Le Chant Khyal ou l'Art de l'Imagination

Ashwini Bhide-Deshpande is currently one of the leading female artists of North Indian classical vocal music specialising in the genre known as khayal (meaning imagination), an ornamented style that is currently the most dominant form of classical vocal music in India. As the name suggests, khayal is a largely improvised genre requiring tremendous creativity to present a raga (melodic scale for improvisation) uncovering all its nuances alongside lyrics which work for both human and divine love. Bhide-Deshpande is noted for her ability to bring a classical edge to devotional lyrics, which are commonly heard in a folksy format. On this album she glides along with the assured confidence of a maestro. Starting with a deeply spiritual song about the search for a guru and moving on to a number praising the Hindu god Shiva. She also delivers a famous poem by the 15th-century saint-mystic Kabir, who is equally revered by Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs.

As is usual with khayal performances, she concludes on a lighter note with a traditional romantic song that describes a maiden who, despite not applying kohl, has the darkest of eyes. The notes accompanying this album are excellent, albeit rather hefty for the average listener, but a real treat for those who like their music placed in a detailed historical context.