Music Review: Winds of Samsara

What do Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, an Indian composer of melodies, a virtuoso South African flautist and over 120 musicians from five continents have in common? The album Winds of Samsara, which brought together Wouter Kellerman and Bengaluru-based Ricky Kej and went on to win Best New Age Album at the Grammys this year. Both musicians are inspired by these iconic personalities and have created songs inspired by them.The record starts slow with Mahatma, inspired by the father of our nation, Mahatma Gandhi, of course. Among other political references are Madiba and The Long Road — tributes to late activist Nelson Mandela. New Earth Calling is a powerful flute melody, backed by synths various ancient instruments. Crystal Moon is light and carefree, featuring a steel string instrument and flute sounds. Heaven Is Here has a pleasant hint of pop with vocals mixed to perfection. Eyes Of Wonder And Grace has a dazzling piano segment by Fiona Joy. Remembrance (Greensleeves) sticks out like a store thumb. Chopin’s Nocturne brings it to a Western classical-tinged end. This is neither an Indian album nor a South African one. It’s new age music that crosses cultural and geographical boundaries. It is the kind of album you can listen to while reading a good book at home, lounging on a day off or on a long drive when you want intellectual stimulation.