Explorations (Recorded Live At Calcutta)

Notes on back sleeve: "Exploring" is perhaps the most operative word in jazz. From is inception it has been a music of constant search and change. At no point will a jazzman say "I've arrived. This is the best sound ever." from ragtime to Dixieland, through Swing, Bebop, Cool, Hard Bop, Jazz-rock to the avantgarde music of the 70's, jazz has never stopped growing. It has shown the continuity, dynamism and abundance which are hallmarks of this kind of music. JAZZ has long ceased to be exclusively American music. Drawing on native classical and folk traditions into th blues and swing has now come into being. Some of the most innovative groups in America, such as "Weather Report" are led by European jazzmen. Several experiments by foreign musician with fusion of Indian 'ragas' with jazz have been attempted in the past. For example the Hungarian Guitarist Gabor Szobo; John Mclaughlin with Shakti; Buddy Rock with Alla Rakha comprise a few of many such innovators. Louis Banks, Pan Crain and Braz Gonsalves are undoubtedly be best Indian jazz musicians in the country today and when they draw the classical and folk roots of their own country, the sound is original and adds a further dimension to this international music. All the three has maestros in their respective fields for over two decades now and their power of innovation is unique and their creativity exemplary. Apart from the ballads, standards, funk'n jazz a small section has been devoted to a synthesis with Indian music using Indian instruments. This album, recored live at Kalamandir, Calcutta, is definitely going to be a landmark in their progress of integration of Indian and Western cultures - both powerful and influencing.