Solo performer: Nawang Khechog.
Includes liner notes by Joan Baez.
Nawang Khechog fled his native Tibet during the Chinese invasion and traveled the world studying meditation and Buddhist philosophy. He has collaborated with Philip Glass, Paul Simon, Michael Stipe, and most notably, Kitaro on two Grammy-nominated albums. RHYTHMS OF PEACE was recorded in 1989 and dedicated to the Dalai Lama of Tibet, upon his receipt of the Nobel Peace prize. Khechog plays bamboo flute on every song, sometimes fortifying his sound with gongs, bells, and drums. The flute is amplified with subtle reverb, evoking wind sweeping through a Himalayan mountainside. "Nobel Peace Laureate, 1989" is underscored with didgeridoo, an instrument native to his adopted homeland of Australia. "Being Kind to All" is a lilting melody reminiscent of traditional shakuhachi flute compositions. "Tibet for Peace Sanctuary" begins as a field recording with rippling waters and birds, only to disappear beneath a powerful flute solo. Khechog's breath passes through his instrument with an assuredness and inner calm that makes RHYTHMS OF PEACE a tranquil experience.
