Search - Ustad Fateh Ali Khan :: Magic of the Day

Raag Rang

Nehal Masood | USA | 02/02/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"A long awaited album from a master of Patiala gharana. The quality of sound of the accompanying sarangi, tanpura and tabla are of excellent quality. However the voice of the Ustad Fateh Ali Khan sometimes seems to be fading in the background, rather accompanying the various instruments. Ragaas Bhopali and Jaunpuri are interesting in the sense that the Asthai dominates through out the Aalap and jod, and Aantara, where these raags usually blossoms is very short and lacks the assembly of sargam. Like traditional Patiala style of gayki the Zarb and Sum of tabla beats (taal) are powerful. Sargam overall seems to be somewhat flat. This is a good album for listeners of realively light classical hindustani music. I think Ustad Fateh Ali Khan could have done more justice with the jist of Thaats and Raags if he would have selected one or two Raags. Bhimplasi and Darbari have quite complex vaadi and samvaadi, difficult to deliver in 15-20 minutes, and with relatively short Taraana. Bols are excellent and traditional. Overall its a good CD for someone more interested in rather fast dhurpad gayki."

Ustad Fateh Ali Khan

Anantha Aiyyer | Albany | 07/31/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If Ustad Fateh Ali Khan is one of your favorite Hindustani classical singers, then like me you are probably frustrated by the paucity of commercially available recordings! Naturally, I was only eager to add "Magic of the day" to my collection. Though the quality of the recording is less than satisfactory, Khansaheb's voice (albeit a bit faint!) makes you overlook the shortcomings! Ustad-ji's rendition of the ragas are wonderful. In particular, I liked the way he presents ragas Bhoopali and Bhimpalasi. For a more informed review, do read the notes by Mr. Masood!"