SVF Music unveils RNT Project Chapter 2, a tribute to Tagore's legacy on his birth anniversary

The compilation, dropped at 11 am on May 7 on SVF Music’s YouTube and various audio platforms, offers a modern twist to the traditional Rabindra Sangeet through a unique and memorable musical journey.

(From L to R) Amrita Singh, Antaraa Bhataacharya, Arindom, Dipannita Acharya | Photo courtesy: SVF

RNT Project Chapter 2 features an ensemble of 11 carefully selected compositions by the legendary Rabindranath Tagore, under the direction of the celebrated music director Arindom.

This project amalgamates international musical influences with Tagore's lyrical poetry, crafted by Arindom alongside a talented cadre of musicians from across the globe. This blend of diverse sounds introduces a new level of modernism and freshness to Tagore’s timeless works, aiming to appeal to both connoisseurs and new listeners alike.

The album presents compelling performances by esteemed artists of contemporary significance. Arindom eloquently delved into the highlights of each track, providing vivid elucidation on the underlying motivations behind their creation.

(From L to R) Sanjeeta Bhattacharya, Shirsha Chakraborty, Shyamoshree Saha, Somlata Acharyya Chowdhury | Photo courtesy: SVF

Renowned Rabindra Sangeet vocalist Jayati Chakraborty brings her unique rendition of "Aaj Jyotsna Raatey" to the album, enhanced by a vintage Horn Section that gracefully envelops the timeless composition in a soft rock rendition, pleasing to the aesthetic senses.

Somlata Acharyya Chowdhury, a pivotal figure in the RNT Project, delivers poignant renditions of "Bhalobashi Bhalobashi" and "Chhinno Patar Shajai Tawroni," each offering unique arrangements ranging from classical guitar fusion to emotive storytelling.

“Bhalobashi Bhalobashi” is the only ballad-like arrangement in the album. Steps more into the space of tabla flute and classical guitar fusion.

Whereas, for "Chhinno Patar Shajai Tawroni”, Arindom, imagined an accident situation where one partner comes to reach normalcy. The intro vocal idea, chilling arrangement and Somlata singing creates all magic and drama.

Arindom himself takes center stage with two tracks, "Anondolokey" and "Amar Mon Maney Na," showcasing his prowess as both a musician and vocalist.

(From L to R) Suchona Shely, Jayati Chakraborty, Tani Muni | Photo courtesy: SVF

"Anondolokey" embodies a meditative state with influences from Chinese/Mongolian flute melodies and Tuvan vocal harmonies, while "Amar Mon Maney Na" draws inspiration from Scottish melodies, incorporating elements such as Scottish-style guitars, Kazoo, Cello, Hurdy Gurdy, and Scottish flutes to evoke a rustic ambiance.

Amrita Singh, sister of Arijit Singh and a former collaborator on the RNT Project, joins forces with the popular duo Tani-Muni, emerging stars from a reality music show, to lend their voices to the opening track "Phooley Phooley."

The concept here was to infuse the Sorani/Kurdish style instrument Qanun, played in a more Armenian manner rather than strictly Arabic, evoking a traditional sense of children learning the song from their elders in an outdoor setting.

Independent musician Antaraa Bhataacharya adds her distinct sound to "Mawmo Chittey," focusing on traditional Rabindra Sangeet elements, particularly the dance-oriented style. 

Shyamoshree Saha, known for captivating audiences with "Palash" from SVF Music, returns with "Shedin Dujoney," a cinematic and experimental piece portraying a musical chase sequence between two unrelated characters amidst a heist scenario, characterized by afro basslines, Berlin underground-style compositions, and high-energy electric guitars.

The album also features folk fusion performances by Suchona Shely and Dipannita Acharya in "Tumi Khushi Thako," presenting a rustic Bengal imagery with traditional instruments like the madol and authentic vocal designs. 

Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Sanjeeta Bhattacharya contributes "Orey Grihobashi," the sole electronic track enriched by the flavors of dotara, sarangi, and flute, complementing Sanjeeta's commanding vocals with lively claps and joyful rhythms.

Lastly, Shirsha Chakraborty showcases her talent in "Aaj Nahi Nahi Nidra," a nostalgic return to old-school rock infused with country-style elements and featuring a captivating lap steel solo theme.

Music Director Arindom expressed his enthusiasm for the new release, stating, " RNT 2 is bold, niche and pure musically. Extreme diversity was there in RNT as well, but RNT 2 articulates the modernisms and coolness to the sound design of Rabindra Sangeet.

"We had around 30 songs from which shortlisted these 11 songs. The album sounds complete dynamically and spectrum wise.