Alice Coltrane: Om Namah Shivaya – A Multidimensional Journey
Alice Coltrane, born Alice McLeod on January 27, 1937, was an American jazz musician, composer, and spiritual leader. She was the wife of the legendary jazz saxophonist John Coltrane and is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Her album “Om Namah Shivaya” is a testament to her spiritual journey and her mastery of the Indian ragas. Let’s delve into the various dimensions of this remarkable album.
1. The Spiritual Aspect
“Om Namah Shivaya” is a Sanskrit mantra that translates to “I bow to Shiva.” This mantra is central to Alice Coltrane’s spiritual beliefs and is the foundation of her music. The album was recorded in 1971, a time when she was deeply involved in the Hindu spiritual movement. The music on this album is a reflection of her devotion and her quest for spiritual enlightenment.
2. The Music
The album features a blend of jazz, Indian classical music, and Hindu devotional music. Alice Coltrane’s unique approach to music allowed her to create a sound that was both familiar and groundbreaking. The album consists of four tracks, each exploring a different raga and mantra.
| Track | Title | Raga | Mantra |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Om Namah Shivaya | Bageshree | Om Namah Shivaya |
| 2 | Transcendence | Shankarabharanam | Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya |
| 3 | Universal Love | Shree | Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya |
| 4 | Universal Love (Part 2) | Shree | Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya |
The album opens with “Om Namah Shivaya,” a powerful and meditative piece that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The track “Transcendence” features a beautiful melody that is both haunting and uplifting. “Universal Love” and “Universal Love (Part 2)” are two of the most popular tracks on the album, showcasing Alice Coltrane’s ability to create music that is both spiritual and accessible.
3. The Collaborators
Alice Coltrane was not alone in her musical endeavors. The album features a talented group of musicians, including her son Ravi Coltrane on saxophone, her daughter Ravi Coltrane on piano, and her husband John Coltrane on piano. The collaboration between these musicians created a unique and cohesive sound that is both powerful and beautiful.
4. The Legacy
“Om Namah Shivaya” has left a lasting impact on the music world. The album has been praised for its innovation, its spiritual depth, and its beautiful melodies. Alice Coltrane’s work has inspired countless musicians and has helped to bridge the gap between jazz and Indian classical music.
In conclusion, “Om Namah Shivaya” is a remarkable album that showcases Alice Coltrane’s musical genius and her spiritual journey. The album’s blend of jazz, Indian classical music, and Hindu devotional music creates a sound that is both unique and beautiful. It is a testament to her dedication to her faith and her love for music.
