Album Notes

Guru Dev is the new creation of SiriOm Singh, spiritual teacher and Kundalini Yoga instructor, percussionist and vocalist, teaching and performing in The USA and internationally.

As in his previous album, Travel The Light, Guru Dev (Divine Teacher in Sanskrit) combines mantras and original lyrics with music inspired by many world traditions. The mantras in Guru Dev are from the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs, and praise the divine spirit as it manifests in our life: The Heart Song (track 1) uses the sacred sound AAAH to open the heart, Aad Gurai Nameh (track 3) is traditionally used as a protection chant, and Ra Ma Da Sa (track 8) is a healing mantra.
The original lyrics, by SiriOm Singh and Ayala Shimelman, speak of the universal quest for meaning and the unity of all – people and trees, body and mind, individual spirit and the universe.

Guru Dev was recorded live in concert, with audience participation, which creates a unique chant experience. The original music, which is inspired by Jazz, Reggae, Motown, and many world traditions, is lively, energetic and happy.

The large group of musicians accompanying SiriOm is as diverse as his music: Theo Thwing – lead guitar and vocals and Autin Wright – drum, percussions and vocal, are regular members of his band Anahat. Jazz musicians Darla (bass guitar) and Rich (guitar) Tarpinian collaborated with him on Travel The Light. Singer/songwriter and kirtan artist Robin Reneé joined him on harmonium and vocals, Dan Johnson on tabla, Joe Bezek on alto sax, Gene Tunney on harmonica, Philadelphia Jazz musician and member of the Sun Ra Arkestra Fred Adams on trumpet and Israeli Arik Levy of the hip-hop band Coolooloosh on soprano sax. Together they create a spiritual caravan which manifests itself throughout the album and reaches its peak in Anahat Groove (track 9), an improvisation inspired by the sounds of the Middle East, Africa, and North American traditions.

SiriOm’s music had been described as “a beautifully unique mélange that is informed by many influences, and does credit to them all”, as “pure spirit and honest singing coming straight from the heart”, “rich, soulful, heartfelt, inspiring, original and authentic” “inspiring happiness, joy and peace”, and “a truly participatory chant experience”. His wish is that it creates love and happiness whenever it is listened to.