THomasso Records’ (Chiang Mai) third release “Lanna blessings of Buddhist chants” continues with its aim to create sound to rejuvenate and soothe soul, body and mind.
On this CD Buddhist chants by the nuns of “Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong” recorded live on location, are embellished with instrumentation by two absolute masters of classical Northern Thai Lanna music, Somboon. ‘Boy’ Gawichai and Panutat ‘Khru Add’ Aphichanatong.
During the sessions ‘Khru Add’, inspired by the chants, also played several beautiful solo flute pieces of which three have been included.Religious chants are universal although their use and intent varies for and even within each religion.
The purpose of Buddhist chants is said to be illuminating, and they are an act of vocal meditation. They can be considered to be a linguistic device for deepening one’s thought, or in the Buddhist context developing the enlightened mind, and can be an effective way of changing the level of one’s consciousness. A mantra is a religious syllable or poem, typically from the Sanskrit language. Primarily used as spiritual conduits, words and vibrations instill one-pointed concentration in the devotee. Since sound is the non-material source of the material manifestation, it is the key by which we can become free from bondage. It is the thread-like link between the material and spiritual realms. Life in the Buddhist monasteries, of which “Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong” is an excellent example, centers on a succession of services in which choral chanting is an important everyday practice.
Several meditation techniques benefit from chants for relaxation, to reduce stress, better health and better self image; but they can also benefit the world by reducing violence, crime and generally improve the quality of life.
The mix of soothing instrumental sounds and underlying drones with the devotional Buddhist chants create an excellent musical experience for relaxation, meditation, inner harmony and reflection.
