In early 2005, mus1k.com released a unique and powerful CD. The CD is the result of Indi Kaur working closely with her producer, MaJiKer and powerful lyricist Harjit Singh. What we have today is the blend of refreshing, soulful and funky music that touch, move and inspire that special place in everyone’s hearts. What is it about each track that affects anyone that listens to it?
The first and penultimate tracks of the CD are ideal mantras for meditation – the sound is tranquil and peaceful, meditative yet contemporary in the way the words have been structured. An additional final track (seven) is also provided for longer mediation periods.
The second track of the CD outlines the story of Baba Deep Singh, a great Sikh hero. Initial wording such as, ‘Waheguru's light gives him this glow’ immediately provides vivid imagery. A fusion of traditional instruments, modern keyboards, extended synthesised vocals, Indi’s harmony’s and quick start and ending shuffles gives the track the quality of travel to parallel the associated story of the journey of courage for freedom.
When I first heard the third and title track, ‘Keep on Walking’ I found that it was both uplifting and inspiring. It communicated the way Guru Nanak worked to bring peace, love and harmony to a world caught-up in superstition and inequality. The soulful nature of the track is climaxed again and again with the words, ‘he is shining, and he is shining with the rising sun’. The chorus is made-up of echoed harmonies linked to the words Waheguru, meaning wonderful lord.
The forth track entitled, ‘A Khalsa Woman’ (Mai Bhago) comprises of a funky urban beat. otherwise known as drum ‘n ‘bass. The song gives credit to Mai Bhago who back in 1705 enthused and energised both Sikh men and women to return to battle against the Mughul forces. As the Sikh forces made their way back, groups of Sikhs from various villages along the way joined them in support of the great Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
The track entitled ‘Sacrifice’ communicates the greatness of the Sikhs tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh. It commences with marching drums combined with what sounds like orchestral snare drums. The track then settles into a steady drum n’ bass beat which help deliver the story – we learn about how the Guru’s entire family were sacrificed for the cause of freedom. The chorus is simple yet effective gradually yet seamlessly ends with a climactic musical amalgam of western harmonies and traditional lyrical appreciation of Waheguru.
To summarise, this CD consists of very seven different tracks each entailing an original mood and musical vibe. In addition there are three different meditation tracks for those who wish to relax. This CD is highly recommended for Sikhs and non-Sikhs, as well as institutions concerned with teaching religion in schools.
