Ravi Shankar has been described as one of the greatest musicians on the planet. This record, one of his classic World Pacific albums, clearly lends credence to that statement. But the thing that makes this record interesting is the fact that it contains a unique fusion of Shankar and his group performing with respected jazz flutist Paul Horn. It's an extremely gratifying combination, and Horn plays with a true jazzman's restraint on the five short selections that open the record. The second half is devoted to one long (20 minute) traditional raga, "Raga Multani," in which Shankar's awesome ability and stamina is matched only by that of his ensemble, especially Alla Rakha on tabla. Essential for any fan of Shankar or Indian music. Awesome.

This CD invokes the presence of the divine mother. I listend to this CD while at a week long silent meditation retreat. It filled me with a gentle joy, peace and immense loving kindness. It is very calming, gentle and nurturing. It features the following songs: Ganesh Invocation, Devi Prayer and Lalitha Ashtotram, which is a Sanskrit mantra of the 108 sacred names of the mother divine. ~ Brad VanAuken

The Complete Monterey Pop Festival arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Criterion. The three-disc set includes exclusive new video interviews with director D.A. Pennebaker and Lou Adler, producer of the Monterey International Pop Festival; vintage interviews; audio commentary; original promotional materials; archival interview with Pete Townshend; audio commentary by music critic and historian Charles Shaar Murray; two audio commentaries featuring music historian Peter Guralnick; and more.