John McLaughlin - Remember Shakti [Box Set] (CD)

All Music Guide

On Remember Shakti, jazz guitarist John McLaughlin returns to one of his chief inspirations -- classical Indian music -- by reforming his '70s group Shakti. Original members Zakir Hussein (tabla) and T.H. 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 works. 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. [The expanded reissue is a six-disc set that includes videos, extra songs, and live material.]

- Heather Phares, All Music Guide