Liquid Reality
AGS, 2025
9/10
A really unique effort that combines Indian Classical sounds with hybrid electric guitar from Anupam Shobhakar, the 7 fusion tracks welcome plenty of guests, too.
“Anjaneya” opens with a distinct haze, where Shobhakar’s guitar acrobatics are met with wild keys, and “Ladders To The Sky” follows with the soaring, wordless vocals that suit the worldly melodies and swirling dynamics.
Moving into the middle, the playful vocals of “Formless” are complemented by firm keys, exploratory drums and Gumbi Ortiz’s animated percussion, while “La Danse du Bonheur” offers a busy album highlight of fascinating and cultured song craft.
“Home” exits and is a moment of serenity via the soothing guitar and waves of colorful, timeless beauty thanks to Shobhakar’s inimitable guitar playing.
A highly technical version of prog-rock that embraces both western and eastern ideas, the contributions from Utsav Lal (piano), Ben Parag (vocals), Satoshi Takeishi (drums), Swaminathan SelvaGanesh (vocals, ghatam, kanjeera, mridangam), Santiago Leibson (piano), Ona Kirei (vocals) and Chris Saravino (drums) won’t go unnoticed, either.
Travels well with: Juana Luna- Canciones En Blanco Y Negro; Kenny Kosek- Twisted Sage