About Shree / Sindhu Bhairavi
Shree / Sindhu Bhairavi is a 1965 Indian classical music album by sitar maestro Ravi Shankar and sarod maestro Ali Akbar Khan. The release features two extended instrumental performances in the Hindustani classical tradition. The album was recorded in a live or studio setting, though specific recording details remain unconfirmed.
The album comprises two tracks. The first track, Raga: Shree, presents a rendition of Raga Shree, a late evening raga known for its meditative and solemn character. Ravi Shankar performs the sitar, while Ali Akbar Khan accompanies on the sarod. The second track, Raga: Sindhu Bhairavi, showcases Raga Sindhu Bhairavi, a morning raga with a lyrical and devotional mood. The artists maintain the traditional structure of alap, jor, and jhala, followed by gat compositions in teental and other rhythmic cycles.
The release does not specify a record label, and the original format is presumed to be a vinyl LP, though later reissues may have included other formats. The album exemplifies the collaborative style of Shankar and Khan, who were frequent duet partners during the mid-20th century. Their interplay highlights the melodic and rhythmic dialogue characteristic of Hindustani instrumental duets.
No additional musicians, such as tabla accompanists, are credited on the album. The exact duration of each track is not documented in available sources. The release remains a notable example of mid-century Hindustani classical recordings, reflecting the artists' technical mastery and interpretive depth.