I know this type of content can't come out forever, but as a musician i just adore everything about this series! So amazing to see these fantastic (and underrated in the USA) instruments get more of an audience!
There are over 1,500 different musical instruments around the world. Even if Rob consistently uploads every 2 weeks, that's like 57 more years of content.
Who knows, maybe Rob is on a quest to play every instrument he can get his hands on, and have us watch. I’m always surprised at how easy he picks up these instruments. Imagine this series except it’s Prince hosting. lol
Abhik seems like one of those rare humans where you can't help but smile being around him. Just infectious happiness and love of life. And he seems to love every moment of sharing his music and teaching his craft. S-tier person.
I love how when Abhik was playing the sitar, it had that rich Indian classical sound, but when Rob picked it and played the first thing, it sounded very American folk-ish and still sounded realy good. That was really interesting to listen to. Shows thatthe instrument has applications in other forms of music as well.
It also shows how the sound of an instrument can be heavily influenced by your own cultural and musical vocabulary. I tried to pick up an erhu once and it just sounded like a fiddle when I played it.
I would think a lot of it would have to do with musical reference. What I mean by that is, for improvisational playing, you'll default to familiar sounds you've heard so for Rob it's going to be a lot of that American folk sounds because it's not like he grew up listening to the more Indian/ South Asian style.
C'mon you can't do dirty like that to santoor and sehnai. But without a doubt the most underrated is tabla as it supports every single instrument and never makes the headlines.
For 20 minutes I felt blessed to witness the vanguard of the synthesis of human culture... and it made me grab my guitar and play for a moment. that part is priceless
In hindustani classical music, There is a lot of importance put on 'swar gyan', literally 'note knowledge' which is basically the ability of recognizing each note of the scale. A great example would be listening to singers improvise. They sing notes by their names (sa = do, re=re, ga=mi, fa=fa,etc) so you can tell they're not just singing whatever note comes to mind, but know exactly which notes they're singing).
@@nomnom112 saregama and doremi do not tell you the note name. They give you an idea of relative position. You still don't know what sound/frequency it is. Don't learn music by that method - it is terrible and makes you not understand keys and notes like you don't. Learn the grand staff.
Well it was "minor" but really Phrygian. They were bordering on Wherever I May Roam a few times. Also, Chain Sling by Pain of Salvation was almost played verbatim at 13:08.
@@motherisape or maybe part of them . Indian classical music has its influence on a person's personality and development just as much as the music develops with the musician and not to forget how he/she gives the instrument itself a personality when Played!
Although my brain is about burst into flames trying to understand how the sitar is played, it's one of my favorite instruments to listen to. It conveys so much emotion and depth. Depending on what is beginning played, it sounds as if its crying
@@versus1156 that makes so much sense. I only recently learned about this instrument but it caught my attention because of how much I can feel it emotionally. It is very powerful. So lovely.
Dude, those were some sick jams. And honestly, it seemed so natural and easy. That dude is definitely a pro and you can tell he just loves and lives to play. Amazing stuff. You should totally feature him on a proper track. I dig it. Nice work guys.
Seemed natural and easy because it is natural and easy to improvise on top of a drone. As long as you play the right scale, anything sounds good. Of course this guys knows his stuff, can't deny he's a skilled musician.
As overused as the phrase is, these videos are one of the few things that legitimately restore my faith in humanity. No matter how bad things get, how bleak the world decides to be that day, every time I watch these, they remind me of how much culture and history, how much expression and emotion and joy there is in all corners of the world, all around us, all the time. Then I can calm down for a few moments and feel good about being part of the human race. In spite of everything, I do feel good about most of us. I do love most of you. It's crazy that music can do that. But your videos are proof that everyone can feel it, no matter who we are, no matter where are roots are, no matter what instrument we pick up. That's what makes it work.
Some ancient novels say, one lady in kingdom, bring leaf 🍃 in dead tree by using this instrument…..that’s how magical this instrument is…… I think he is so good and nicely explained to new learners.
I always say that about Rob's educational series about instruments. It truly is wholesome. Just seeing Rob's enjoyment when a professional teaches him about their instrument, and when said professional sees Rob pick it up almost immediately (except say for the sax lol) is enough to get me going for the day.
I have an album for you. A Meeting By the River by Ry Cooder and V.M. Bhatt. V.M. Bhatt plays a mohan veena made from a retrofitted Hawaiian archtop guitar. Think somewhere between a sitar and a lap steel
This is so cool! I began to like sitar music when I first heard The Beatles, incorporate it in the 60s and early 1970s, when I was in high school. Then, later in college I found a cassette that was an "introduction to Sitar music" produced by Ravi Shankar, where he narrates, describing each element of the sitar, chords and notes and each of the drum-like rhythm instruments. He explained that "we should consider it to be like Jazz", and to listen to it with an open mind. I kind of fell in love the sounds and even to this day, in 2023, I still have that cassette, which I play on special occasions. To set the mood, I dim the lights and burn incense. Ravi had such a soothing voice to listen to. I felt like he was guiding me through a meditation. Thanks to You Tube, I have found even more sitar music to "groove" to. Thank you for this video, as I had never seen the instrument explained and demonstrated to this level.
People usually look at me like I’m a weirdo when I say that I listen to the Introduction to Sitar Music from time to time. It’s so relaxing and complex at the same time. Also huge respect to George Harrison for bringing the sitar and some elements of eastern music to rock, his contribution to the guitar techniques and the overall sound of most mainstream 60-70’s music is immeasurable and is very underrated
@@Anonymous-8080 Wow,...really? To have known him, would have been a blessing. (He fathered musician Nora Jones, who has the voice of an angel). His other daughters carry on his musical legacy. One of them performs with Nora Jones, on sitar.
In 2003 I bought a sitar from G. Rosul on eBay for around $500, which was no small fee at age 16. Three weeks later, a huge box arrived from India with every postmark on Earth on its sides. The case smelled like fresh-sawn teak and incense, and held something beautiful inside. An amalgamation of teak and gourd seamlessly joined together, hand-carved bone inlays adorned with swirling patterns of red and blue ink, shiny brass frets, and twenty-one wire strings. With nothing but two books in broken English and a Ravi Shankar LP, I spent my summer vacation teaching myself to play it. I don't regret it. TLDR: If you are thinking of buying one, do it.
me too even though I skip the rest. At least this sponsorship is more of a well-intentioned sponsor and not some corporate shill. I think @Rob Scallon should do what Rick Beato does and set up his own sort of patreon-like option (maybe call it the Electric Shovel Club)... I would much rather support somebody directly than watch ads, and if I want to support somebody I'd rather most of my money goes to the actual person I'm supporting, rather than some middleman like Patreon (or other crowdfunding options) getting a huge cut. Jake's movie is kind of a different situation. he's trying to get funding from a lot of people that maybe haven't seen his previous projects in addition to the people who have. (congratulations again Jake by the way)
Rob, you're channel has progressed from something that was fun and funny to a celebration of music in all its forms and instruments. I've enjoyed being along for the ride and really love the turn things have taken.
@@Pow3llMorgan You don't have to call it "strange" just because it's something you (or the West in general) are not very used to :) although I get where you're coming from
First three minutes and I found myself laughing along with their conversation. It feels so natural and comfortable. Heartwarming. I think that's what lured me into your videos. The genuine laugh and just people enjoying each other's company.
This fella's up there with the legend himself, Mr. Brandon Acker as one of the most pleasant, proficient guests I've seen on this channel. Some genuinely amazing, wholesome content right here
I am at the Bengali couldn’t be happier that I found a Bengali sitar player. American, born and raised and happy to say that the culture and arts that come from West Bengal is represented in this video. Thank you so much for representing my father side of the family.
same (also with my lastname also being chatterji although spelled with an i instead of two e's), I was born and raised in the US and yet it made me so happy once I realized Abhik was Bengali and knowing of course that the most celebrated Sitar player, Ravi Shankar is Bengali I enjoyed this video so much more, especially because my dad used to play sitar music in the car all the time when I was younger and I never would appreciate it.
@@av1421 No one wants to think that. I'm proudly Indian just as I am West Bengali. I just felt glad to see a Bengali Sitar player especially because the Sitar has been incorporated heavily into Bengali music for ages. That's not to say other parts of India didn't play the Sitar too. You don't have to get mad just because us West Bengalis feel represented seeing this video :) Punjabis and Tamils brag all the time once they notice someone *happens* to just have a Punjabi or Tamil lastname, so why can't we at least acknowledge and be happy about the fact this guy is from our home-state? No one claimed to be superior to the rest of India or isolate WB from India. In fact, I hate people who think that the terms "Bangladeshi" and "Bengali" are synonymous, because that implies that Bengalis can never be Indian.
For anyone interested in hearing Western instrumentation blended with Indian classical music, I cannot more highly recommend the album Junun by Shye Ben Tzur, Jonny Greenwood (of Radiohead fame) and the Rajasthan Express. It is a combination of Northern Indian raga, Sufi Islam Qawwali, with lyrics in Hebrew, Hindi, and Urdu. Still remains one of my favorite albums of all time.
Magic Carpet is a folk band from the early 70s that has an awesome lead singer, sitar, acoustic guitar and tabla. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a blend of Indian/western music.
@@AstroDash42 You can listen to Tushar Lall. You'll find him here on youtube. He uses a blend of western and Indian instruments to perform a rendition of some famous tunes from movies like Dark Knight Theme, Interstellar Theme, Pirates of The Caribbean Theme etc.
The sitar is one of my favorite instruments to listen to, and has been since my early childhood. I used to sneak away to the local Hindu temple just to listen to the music, but I've never known anything about it other than "It is from India" and "I love the way it sounds".
@@iwontliveinfear "I used to sneak away to the local Hindu temple just to listen to the music" Elderly hindus will love you for that. Young hindu people aren't that interested in listeing to such music. What a waste.
I've now learned that Sitar is the most metal acoustic instrument. Ngl, it sounded really dope. I'd listen to a metal album with him playing on every tune.
the way Abhik Mukherjee times when to pop out a riff, the way he articulates it and the notes he chooses makes it very apparent that he is well-versed in improvisation on his instrument. I would imagine that he definitely evokes frequent Eastern versions of the 'stank face' from his band mates during a jam session
What a pleasure and privilege to witness two masters unite in mutual respect and musical synchrony. Together, you achieved stunning moments of true bliss and resounding gratitude. Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world.
This series fills me with so much wholesome joy. Seeing two musicians from two very different backgrounds talking music and playing together will never not make me smile
Hey Rob, thanks for revisiting the sitar with this series. The videos you did with the sitar a few years ago are a lot of fun, but this video hits different, having a pro sitar player explain so much behind the sound and theory is truly a joy. Thanks again for doing this, I really enjoyed it and learned a lot too!
i love how rob can see a stringed instrument and just know how to play it flawlessly. doesn’t matter what corner of the globe it’s from, just that it’s got strings and can be played. i honestly wouldn’t be surprised if he could play an instrument from outer space
You can find this type of happy and uplifting music (Sitar+Guitar) in many Indian songs. One suggestion for you try listening "Abar Fire Ele" from movie "Dwitiya Purush" try listening from the start. I'm sure you will feel the charm.
@@MapplCiderVlogs I just listened to it, and the general feeling I get from it is a little more like bittersweet longing, and the tone of the one they freestyle in this video at 7:14 is pure unadulterated joyfulness. But it is a beautiful song; thanks for the recommendation.
I love the fact you aren't a one trick pony metal shredder! I was raised on a staple of folk rock (CSN, Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, etc.), metal/hard rock (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Led Zep, etc.), classical, and most importantly - The Beatles. When listening to George Harrison's few compositions that actually made it on an album and hearing songs that had (that odd twangy sounding, yet peaceful instrument) sitar as the focus of the songs, that led me to eastern music. I became very familiar and eventually a huge fan of Ravi Shankar. Almost 50yrs later, I have been around the world and have met and partied with the likes of Slayer, Steve Vai, Megadeth, Anthrax, In Flames, local musicians/bands in various countries and so many others. But the ONE thing I haven't been able to do is sit in an intimate setting and listen/learn from masters as you get to do. In a sense I envy you, but envy is foolish. I am just incredibly happy there are content creators, such as yourself, that share such wonderful experiences with others! So much respect ✌
There's so much Passion in this. Passion for music, passion for learning, passion for sharing said passion. Rob, Abhik. Best of luck and infinite love from sweden!
It's such a treat to see two skilled musicians inspired by each other's talent vibing together, swapping instruments and trying new things! One of my favorite series on TH-cam.
I was lucky enough to go to a few different concert organized by the Indian community here in Montréal, where they would bring some very famous musician. The majority of the audience in those concerts was mostly of south Asian descent, and the first few time I found it very interesting to pay attention to what in the music got the most reaction from the audience. I found it very interesting that with the sitar, it was the bends that got the most reactions! while the few westerners in the audience (myself included) would react to the shredding, that got very small reaction from the south Asian audience compared to the bends.
That probably comes from the fact that Indians classical music put a lot more emphasis on the journey of notes. A Raga becomes a raga after it reaches a particular note after going through other notes.
Met Abhik da randomly a couple of years ago in Kolkata airport where we shared a good chat, spoke about music, came to know he plays sitar in the states and today stumbled upon a video ft him. What a circle moment for me. Great to see you Abhik da, may god bless you!
I own a sitar but I rarely practice. I love Indian music especially sitar music. I find it almost hypnotic. It's kind of like a different way to listen to music.
Dear Sitharist, I am very glade that you have explained the technique of the wonderful instrument , “ Sithar” I am extremely thankful to you for explaining the passive strings getting resonated with the playing strings! I wish you all the Best, kindest Regards! Leonard Fernando. Srilanka.
Music Timestamps (now outdated) 0:12 Introduction 7:15 Jam #1: Major 9:16 Jam #2: Minor 10:37 Jam #3: Mezrab 12:51 Jam #4: Motif 13:49 Jam #5: Metal 15:09 Song #1 15:46 Song #2 17:29 Showoff 19:12 Song #3 19:54 Jam #6: Tabla 21:12 Jam #7: Finale Edit: It appears he trimmed some of the video out, so these are the new timestamps. 0:08 Introduction 5:26 Jam #1: Major 7:27 Jam #2: Minor 8:48 Jam #3: Mezrab 11:02 Jam #4: Motif 12:00 Jam #5: Metal 13:20 Song #1 13:57 Song #2 15:40 Showoff 17:23 Song #3 18:05 Jam #6: Tabla 19:23 Jam #7: Finale
Of all the instrument collabs I've seen on this channel, these jams were the best by far. What a sitar player. Totally sympatico. Great work man, keep coming with this quality content.
I’m doing post graduation in hindustani classical music and i play sitar in my university and can say that this is one of the most beautiful sounding instruments. I have both guitar and sitar and i enjoy playing both.
As a musician, these videos are so friggin' cool. To give light to these instruments and show how beautiful they really can be, it really almost bring a tear to my eyes. Music is a beautiful thing
Also check out Hashshashin (written as is, not "Hashashin" but "Hashshashin"), an Australian Post-Metal band that uses a lot of Middle Eastern instruments and composition techniques.
I came into music playing early and late. Started at the age of 7/8 and then stopped. I picked up the Sax last year (51) and it has been a joy. There is a joy and sense of creativity that emanates from music that cannot be replicated easily in other fields.
I love that you're using your platform to highlight instruments that people might not know a lot about. Western musical culture is so pervasive that it becomes hard to see and appreciate the musical traditions of other cultures. I especially appreciate the humility and intrigue you bring to all of these conversations. Amazing work!
16:27 everytime rob trys a new instrument he always plays such heartwarming music, i wish i knew enough about theory to find a tuning for those chords on guitar id make so much stuff with them
It so cool how musicians can seem to speak another language and they can just start playing and jam work off one another and have a conversation without speaking. Awesome video!
I'm amazed with two things in this video: 1. The sitar guy playing that fast, hard passages/slides/scales, and... 2. Rob making his attempt and bringing the guitar technique to sitar and making interesting chords on it, sounded really good!
Rob, as a high school band and guitar teacher, I want to express my extreme gratitude to you for posting these great videos. I love seeing your genuine love for music and how it can blend with other musicians regardless of genre or culture. This channel is a plethora of fun, education, and creativity. Keep the music flowing!
I can’t express my love for abhik, he is such a skilled and educated musician and so is rob and the way they jam together is a collab I never knew I needed, and when they played knocked loose. Man was i shocked. Much love to abhik I’ll for sure be checking him out
I grew up singing classical Indian music with my dad, who taught me an appreciation for it and all music. Seeing Rob and Abhik jam out was incredible, im sitting here feeling like I'm in a different dimension and moved by the raw talent.
This has been one of the most positive, inspiring and heartwarming videos I've seen in a while. Two different people, from different cultural backgrounds and two different styles of instruments and musicality coming together to share in their mutual love of music as a whole. Powerful stuff!
Well to be fair the sitar is tuned to one key or mode at a time as he explained and Rob is the one who has to match him with the right chords on guitar
I'm so happy to see Rob try the tabla! As a tabla player myself (also as someone who makes metal covers just like him) I have so much respect for him! He's come a long way and definitely deserves everything he's gotten and more 🙏🏻
Master of his craft, well spoken, infectious smile, calm demeanor, clearly in love with what he does, I salute this man!
Really funny too.
Truly a chad
@@TheV-Man kinda got the chin too lol
Which one?
@@Iamseanabortionè Abhik, of course. Not to say that Rob isn't good but still
I know this type of content can't come out forever, but as a musician i just adore everything about this series! So amazing to see these fantastic (and underrated in the USA) instruments get more of an audience!
There are over 1,500 different musical instruments around the world. Even if Rob consistently uploads every 2 weeks, that's like 57 more years of content.
@@Ferinex_666 yes, of course, but it isn't very realistic to happen.
Why can't it ?
@@Philtoid It would be hard to do the same thing for 57 years.
Who knows, maybe Rob is on a quest to play every instrument he can get his hands on, and have us watch. I’m always surprised at how easy he picks up these instruments. Imagine this series except it’s Prince hosting. lol
Abhik seems like one of those rare humans where you can't help but smile being around him. Just infectious happiness and love of life. And he seems to love every moment of sharing his music and teaching his craft. S-tier person.
God we need more people like him
S? I think he is SSR3+ dude
I like training my abhiks to strengthen my core.
That's what sitar music does to you.
S-itar
I love how when Abhik was playing the sitar, it had that rich Indian classical sound, but when Rob picked it and played the first thing, it sounded very American folk-ish and still sounded realy good. That was really interesting to listen to. Shows thatthe instrument has applications in other forms of music as well.
It also shows how the sound of an instrument can be heavily influenced by your own cultural and musical vocabulary. I tried to pick up an erhu once and it just sounded like a fiddle when I played it.
which we know since the 60s
I would think a lot of it would have to do with musical reference. What I mean by that is, for improvisational playing, you'll default to familiar sounds you've heard so for Rob it's going to be a lot of that American folk sounds because it's not like he grew up listening to the more Indian/ South Asian style.
Different scales sound different.
@@Indeciferable proffesor obvious
That sitar player has got to be one of the most skilled musicians I've ever seen. That was awesome
yeah man and such an amazing nice guy, what a great video
Sitar players are considered Ustaad(having god like skill) for a reason.
Search 🔎 for *Devine Layakari Shahid Parvej*
To see what a Sitar and a Sitarist capable of.
@@killakame-3434 Actually the MASTER of sitar is Ravi Shankar.
@@michaelmccoy1794 the true master is Ustad Vilayat Khan
of all indian solo musical instrument..the sitar and the sarangi are undoubtedly the best
Yess underrated comment cuz sarangi holy shit what a beautiful sounding instrument and the use of those inbetween microtones are so amazing to me
Flute too.
C'mon you can't do dirty like that to santoor and sehnai.
But without a doubt the most underrated is tabla as it supports every single instrument and never makes the headlines.
Bro the 'tabla' is one the best indian musical instrument
I wonder why you skipped Sarod
Love seeing two pro musicians just jam.
These videos are my highlight of the day whenever they release!
when you see the member comments but at the same time are broke 😭
@@gustarrezende There is no better feeling than playing with another musician and syncing up. Not even sex.
For 20 minutes I felt blessed to witness the vanguard of the synthesis of human culture... and it made me grab my guitar and play for a moment. that part is priceless
@@TheBanana93 That's why you need to date musicians so you can jam while having sex 😂
It's like a platonic love story. Pure joy even to watch it happen.
The sitar player is an amazing musician, whenever rob played a melody during a jam the guy just instantly picked it up by ear. Amazing!
In hindustani classical music, There is a lot of importance put on 'swar gyan', literally 'note knowledge' which is basically the ability of recognizing each note of the scale. A great example would be listening to singers improvise. They sing notes by their names (sa = do, re=re, ga=mi, fa=fa,etc) so you can tell they're not just singing whatever note comes to mind, but know exactly which notes they're singing).
@@nomnom112 saregama and doremi do not tell you the note name. They give you an idea of relative position. You still don't know what sound/frequency it is. Don't learn music by that method - it is terrible and makes you not understand keys and notes like you don't. Learn the grand staff.
@@agnidas5816 if u know what scale u are referring to ull know the exact key to play !
@@agnidas5816 sorry bro, I 100% disagree with you. one will be at an advantage by learning Saregama.
I never imagined a guitar and sitar would sound so good together, I have watched this video so many times just for their jamming session.
The Beatles man
@@officalhumblefish565 That's why he never thought they could sound good together. Because he only heard them together in the Beatles! 😂
Have you never heard Paint It Black?
Jones made it work
Dude... you need to listen to The Tea Party
When they went into minor and started jamming, I could literally listen to that all day, sounded so ominous and ethereal.
You can search for Raga Bhairavi
Especially the high pitch strings with the main strong barely ringing in
Well it was "minor" but really Phrygian. They were bordering on Wherever I May Roam a few times. Also, Chain Sling by Pain of Salvation was almost played verbatim at 13:08.
@@DCJayhawk57 Music like this is pretty common in India, doubt the inspiration came from anywhere else.
Elden ring vibes imo
Abhik is clearly a brilliant player, but I’m distracted by how infectious his smile is! He seems like such an incredibly fun person!
Yeah, he's so cool
Ikr I was thinking he had a lovely smile!!
gosh yes he just seemed so warm and gentle
All indian classical musicians smile that way . I don't know why . It seems like part of show
@@motherisape or maybe part of them . Indian classical music has its influence on a person's personality and development just as much as the music develops with the musician and not to forget how he/she gives the instrument itself a personality when Played!
Although my brain is about burst into flames trying to understand how the sitar is played, it's one of my favorite instruments to listen to. It conveys so much emotion and depth. Depending on what is beginning played, it sounds as if its crying
Crying, laughing, shouting in Joy. Yes
Sitar is known in India which can express human emotion.
@@versus1156 that makes so much sense. I only recently learned about this instrument but it caught my attention because of how much I can feel it emotionally. It is very powerful. So lovely.
It's not too complicated , practice is what matters
@@unwanted107 I think almost every instrument can express emotions.
Dude, those were some sick jams. And honestly, it seemed so natural and easy. That dude is definitely a pro and you can tell he just loves and lives to play. Amazing stuff. You should totally feature him on a proper track. I dig it. Nice work guys.
I was thinking the same thing. Write an actual track and have him play in it too. I'd put that on repeat!
Man rob scallion finds the best people to show all these instruments. I wonder how he finds them
I'd listen to a full album of these jams tbh
Word! So much joy all around! Peace.
Seemed natural and easy because it is natural and easy to improvise on top of a drone. As long as you play the right scale, anything sounds good. Of course this guys knows his stuff, can't deny he's a skilled musician.
As overused as the phrase is, these videos are one of the few things that legitimately restore my faith in humanity. No matter how bad things get, how bleak the world decides to be that day, every time I watch these, they remind me of how much culture and history, how much expression and emotion and joy there is in all corners of the world, all around us, all the time. Then I can calm down for a few moments and feel good about being part of the human race. In spite of everything, I do feel good about most of us. I do love most of you.
It's crazy that music can do that. But your videos are proof that everyone can feel it, no matter who we are, no matter where are roots are, no matter what instrument we pick up. That's what makes it work.
Love you too, friend.
Lovely comment,I appreciate you
You sound quite anti social and depressed. Perhaps seek out some help?
The bad ruin it for the rest of us
Beautiful comment it made me feel the same as you ❤
That guy freaking rips! Beautiful sounding instrument too!
Sitar derived from "Veena" the instrument of Hindu Goddess Saraswati ( Goddess of knowledge ). Indeed it have to be celestial ❤
Some ancient novels say, one lady in kingdom, bring leaf 🍃 in dead tree by using this instrument…..that’s how magical this instrument is……
I think he is so good and nicely explained to new learners.
These are genuinely some of the most wholesome videos on this entire platform
I always say that about Rob's educational series about instruments. It truly is wholesome. Just seeing Rob's enjoyment when a professional teaches him about their instrument, and when said professional sees Rob pick it up almost immediately (except say for the sax lol) is enough to get me going for the day.
I need an EP with you two, those little jams were just magical sounding. Sitar and Acoustic really compliment each other!
@robscallon
@@ghostagent3552 ⠀⠀⠀⠀
I have an album for you. A Meeting By the River by Ry Cooder and V.M. Bhatt. V.M. Bhatt plays a mohan veena made from a retrofitted Hawaiian archtop guitar. Think somewhere between a sitar and a lap steel
It's time for sitar metal: redux.
@@collinbeal Thank you for this suggestion, it's fantastic
This is so cool! I began to like sitar music when I first heard The Beatles, incorporate it in the 60s and early 1970s, when I was in high school. Then, later in college I found a cassette that was an "introduction to Sitar music" produced by Ravi Shankar, where he narrates, describing each element of the sitar, chords and notes and each of the drum-like rhythm instruments. He explained that "we should consider it to be like Jazz", and to listen to it with an open mind. I kind of fell in love the sounds and even to this day, in 2023, I still have that cassette, which I play on special occasions. To set the mood, I dim the lights and burn incense. Ravi had such a soothing voice to listen to. I felt like he was guiding me through a meditation. Thanks to You Tube, I have found even more sitar music to "groove" to. Thank you for this video, as I had never seen the instrument explained and demonstrated to this level.
People usually look at me like I’m a weirdo when I say that I listen to the Introduction to Sitar Music from time to time. It’s so relaxing and complex at the same time. Also huge respect to George Harrison for bringing the sitar and some elements of eastern music to rock, his contribution to the guitar techniques and the overall sound of most mainstream 60-70’s music is immeasurable and is very underrated
Ravi is great! Really cool that you mention that, as a much younger person, to share that finding. Right on!! ✌🏾
Ravi Shankar was our neighbour
@@Anonymous-8080 Wow,...really? To have known him, would have been a blessing. (He fathered musician Nora Jones, who has the voice of an angel). His other daughters carry on his musical legacy. One of them performs with Nora Jones, on sitar.
awesome recommendation man, thanks for that.
Never underestimate Robs ability to make something metal.
Check out Freak Kitchen "teargas jazz", you might like it.
Wow, Abhik Mukherjee has the most patient and peaceful demeanor. This was a good one, Rob.
In 2003 I bought a sitar from G. Rosul on eBay for around $500, which was no small fee at age 16. Three weeks later, a huge box arrived from India with every postmark on Earth on its sides. The case smelled like fresh-sawn teak and incense, and held something beautiful inside. An amalgamation of teak and gourd seamlessly joined together, hand-carved bone inlays adorned with swirling patterns of red and blue ink, shiny brass frets, and twenty-one wire strings. With nothing but two books in broken English and a Ravi Shankar LP, I spent my summer vacation teaching myself to play it. I don't regret it.
TLDR:
If you are thinking of buying one, do it.
So did you formally learn it later and do you still play it?
Love how relaxed and disarming these reviews of otherwise intimidating instruments are.
Also love the comedic transition for the sponsor.
Yes! Also funny about the sponsor; Who needs “better help” when your current therapist is Rob Scallon content.?
me too even though I skip the rest. At least this sponsorship is more of a well-intentioned sponsor and not some corporate shill. I think @Rob Scallon should do what Rick Beato does and set up his own sort of patreon-like option (maybe call it the Electric Shovel Club)... I would much rather support somebody directly than watch ads, and if I want to support somebody I'd rather most of my money goes to the actual person I'm supporting, rather than some middleman like Patreon (or other crowdfunding options) getting a huge cut.
Jake's movie is kind of a different situation. he's trying to get funding from a lot of people that maybe haven't seen his previous projects in addition to the people who have. (congratulations again Jake by the way)
Rob, you're channel has progressed from something that was fun and funny to a celebration of music in all its forms and instruments. I've enjoyed being along for the ride and really love the turn things have taken.
I was never a huge fan of sitars but I need one now
I never realized how amazing they sound
Same pinch ❤😂
That's because you have never experienced it!
Not for nothing Beatles incorporated it 🙂
The sitar is one of my favorite instruments. The sounds it makes evoke so much relaxed joy for me! Long live Indian classical music!
Check ustad Ajmal khan videos
FAVOURITE.
It's a very strange but also very pleasant, almost magical vibe.
@@Pow3llMorgan You don't have to call it "strange" just because it's something you (or the West in general) are not very used to :) although I get where you're coming from
@@cashwin45 I say "strange" as purely a subjective term. It's strange to _me_ is what I meant :)
I've been a guitarist for about 4 years now, the Sitar sounds soo heavenly. Such subtlety and Novelty
That's a great way to describe it. Heavenly indeed.
It’s used in Indian classical music and raaghas were worship songs :)
First three minutes and I found myself laughing along with their conversation. It feels so natural and comfortable. Heartwarming. I think that's what lured me into your videos. The genuine laugh and just people enjoying each other's company.
There's so much to Indian classical music that what meets the eye. I'm thankful you explored a tiny but integral part of it.
This fella's up there with the legend himself, Mr. Brandon Acker as one of the most pleasant, proficient guests I've seen on this channel. Some genuinely amazing, wholesome content right here
I am at the Bengali couldn’t be happier that I found a Bengali sitar player. American, born and raised and happy to say that the culture and arts that come from West Bengal is represented in this video. Thank you so much for representing my father side of the family.
same (also with my lastname also being chatterji although spelled with an i instead of two e's), I was born and raised in the US and yet it made me so happy once I realized Abhik was Bengali and knowing of course that the most celebrated Sitar player, Ravi Shankar is Bengali I enjoyed this video so much more, especially because my dad used to play sitar music in the car all the time when I was younger and I never would appreciate it.
Indian music and Indian classical music!!! West Bengal is not a separate country as you might want to think! Sitar players come from all over India!
@@av1421 No one wants to think that. I'm proudly Indian just as I am West Bengali. I just felt glad to see a Bengali Sitar player especially because the Sitar has been incorporated heavily into Bengali music for ages. That's not to say other parts of India didn't play the Sitar too. You don't have to get mad just because us West Bengalis feel represented seeing this video :) Punjabis and Tamils brag all the time once they notice someone *happens* to just have a Punjabi or Tamil lastname, so why can't we at least acknowledge and be happy about the fact this guy is from our home-state? No one claimed to be superior to the rest of India or isolate WB from India. In fact, I hate people who think that the terms "Bangladeshi" and "Bengali" are synonymous, because that implies that Bengalis can never be Indian.
@@av1421 ur a f00l to say that
For anyone interested in hearing Western instrumentation blended with Indian classical music, I cannot more highly recommend the album Junun by Shye Ben Tzur, Jonny Greenwood (of Radiohead fame) and the Rajasthan Express. It is a combination of Northern Indian raga, Sufi Islam Qawwali, with lyrics in Hebrew, Hindi, and Urdu. Still remains one of my favorite albums of all time.
@Nathan Brichita Any recommendations on Western music played WITH Indian instruments?
👍
Thank you so much I'll give it a listen.
Magic Carpet is a folk band from the early 70s that has an awesome lead singer, sitar, acoustic guitar and tabla. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a blend of Indian/western music.
@@AstroDash42 You can listen to Tushar Lall. You'll find him here on youtube. He uses a blend of western and Indian instruments to perform a rendition of some famous tunes from movies like Dark Knight Theme, Interstellar Theme, Pirates of The Caribbean Theme etc.
10:43 is a fusion I NEED more of. I REALLY liked that. I was vibing!
This dude is simultaneously super calm and super metal.
Honestly thats how metalheads are too
This is cool, I’ve never actually seen much about a sitar before
I agree! My curiosity just jumped me right into attentive listening ("quiet coyote" anyone?) and remained until the end!
The sitar is one of my favorite instruments to listen to, and has been since my early childhood. I used to sneak away to the local Hindu temple just to listen to the music, but I've never known anything about it other than "It is from India" and "I love the way it sounds".
Learning that it has movable frets blew me away.
@@digitaljanus yeah that part was kinda crazy
@@iwontliveinfear "I used to sneak away to the local Hindu temple just to listen to the music"
Elderly hindus will love you for that. Young hindu people aren't that interested in listeing to such music. What a waste.
Rob has ascended all musicality and now can play the Tabla bass and the guitar at the same time.
I've now learned that Sitar is the most metal acoustic instrument. Ngl, it sounded really dope. I'd listen to a metal album with him playing on every tune.
he just looks so effortlessly relaxed while he plays
This needs to be its own show on a paid streaming service, just going over an instrument every episode. Also, the sitar metal was awesome.
the way Abhik Mukherjee times when to pop out a riff, the way he articulates it and the notes he chooses makes it very apparent that he is well-versed in improvisation on his instrument. I would imagine that he definitely evokes frequent Eastern versions of the 'stank face' from his band mates during a jam session
The Sitar is a very imposing, yet majestic instrument. I love the unique, flowing sound, and the elegant design of the instrument!
It’s crazy to think how much the sitar has directly and indirectly impacted the way the guitar/bass is played in the US
Yeah, probably thank to Ravi Shankar
@@general9064 Ravi was only seen because of the limelight. Many unsung heroes contributed much to the influence.
@@general9064 I think they're talking about the way it's plucked(using the finger like pizzicato on string instruments/bass or fingerstyle on guitar).
The guitar is much older than the sitar though, but it think some of the bending is inspired
@Sombrata the sitar is less than 300 years old, the guitar is at least 500 years older than the sitar
What a pleasure and privilege to witness two masters unite in mutual respect and musical synchrony. Together, you achieved stunning moments of true bliss and resounding gratitude. Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world.
This series fills me with so much wholesome joy. Seeing two musicians from two very different backgrounds talking music and playing together will never not make me smile
Hey Rob, thanks for revisiting the sitar with this series. The videos you did with the sitar a few years ago are a lot of fun, but this video hits different, having a pro sitar player explain so much behind the sound and theory is truly a joy. Thanks again for doing this, I really enjoyed it and learned a lot too!
i love how rob can see a stringed instrument and just know how to play it flawlessly. doesn’t matter what corner of the globe it’s from, just that it’s got strings and can be played. i honestly wouldn’t be surprised if he could play an instrument from outer space
The music they play at 7:14 is absolutely gorgeous. I've already listened to it like 3 times, and I'm sure I'll listen to it many more.
You can find this type of happy and uplifting music (Sitar+Guitar) in many Indian songs. One suggestion for you try listening "Abar Fire Ele" from movie "Dwitiya Purush" try listening from the start. I'm sure you will feel the charm.
@@MapplCiderVlogs I just listened to it, and the general feeling I get from it is a little more like bittersweet longing, and the tone of the one they freestyle in this video at 7:14 is pure unadulterated joyfulness. But it is a beautiful song; thanks for the recommendation.
@@KnuckleHunkybuck Welcome 👍🏻
th-cam.com/video/p_zhjK0p8Rk/w-d-xo.html
Do you consider this joyful?
@@deliciousredmango No, it sounds more wistful or nostalgic to me.
I love the fact you aren't a one trick pony metal shredder! I was raised on a staple of folk rock (CSN, Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, etc.), metal/hard rock (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Led Zep, etc.), classical, and most importantly - The Beatles. When listening to George Harrison's few compositions that actually made it on an album and hearing songs that had (that odd twangy sounding, yet peaceful instrument) sitar as the focus of the songs, that led me to eastern music. I became very familiar and eventually a huge fan of Ravi Shankar.
Almost 50yrs later, I have been around the world and have met and partied with the likes of Slayer, Steve Vai, Megadeth, Anthrax, In Flames, local musicians/bands in various countries and so many others. But the ONE thing I haven't been able to do is sit in an intimate setting and listen/learn from masters as you get to do. In a sense I envy you, but envy is foolish. I am just incredibly happy there are content creators, such as yourself, that share such wonderful experiences with others! So much respect ✌
Search 🔎 for *Devine Layakari Shahid Parvej*
To see what a Sitar and a Sitarist capable of.
There's something very unique and beautiful about the sitar and the guitar together.
There's so much Passion in this. Passion for music, passion for learning, passion for sharing said passion. Rob, Abhik. Best of luck and infinite love from sweden!
These videos are so chill and fascinating. Keep em' coming please.
Sitar is the most beautiful music on earth, I've listened for almost 4 decades and it's so uplifting and rich.
Abhik is so smiley and it made my Saturday morning after a rough week. That was such a pleasnt guest on your channel!
It's such a treat to see two skilled musicians inspired by each other's talent vibing together, swapping instruments and trying new things! One of my favorite series on TH-cam.
The jam at 7:15 has no reason being as beautiful as it is
Loved that too❤
My personal favorite
? If so can someone tell what is it called?
@@wazy1852 what?
@@wazy1852 They were improvising - it's not an actual written song
I was lucky enough to go to a few different concert organized by the Indian community here in Montréal, where they would bring some very famous musician. The majority of the audience in those concerts was mostly of south Asian descent, and the first few time I found it very interesting to pay attention to what in the music got the most reaction from the audience. I found it very interesting that with the sitar, it was the bends that got the most reactions! while the few westerners in the audience (myself included) would react to the shredding, that got very small reaction from the south Asian audience compared to the bends.
That probably comes from the fact that Indians classical music put a lot more emphasis on the journey of notes. A Raga becomes a raga after it reaches a particular note after going through other notes.
insightful 👍
I would be interested by a prog album, with Rob Scallon on the electric guitar, and Abhik on the sitar
King Gizzard did a similar thing with Float Along - Fill Your Lungs, I’m assuming this is what you are referencing
Hell yeah
This touched my heart.sitar was always in my house. My father played on Hyderabad radio in 1950s.
Met Abhik da randomly a couple of years ago in Kolkata airport where we shared a good chat, spoke about music, came to know he plays sitar in the states and today stumbled upon a video ft him. What a circle moment for me. Great to see you Abhik da, may god bless you!
the energy between rob and all of the professionals he’s been with so far is absolutely immaculate✨
I own a sitar but I rarely practice. I love Indian music especially sitar music. I find it almost hypnotic. It's kind of like a different way to listen to music.
Dear Sitharist,
I am very glade that you have explained the technique of the wonderful instrument , “ Sithar” I am extremely thankful to you for explaining the passive strings getting resonated with the playing strings! I wish you all the Best, kindest Regards!
Leonard Fernando.
Srilanka.
Those bending notes are so ethereal sounding. It's a lovely instrument.
The guy with the sitar is the very best. The instrument seems to love him even more than he loves it.
Both outstanding musicians here. Thanks Rob for this series of videos. Ardent fan of you and your immense talent. Stay blessed always.
Music Timestamps (now outdated)
0:12 Introduction
7:15 Jam #1: Major
9:16 Jam #2: Minor
10:37 Jam #3: Mezrab
12:51 Jam #4: Motif
13:49 Jam #5: Metal
15:09 Song #1
15:46 Song #2
17:29 Showoff
19:12 Song #3
19:54 Jam #6: Tabla
21:12 Jam #7: Finale
Edit: It appears he trimmed some of the video out, so these are the new timestamps.
0:08 Introduction
5:26 Jam #1: Major
7:27 Jam #2: Minor
8:48 Jam #3: Mezrab
11:02 Jam #4: Motif
12:00 Jam #5: Metal
13:20 Song #1
13:57 Song #2
15:40 Showoff
17:23 Song #3
18:05 Jam #6: Tabla
19:23 Jam #7: Finale
The 10:37 sounds like a Tom Clancy movie of the Iraq war
the metal segment is a tool song
@@Sch1sMx huh yep I can hear it
15:46 does anyone know what song is that? Or it was just improvisation?
@@PodoShmodo just improv as far as I know
Of all the instrument collabs I've seen on this channel, these jams were the best by far. What a sitar player. Totally sympatico. Great work man, keep coming with this quality content.
I’m doing post graduation in hindustani classical music and i play sitar in my university and can say that this is one of the most beautiful sounding instruments. I have both guitar and sitar and i enjoy playing both.
As a musician, these videos are so friggin' cool. To give light to these instruments and show how beautiful they really can be, it really almost bring a tear to my eyes. Music is a beautiful thing
We need a metal track with Sitar and with you guys collabing together. 10/10 would listen!
There's literally a band called Sitar Metal if you wanna check it out.
Also check out Hashshashin (written as is, not "Hashashin" but "Hashshashin"), an Australian Post-Metal band that uses a lot of Middle Eastern instruments and composition techniques.
Check out the band Agam, they're an Indian rock band that uses traditional singing and sometimes traditional instruments.
@@groovemoustache INDIA is NOT the middle east !
We are NOT Arabs !
There are plenty of metal songs with sitar in it.
Re-stringing my Kharaj Pancham (19 string) sitar was an experience I will never forget! Made me sympathetic to those who string harps and pianos.
Nothing gets me going more than watching two masters collide their styles and communicate in this way. Eastern vs western styles and its beautiful.
I came into music playing early and late. Started at the age of 7/8 and then stopped. I picked up the Sax last year (51) and it has been a joy. There is a joy and sense of creativity that emanates from music that cannot be replicated easily in other fields.
The most impressive part is easily him being able to move the frets to the correct notes on the fly by ear like that, that’s pretty incredible
I love how rob just jams and the visiting musicians enjoy how quick he picks it up!
I love that you're using your platform to highlight instruments that people might not know a lot about. Western musical culture is so pervasive that it becomes hard to see and appreciate the musical traditions of other cultures. I especially appreciate the humility and intrigue you bring to all of these conversations. Amazing work!
Western musical culture is pervasive mostly in Europe and America but Indian music , dance, movies and instruments are loved across Asia and Africa.
16:27 everytime rob trys a new instrument he always plays such heartwarming music, i wish i knew enough about theory to find a tuning for those chords on guitar id make so much stuff with them
I love how friendly and nice the sitar player was! You can tell he loves the instrument and just wants to teach
Best jams you've done with a guest in my opinion Rob. The metally sounding jams was like krautrock!
Recently just got playing my electric guitar again and watching these video motivated me to continue playing without a long pause 💯🎸
Same with my acoustic
It so cool how musicians can seem to speak another language and they can just start playing and jam work off one another and have a conversation without speaking. Awesome video!
I'm amazed with two things in this video:
1. The sitar guy playing that fast, hard passages/slides/scales, and...
2. Rob making his attempt and bringing the guitar technique to sitar and making interesting chords on it, sounded really good!
That duet a 7:15 is amazing. Absolutely beautiful.
I’ve heard and have been fascinated, by the sitar for decades, and had no idea how this instrument was played. Thank you.
That jam at 7:15 was suh-weeeeet!
Also thank you for finally covering the sitar. I've been in love with its sound for all my life.
Actually, all of the jams were amazing. Such a great video.
What's the name of that music ? Please help !
Indian classical music is so peaceful ❤
IT can be...
Rob, as a high school band and guitar teacher, I want to express my extreme gratitude to you for posting these great videos. I love seeing your genuine love for music and how it can blend with other musicians regardless of genre or culture. This channel is a plethora of fun, education, and creativity. Keep the music flowing!
There's just something about the way Indian classical music sounds that it is very pleasing to my ears. Great video Rob!
I can’t express my love for abhik, he is such a skilled and educated musician and so is rob and the way they jam together is a collab I never knew I needed, and when they played knocked loose. Man was i shocked. Much love to abhik I’ll for sure be checking him out
I grew up singing classical Indian music with my dad, who taught me an appreciation for it and all music. Seeing Rob and Abhik jam out was incredible, im sitting here feeling like I'm in a different dimension and moved by the raw talent.
16:32 reminded me of Iroh's song for his deceased son in that special episode of Avatar (for Mako). Goosebumps and tears...
Totally man!!
I also heard little soldier boy!!
This has been one of the most positive, inspiring and heartwarming videos I've seen in a while. Two different people, from different cultural backgrounds and two different styles of instruments and musicality coming together to share in their mutual love of music as a whole. Powerful stuff!
The dudes tonality and ability to play in key with rob scallions guitar playing is impressive. He was shredding on it that first jam.
Well to be fair the sitar is tuned to one key or mode at a time as he explained and Rob is the one who has to match him with the right chords on guitar
I'm so happy to see Rob try the tabla! As a tabla player myself (also as someone who makes metal covers just like him) I have so much respect for him! He's come a long way and definitely deserves everything he's gotten and more 🙏🏻
20:53 Every time I watch this I just love how he just pours his soul into every note of that run
The best part of this video is seeing the joy on both of your faces as you play together
When you did the harmonies at 12:50 onwards I got the most powerful goosebumps. There needs to be more sitar & guitar duets
I loved the little jam they did in the middle! It really is cool to see different string instruments from different cultures playing together
It's crazy how you can hear Rob's style on the sitar too. His playing is uniquely him.
My daughter loves you channel and videos like these are some of her favorite. Thanks for all the hard work to make these to everyone on the team.
Two passionate people coming together to create magic.Cant understand anything about music but admire the calmness it creates
What a combo❤
5:25 emotional one
7:26 mixed feelings
8:47 intense one
12:00 mixed one again
Intense*
no. 12:00 is oblivions peak by knocked loose
@@chevyyeeterthat sounds like Indian music combined with American wild west background music