
Buy Mukti's celebrated debut album here:
"A sumptous feast for the soul..."
Light of the Sun
Departing from a more 'traditional' kirtan sound, Light of the Sun reflects diverse elements likea highly polished musical gem. Like John Mclaughlin and his seminal world fusion band Shakti in the 70s, co-songwriter Donald Fontowitz merges his Indian-influenced, flamenco guitar with Ramana Erickson's tabla rhythms, creating an earthy backdrop to lead singer and lyricist Prajna Vieira's ethereal vocals and piano. Prajna's voice has been compared to that of kirtan pioneer Snatam Kaur in purity and presence, but her musical influences include Western artists like Tori Amos and Joni Mitchell - women singer-songwriters with an independent streak. Beyond artistic expression, however, the purpose of Mukti's music differs that of most contemporary artists; the songs on Light of the Sun communicate a deep longing for union with the sacred. As Prajna says, 'We set out to make music that would uplift, inspire and bring peace to people's hearts.'
Departing from a more 'traditional' kirtan sound, Light of the Sun reflects diverse elements likea highly polished musical gem. Like John Mclaughlin and his seminal world fusion band Shakti in the 70s, co-songwriter Donald Fontowitz merges his Indian-influenced, flamenco guitar with Ramana Erickson's tabla rhythms, creating an earthy backdrop to lead singer and lyricist Prajna Vieira's ethereal vocals and piano. Prajna's voice has been compared to that of kirtan pioneer Snatam Kaur in purity and presence, but her musical influences include Western artists like Tori Amos and Joni Mitchell - women singer-songwriters with an independent streak. Beyond artistic expression, however, the purpose of Mukti's music differs that of most contemporary artists; the songs on Light of the Sun communicate a deep longing for union with the sacred. As Prajna says, 'We set out to make music that would uplift, inspire and bring peace to people's hearts.'
Light of the Sun CD is produced by award-winning producer Ben Leinbach (known for his outstanding collaborations with Jai Uttal and Deva Premal, among others) and featuring the incredible guest performances by Manose on bansuri flute and two-time Grammy-award-winning violinist David Balakrishnan (founding member of the Turtle Island Quartet).
Lyrics & Stories
The light of the sun, the moon, and the stars shines bright:
The melody of love swells forth, and the rhythm of love's detachment beats the time.
Day and night, the chorus of music fills the heavens;
and Kabîr says, "My Beloved One gleams like the lightning flash in the sky."
Kabir, 1440—1518

