In his book “The Art of Happiness” (1998), the Dailai Lama says: “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” This universal truth is the guiding star behind Sangeeta Kaur’s new album. “Compassion” is a bold and unique release that pushes genre boundaries and makes us yet again rethink what New Age music is all about. It is without a doubt one of 2019’s finest and most exciting releases.
Sangeeta Kaur is a Vietnamese American trained opera singer, mantra singer, producer and 2016 Global Peace Song Awards winner. She earned a Bachelors of Music degree in Opera Performance from California State University of Long Beach and a Masters Degree in Vocal Performance from The Boston Conservatory of Music. With great honor, she has performed in venues such as Segerstrom Center for the Arts, MUSCO Performing Arts Center, The Broad Stage, Sydney Opera House, and many others. Sangeeta’s previous albums are “Niguma” (2016), “Ascension“, Niguma, Vol. 2 and “Mirrors“.
Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha
The album opener is called “Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha.” It starts slowly. We are greeted by Sangeeta’s wonderful voice and layers of well-crafted synths. The song gently rises in intensity, and it is impossible not to be amazed by its beauty and power. Listening to the conclusion, with its choir, strings, and drums feels witnessing something divine unfold. Bravo!
After such a magnificent opener, “Rise Up” gives us time to breathe and recollect. Sangeeta is backed by harp, strings and an angelic choir. Yet again we are amazed by an impressive build-up; rising from the quiet introduction is a conclusion of epic proportions. Its larger-than-life atmosphere is something that you just have to experience for yourself. If you are sitting, don’t be surprised if you feel an urge to rise up.
The latest episode of Dream Mixtape is dedicated to Sangeeta Kaur & Compassion:
Transcendence
With “Transcendence” the album shifts gear. It is a thoughtful piece with choir and a violin. Sangeeta’s mix of East and West, of opera and New Age music – which Transcendence is an example of – is inspired and creative. “May the Long Time Sun” continues this impression. It makes other releases look grey and colorless in comparison.
Talking about colors; “Song of Compassion” is a rare treat on a New Age music release. Soprano Hila Plitmann is terrific, delivering a phenomenal performance. Compassion is a complex emotion. It is not simply about giving, but caring with every fiber of your body. The song expresses this feeling wonderfully.
Om Vajra Sattva Hum
My favorite song on the album is “Om Vajra Sattva Hum.” The 7 minutes long piece feels like an album within an album. Slowly it gains momentum as more and more voices join in. The song is as complex as it is beautiful. There are many layers of sound to appreciate. Notice especially the choir and the many singers involved in this project. So many people share their talent; the Hungarian Studio Orchestra, Hungarian Studio Choir and a Los Angeles-based choir, The Sterling Ensemble.
“We Are One” is a thought-provoking song. From its atmosphere, we can deduce that this oneness demands something from us. It ends in something very close to a scream. “We Are One” is a wakeup call for humanity. We need to be one, to act as one.
Sa Re Sa Sa
The dark atmosphere is not to last. “Sa Re Sa Sa” sounds almost like a lullaby, warm and comforting. The grand orchestral arrangement is nothing short of impressive. On “Voices and Crystals” we get another performance by Hila Plitmann, as one of the voices. It is a meditative piece. Close your eyes, and you’ll be transported to another dimension. Sangeeta’s singing is lovely and inspired as always.
“Voices of Compassion” ends the album on a high note. The choir sings a hopeful melody – and, in doing so, proving that if we only work together and show compassion, this world will be a harmonious place.
In conclusion: “Compassion” by Sangeeta Kaur is close to a masterpiece and without a doubt one of 2019’s most exquisite New Age music titles. Sangeeta is on par with artists such as Ricky Kej, White Sun and Opium Moon. It shows the importance of compassion and how vital this emotion is.
Without compassion, this world is doomed. That’s the most important message of all.
Score: 96/100 – See my scoring policy
Visit sangeetakaurmusic.com for more music samples and information.