Search - Zakir Hussain :: Essence of Rhythm

U S T AAAAAAAAAA D J I

chaatrik | saint louis, mo United States | 03/18/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Once again, Ustad Zakir Ji has proved his mastery over the tabla in this most amazing recording. I enjoyed this recording for a number of reasons: he demonstrates ways and methods to play off of odd timed cycles of 10, 12, and 15 beats - rather than the age old favorites of 4, 8, or 16 (which everyone feels comfortable in). He takes these, and incorporates "tukras" and "kaidas" of teen taal and kehrva and shows how to confuse even the beat itself- that is, he places four of five, eight over fifteen, 32 over six, 49 and a half over nine, 20 and three quarters over three and a third...and unless you are locked into the lahara (the cycle keeping melody behind the tabla) you will trip over yourself trying to find the ONE. also, except for the track that his younger brother, Fazal Ji (who is also AMAZING), accompanies him on - this cd is pure Z A K I R. He plays the sarangi, he plays the tabla, and he plays the tabla (duets with himself). Tuning his tablas to the root note as well as the perfect fourth (correct me if i'm wrong), he gets a really cool sound with duel tabla solos, and tabla duels between the "Sa" pitched tabla and the "Ma" pitched. Thank you, Ustad Ji."

Punjabi at its best

Shane Steinhilber | East Hampton, N.Y. United States | 01/17/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Anyone who knows the name Zakir Hussain knows to expect nothing but top notch tabla acompanyment. This cd spotlights this phenomanal artist in three solos. Mindboggleing intrcacy and impecable timing are but a few things to expect from this indescribable cd. A must have for percussionists, tabla enthusiasts, or anyone whose heart beats."

For the tabla lover

Heidi M. Hawkins | Bellingham, WA: City of Subdued Excitement | 10/04/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Ustad Zakir Hussain is one of the most famous living master tabla players. He tours and records widely. This CD showcases his drumming.



The sarangi and tanpura are very much in the background, playing the melody and drone of traditional classical music of India. The tabla playing is indeed masterful and brilliant. The music is well-recorded.



Any fan of truly exceptional drumming should enjoy this recording. Fans of traditional Indian music may wish to hear more of the other instruments in the mix.



~heidimo"