About The Genius of Pt. Jasraj
The Genius of Pt. Jasraj is a studio album by Indian classical vocalist Pandit Jasraj. The album was released on January 1, 1991. It features three tracks of Mewati gharana vocal music, presented in the traditional khayal and bhajan formats.
Pandit Jasraj performs the opening track, Raga Alahiya Bilawal, a morning raga from the Bilawal thaat. The composition follows the vilambit and drut khayal structures, showcasing alap, taan, and bol-taan improvisations. The second track, Jai Jai Siddhi Karali Kali, is a devotional bhajan in praise of the goddess Kali. Jasraj renders the piece in a meditative tempo, emphasizing the lyrical and melodic interplay.
The final track, Daras Det Kyun Ni Maa Mori, Tiharo Ghar Subas Baso, is another bhajan, dedicated to the divine mother. The performance employs a rhythmic cycle and incorporates traditional bhakti poetry. The album does not specify a record label. The instrumentation includes tanpura for drone support and tabla for rhythmic accompaniment, though the accompanying musicians are not credited in the available context.
The release captures Pandit Jasraj’s signature vocal style, characterized by precise intonation, emotive phrasing, and adherence to the Mewati gharana’s aesthetic principles. The album serves as a representation of his contributions to Hindustani classical and devotional music during the late 20th century.