On
Remember Shakti, jazz guitarist
John McLaughlin returns to one of his chief inspirations -- classical Indian music -- by re-forming his '70s group
Shakti. Original members
Zakir Hussain (tabla) and
Vikku Vinayakram (ghatam) return, joined by
Hariprasad Chaurasia on the bansuri (Indian flute).
Remember Shakti has a more meditative, fluid feel than the percussive work of the original group, but
McLaughlin's subtle, hypnotic guitar work bridges
Shakti's past and present.
Remember Shakti's double-disc length gives the group ample time to explore the intricacies of compositions like "The Wish," "Chandrakauns," and the hour-plus "Mukti." An emotionally rich, musically accomplished album,
Remember Shakti reunites a unique group of players. ~ Heather Phares