In the ever-evolving realm of music, where boundaries blur and genres meld, emerges an outstanding musical artist who has pushed the envelope like never before. Kobi Arad, a multi-talented and multi-award-winning artist, stands as a testament to the boundless possibilities of musical expression. Recently, he graced the album ‘Rags and Ragas’ by Charu Suri as a special guest, a collaboration that is sending shockwaves through the music world.
A Grammy Award voting member, Kobi Arad has etched his name in the realm of music history as the first musician to receive a Doctorate in the field of ‘Third Stream’ from the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. With 20+ self-titled CDs available on Amazon, Arad’s musical prowess knows no bounds.
Arad’s versatility as a pianist, composer, and producer has led him to collaborate with an array of musical legends, including Roy Ayers, Cindy Blackman, and Jack DeJohnette. However, one of his most noteworthy collaborations to date is with none other than the legendary Stevie Wonder, where Stevie and his manager, Stephanie Andrews helped Arad produce a live show in Berklee Performance Center, Boston.
And now, adding another layer to his already illustrious career, Kobi Arad introduces ‘Visions / Song,’ his latest independent album. This album – a clear allusion to Wonder’s Innervisions – presents a pop-nu Jazz-Funk selection of songs, each resonating with the visionary spark of hyper creativity, showcasing a glowing eccentricity that’s particularly Arad’s.
The masterpiece that has recently catapulted Kobi Arad into the spotlight is the album ‘Rags and Ragas,’ a sonic journey that defies convention. Notably, Arad didn’t just make a cameo appearance; he also took on the role of co-producer, alongside the talented Brent Fischer, Charu Suri, and Devan Ekambaram. This collaboration is more than just music; it’s a fusion of cultures, genres, and ideas, representing a groundbreaking precedence in the marriage of Jazz and Indian Ragas.
Arad’s vision for this album extended beyond conventional boundaries, inviting Jazz legends Steve Gadd and John Patitucci to join the musical odyssey. Their virtuosic contributions added depth and dimension to ‘Rags and Ragas,’ elevating it to a level that transcends traditional expectations.
The reception of ‘Rags and Ragas’ has been nothing short of phenomenal. The album burst onto the scene, making its debut at an impressive number 3 on the US national iTunes Jazz Charts. This achievement is a testament to the album’s uniqueness and the undeniable interaction among the collaborators, including Kobi Arad.
But the journey is just beginning for Arad with ‘Rags and Ragas,’ an album named and conceptualized by him, who also facilitated the collaboration between Charu Suri (the album artist) and Steve Gadd! In a testament to the album’s excellence and innovation, Kobi Arad is set for a prestigious appearance at the Grammy Museum on October 8th in Los Angeles. Here, he will showcase not only the album he co-produced but also his remarkable talent as a special guest. It’s an event that promises to be a celebration of music that transcends boundaries, blending cultures, and breaking new ground in the world of Jazz.
In the heart of New York City, Kobi Arad lives, composes, and performs, drawing inspiration from the vibrant tapestry of the city’s diverse musical landscape. His soulful style effortlessly spans Classical Modern, Jazz, and Neo-Soul, reflecting the eclectic influences that have shaped his musical journey.
In the realm of music, Kobi Arad is a true visionary, a trailblazer who constantly challenges the norms and pushes the boundaries of artistic expression. With ‘Rags and Ragas,’ he has not only reinvented Jazz but has also paved the way for a new era of musical fusion, one that transcends borders and captivates the soul. As he continues to dazzle spectators with his enchanting melodic lines and harmonic progressions, Kobi Arad’s legacy in the world of music is undoubtedly one for the ages.
