STAIRWAY TO NIRVANA
Reviewed By Janet Mawdesley April 30, 2021
Artist – Samir Bodhi
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Deliciously delightful sums up Stairway To Nirvana from Samir Bodhi, a beautifully delicate work of pure pleasure that simply flows, creating a sense of Nirvana, which Bodhi and his ensemble believe is something that is needed, required in the world of today; a world where times are still very troubled, life is uncertain and the day to day lifestyle ever-changing.
Tranquillity establishes the elements of the work with an almost film score piece which seduces as it charms. As the work unfolds there is a little of something for everyone encapsulated in Nirvana. Om, the melodic chant well known as a sacred and spiritual component of Eastern religion, is captured with a deep drone before the vocal accompaniment joins in to form a delicate, meditative recitation.
Absolutely the most gorgeous piece on the album is the enchanting Harmony, a mix of Eastern and Western music folding seamlessly into one, with a dainty clapping threading the various influences of jazz and solo piano together. To sink the emotions into this piece is to find true bliss!
Moving on to Peace, a vastly different, up-tempo sound is introduced with the sharper, folk flavour of vocals from Madhumita Chatterjee complimented with guitar and synth, creating a contemporary piece which holds hope and enjoyment within the melody.
Eventually the final piece Nirvana is presented to return the mere mortal to everyday life, courtesy of a wonderful blend of guitar, percussion and sarangi, to create a glorious rich tapestry of life’s journey of emotions.
Not a long album Stairway to Nirvana captivates, relaxes, requests a little reflection on a personal level, while offering a gentle peace and understanding through the healing of music. Arriving at the end of the final track, it is an absolute pleasure to push play over and over again!