MusicTibet.com

Namgyal Lhamo — The Diva rises

Namgyal Lhamo: the rising Diva

By Reese Silverstone

VIENNA, Austria, 8 September 2007 — Tibetan music to western audiences has often symbolised meditative mindscapes and spirituality, often luring them into experiencing the mystical with the appeal of its otherworldly chanting and sound.

And then in a world where an ancient culture is trying to survive against all odds comes a singer with a petite frame, powerhouse personality and an explosive voice to create music that is a perfect blend of an ancient lost world sound gliding along in parallel to upbeat, chic and energetic club grooves.

By preserving the traditional core of Tibet (PURE) to transporting its international presence to the most contemporary of platforms with all it's flavour intact, Namgyal Lhamo's latest albums are a real treat.

Netherlands based Namgyal Lhamo, a multi-talented traditional Tibetan singer and performer has broken rules and expanded perception to create two new albums which were released in France and the rest of Europe this month. After receiving rave reviews in India, Namgyal Lhamo's other offering PURE — a wonderfully crafted album with traditional sound is due for a simultaneous release.

"The Enchanted Land" is filled with energy. From the opening "Changkha", an exotic mountain song — Lu genre; sung to almost near perfect levels, is like Van Halen meets vintage music. The mind blowing "Pangyan Methok" is toned to perfection with a groove that is bound to set the dance floor ablaze. The entire album is without the usually clichés that tend to dog Popular Asian sound and unnecessary gimmicks, leaving the listener craving for more.

"Pure" could not have been better. All nine songs on the album are real and alive with a traditional Tibetan feel. Its presentation is minimalistic and screams "less is more".

The undertones of Namgyal Lhamo's singing on both the albums is a testimony to this ex-TIPA, performing artiste's command over her craft and her immense talent and stature.

Not to be missed.

Namgyal Lhamo was the winner of the Best Female Singer in the Tibetan Music Awards 2007. — Ed.