Yoga is more than a meditative practice of movement to achieve masterful flexibility. Sound yoga, called Nada Yoga (or in its earlier form, Shabda Yoga), uses sound and vibration for healing and spiritual fulfillment. In the three discs of this box set (also available separately), Russill Paul shares three approaches to the yoga of vocal sound. His singing voice is pleasantly resonant, often intensely rich with overtones, as in the "Shree Ma" chant to Kali. 

Sensitive instrumental arrangements combine authentic Indian instruments with guitars, synth, and nature sounds to create the ambiance of an ancient temple brought into modern times. Shabda Yoga, the oldest of the Hindu vocal traditions, holds that phrases (mantras) and individual syllables -- aum being the most familiar -- are inherently sacred when chanted, above and beyond their literal meaning. Shakti Yoga takes the sensual tantric approach: Sound vibrations stimulate the bodily flows of energy, called chakras. The melodious chants and invocations of Bhava Yoga are sung to express the rapturous emotional and spiritual devotion of the chanter.

 Russill Paul's detailed liner notes tell the rich history of the practice, offer easy-to-follow lyrics and translations, and include dance or movement instructions where appropriate. Never dryly instructional, this music is three-dimensional and hypnotically delicious. Even if you don't chant along, the music will transport you to the paisley worlds of the soul.

Carol Wright