Nitin Sawhney – London Undersound

No one could blame you for not immediately recognizing the name Nitin Sawhney, especially if you live outside of England. But this incredibly prolific artist is well-known and respected in many circles, and with good reason. Having released eight albums, scored more than 40 films and a handful of video games, composed a symphony for the London Symphony Orchestra, and gained international notoriety as a DJ, producer and composer, his relative fame is very well-earned.

Nitin’s eighth studio album, London Undersound, features the artist’s characteristic “worldly” sound as well as guest spots from some very diverse artists like Natty, Imogen Heap and Paul McCartney. Nitin’s stated goal with this album was to examine London life following the 7/7/05 bombings of London’s mass transit systems. The city he once knew has been forever changed, and London Undersound is a tribute to what it was and a look ahead at what will be.

The album starts out with what may be its strongest and most moving track, “Days of Fire.” London singer/songwriter Natty’s smooth but impassioned vocals bring to life the day that changed the city forever. He leads the listener down the streets and through the tunnels, past fleeing commuters and traffic jams. Nitin’s words coming from Natty’s mouth describe a profound sadness at what London used to be and what it became since that day. The next track, “October Daze,” features the lovely vocals of Tina Grace, who has collaborated with Nitin before on many of his songs. Her light and airy voice is the perfect offset to the simple bass-and-drums-driven composition.

Imogen Heap lends her vocals to the next song, “Bring it Home.” Not as strong as some of the other tracks by far, this one definitely has that characteristic electronica feel, with lots of repetition and a landscape, rather than portrait, feel to it. Sir Paul McCartney features on “My Soul,” an odd but perfect blend of British and Indian pop. The arrangement on this track is flawless and rich, adding a great deal of depth to the simple lyrics. One of the most compelling tracks on this album is “Shadowland,” featuring Ojos de Brujo. It’s a surprising fusion of Spanish and Indian sounds, and it’s impossible to keep from moving when you hear it. It’s almost New-Age sounding, but with a sharp sensible undertone that keeps it from going over the top.

Directly following “Shadowland” is “Daybreak,” a happily optimistic song featuring vocals from Faheem Mazhar. The arrangement is sparse and the vocals are little more than staccato touches of sound – the cheerily nonsensical expression of happiness. It’s a sweet departure from the rest of the songs on the album. The dark and sexy “Transmission” is one of the strongest songs, with smoky vocals from, again, Tina Grace. “Firmament” and “Charu Keshi Rain” round out the worldly sound and bring the listener back to the present. “Firmament” leaves me feeling calm and hopeful and has found its way onto my yoga playlist. “Charu Keshi Rain,” featuring the incomparable Anoushka Shankar on sitar, is the perfect ending to this unique and incredibly varied album.

“World” music carries some very negative connotations with it, but Nitin Sawhney proves that the meshing of many musical cultures is a beautiful thing. His perfect understanding of composition makes his music an almost visible, tangible force.

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Tagged as: Electronica, London, world

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