“In view of the great popularity of Hatha-Yoga in the West, other fine forms or branches of Yoga have become eclipsed. Among them is Bhakti-Yoga, which has a far longer history than the Yoga of “force” (hatha). In fact, the path of devotion (bhakti) has its roots in the mystical ritualism of the ancient Vedas. These archaic Sanskrit scriptures are now thought to be well over four thousand years old.”

-- Georg Feuerstein, Ph.D., Founder-director of the Yoga Research and Education Center

This CD is a collection of ancient chants and songs of Spiritual India, whose origins many of which date back to time immemorial. They are bound by one similar thread, that of devotion and an intense desire to taste the bliss of yoga, or union with God as understood through the ancient teachings of the Vedic scriptures of India . They are in the Vaishnava tradition which practices bhakti, the art of spirituality through devotion. The CD was recorded after a career as a western vocalist. There has since been intense studying of Hindustani vocals and thus Avatar Sessions marks the end of a style and in many ways a vocal 'life', a progression for which I am most inspired and grateful. Future recordings will be able to draw from both styles to use with creative and appropriate application.

Each song has a unique arrangement, allowing each song to dictate its’ own expression. As a result, traditional instruments such as sarod, mrdanga, kartalas, violin, flute and harmonium share the stage with electronic beats. The Vedas often say, “the details may change, but the essence remains.” It has been my great pleasure to contemporize these truly timeless songs. The desire is to see throngs of people dancing at nightclubs or listening to the radio in drive time while enjoying songs that uplift the spirit and feed the soul.

Below are in depth description of the songs and their lyrics to help you delve deeply into their meaning. I hope you enjoy these songs in praise of Durga, Krishna , Siva, Radha, Ganesh etc and share in the serene pleasure that arises from singing the glories of God, no matter what spiritual tradition from which you may come.

Shanti Om
Sri