"Yearning," released in 1995 on Valley Entertainment, is a captivating collaboration between ambient musician Robert Rich and sarod player Lisa Moskow. This album is a unique blend of ambient, space music, dark ambient, drone, and new age genres, resulting in a mesmerizing 59-minute journey. The musical concept behind "Yearning" emerged during the creation of Robert Rich's 1994 release "Propagation," where Rich envisioned a complete aural womb that would go on forever. This vision materialized in "Yearning," which is based on the classical Indian musical form known as alap, the first and slowest section of a raga.
The album features Moskow’s evocative sarod solos set against Rich’s signature droning ambiences, creating a serene and meditative soundscape. Rich’s gauzy synth textures, ethereal flutes, and gently clanging percussion provide a weightless, enveloping backdrop for Moskow’s evocative, spacious melodies. The six tracks—"Bija," "Suspension," "Nada," "Kali," "A Thousand Tears," and "The Mirror"—each contribute to the album's tranquil and introspective atmosphere.
"Yearning" is not just an album; it's an immersive experience that invites listeners to lose themselves in its soothing sounds. The collaboration between Rich and Moskow results in a harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western musical traditions, making "Yearning" a timeless piece of ambient music. Whether you're a fan of ambient music or simply looking for a peaceful and meditative listening experience, "Yearning" is sure to captivate and inspire.