that resulted in this enchanting set of four tracks.

"The Living Room Sessions, Pt. 1" spans a wide range of Indian classical styles, showcasing Shankar's virtuosic technique and profound musical experience. Each of the four sessions explores a different raga: Raga Malgunji, Raga Khamaj, Raga Kedara, and Raga Satyajit. Accompanied by Tanmoy Bose on tabla, Kenji Ota on treble tanpura, Barry Phillips on bass tanpura, and an unidentified tamboura player, Shankar weaves intricate melodies and rhythmic patterns that transport the listener to the heart of Indian classical music.

The album, released under the East Meets West Music label, is a testament to Shankar's enduring legacy and his ability to captivate audiences with his live performances. With a duration of 52 minutes, "The Living Room Sessions, Pt. 1" is a treasure trove of musical brilliance, perfect for both seasoned fans and newcomers to Shankar's work. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of sounds and let the masterful playing of Ravi Shankar and his ensemble transport you to a world of musical enchantment.

Ravi Shankar, born Robindra Shankar Chowdhury, was a titan of Indian classical music, renowned globally for his mastery of the sitar. Born in Varanasi, India, in 1920, Shankar's journey began at the tender age of 10, performing with his family's dance troupe across Europe and the U.S. His virtuosity and compositions, including several original ragas, captivated audiences worldwide, making him the most famous ambassador of Indian classical music in the West during the latter half of the 20th century. Shankar's influence extended beyond his performances, inspiring countless musicians, including those from the Beatles, with whom he collaborated. His compositions for films like "Gandhi" further cemented his legacy. Beyond his musical prowess, Shankar was a dedicated teacher, nurturing a new generation of musicians. His personal life included his daughters, the acclaimed singer Norah Jones and sitar player Anoushka Shankar, both of whom carry forward his musical heritage. Shankar's contributions earned him India's highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, in 1999, and his impact on global music remains unparalleled.