By: Chiara Accardi
The beauty of the world lies in the diversity of its people, and the same holds true for music. This universal truth is beautifully exemplified in Dhruv Ghanekar‘s latest musical masterpiece, “Voyage 2.” Released on June 27, 2024, this ambitious 10-track album is a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity, seamlessly blending Indian folk traditions with global rhythms. It’s a musical journey that transcends boundaries, bringing together voices from across India and instrumentalists from around the world in a harmonious fusion that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
Dhruv Ghanekar, a name synonymous with musical innovation in India, has been pushing the boundaries of sound for over 25 years. This Mumbai-based composer, songwriter, producer, and guitarist has an impressive track record that includes collaborations with international artists like Richard Bona, Raul Midon, and Ustad Zakir Hussain. His versatility shines through in his work across various mediums – from composing numerous commercials to producing chart-topping Bollywood hits like “Bombay Boys” and “Dhaakad.”
But Ghanekar‘s influence extends beyond his musical compositions. As one of the founding partners of blueFrog, he played a crucial role in kickstarting India’s indie music revolution. His innovative spirit has earned him numerous accolades, including over two dozen international awards, such as Cannes Lions, D&AD, and The One Show. In 2019, he was even commissioned by the Indian government to score the world’s largest 3D mapped installation show, “Gandhi Yatra,” a 35-minute musical on the life of Mahatma Gandhi.
Now, with “Voyage 2,” Ghanekar is making waves once again. This album isn’t just another release – it’s India’s entry to the Grammy Awards in multiple categories, including Global Music Performance, Global Music Album, and Best Arrangement. The album is a powerful tribute to the rich cultural heritage of India’s Indigenous, Tribal, and folk communities, serving as a reminder of their crucial role in preserving the nation’s diversity and wisdom.
Photo Courtesy: Dhruv Ghanekar / @dhruvg
“Voyage 2” has already made a significant impact in the music world. In its first week at college radio, the album was the #2 Most Added at World, with seven stations listing it as an official World add. These stations include WDWN in Auburn, NY, WRRG in River Grove, IL, WWUH in West Hartford, CT, CJLO in Montreal, QC, KGLT in Bozeman, MT, WCSF in Joliet, IL, and core station KCSB in Santa Barbara, CA. Additionally, the album was added to the Top 30 charts at KLKT in Lockhart, TX (#2) and WDBM in East Lansing, MI (#29), and made its debut on the World chart at core station KXLU in Los Angeles, CA (#7). This broad recognition across various platforms underscores the album’s global appeal and its resonance with a diverse audience.
What sets “Voyage 2” apart is its unique concept – it’s a celebration of women in folk music, with all vocalists on the 10-track album being women. Each track is a testament to the strength and spirit of Indian women who, despite societal challenges, continue to be driving forces of positive transformation. From the vibrant “Nacho” featuring the iconic Rajasthani folk singer Ila Arun, to “Deuri” showcasing the powerhouse vocals of Kalpana Patowary from Assam, the album is a rich tapestry of India’s diverse musical traditions.
Ghanekar‘s collaborators on this album read like a who’s who of the music industry. The dynamic bassist Mohini Dey, ace drummer Gino Banks, and percussionist Taufiq Qureshi are just a few of the talented instrumentalists featured. International artists like Tim Lefebvre, a noted bass guitarist, also lend their expertise to the project. The result is a truly global sound that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in music.
What’s particularly fascinating about “Voyage 2” is how it came together. In the post-Covid world, Ghanekar embraced the new normal of remote collaboration. “Half of the collaborators are artists that I have worked with before and the other half are new connections,” he reveals. This approach allowed him to work with talented artists from across the globe – from Costa Rica to Boston, Paris to Denver, and Nashville to New York City – all while assembling the album in his Mumbai studio.
If you’re a fan of world music or simply appreciate the artistry behind expertly crafted tunes, “Voyage 2” is a must-listen. The album’s production quality is exceptional, with each track meticulously arranged and mixed to perfection. From the drum and bass-infused Sanskrit shlokas in “Suprabhatam” to the fusion of Rajasthani folk with African pop in “Charkha,” every song offers a unique auditory experience.
“Voyage 2” is now available on all major streaming platforms. Give it a listen and immerse yourself in this celebration of cultural diversity and women’s empowerment. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite global sound!
Stream “Voyage 2“: https://open.spotify.com/album/6effFXpDdti8nGW6FFCKch
Connect with Dhruv Ghanekar
Published By: Aize Perez
