In each of Mickey Hart’s albums, the artist submerges himself within a concept and reinvents himself through the project dujour. Hart’s rhythmic journey as recorded in the studio has created some duds and crafted some gems. Fortunately, the Diga Rhythm Band produced one of his jewels. In this project, Hart’s focus was on the sounds of India. That written, vibes and marimbas are the primary musical instruments on “Diga” -neither of which are Indian and no attempt is made to have them play Indian melodies. The absence of sitars on such a project almost seems odd. Unless the listener is expecting classical Indian sounds, this isn’t necessarily a drawback. With respect to authenticity, Mickey Hart always produces his albums in a way that makes ethnic music more accessible to Western ears. In other words, this isn’t Indian music, it’s really World Music. When it came to the sounds of India, Hart’s focus was on rhythm; the tablas are the main vehicle. ‘Razooli’ sounds like it could be an outtake from the Grateful Dead’s “Blues for Allah.” ‘Sweet Sixteen’ is so sugary, it’s difficult not to describe it as ‘World Pop.’ Jerry Garcia plays ‘Happiness Is Drumming’ as if it were a prototype version of ‘Fire on the Mountain.’ In terms of rhythm, ‘Magnificent Sevens’ is the most accomplished composition. The song showcases the group’s improvisation within the Diga Rhythm Band’s most challenging arrangement. As a drum album, the percussion is stellar thanks in part to Zakir Hussain’s nimble hands. Easy to listen to, “Diga” delivers Indian infused World Music. —The Delite Rancher
