Following the success of the original RNT Project, SVF Music has unveiled RNT Project Chapter 2. The compilation, which dropped today on SVF Music’s YouTube and various audio platforms, is a fitting tribute to Rabindranath Tagore on his birth anniversary, offering a modern twist to traditional Rabindrasangeet.
RNT Project Chapter 2 features an ensemble of 11 Tagore compositions, under the direction of Arindom. This blend of diverse sounds introduces a new level of modernism and freshness to Tagore’s timeless works, aiming to appeal to both connoisseurs and new listeners alike. Snapshots...
l Renowned Rabindrasangeet vocalist Jayati Chakraborty brings her unique rendition of Aaj jyotsna raatey to the album, enhanced by a vintage horn section that gracefully envelops the timeless composition in a soft rock rendition. “Rabindrasangeet is a subject that has been an inseparable part of my soul. I have been trying to express every emotion through Tagore’s songs. Arindom has envisioned Tagore in a different way,” said Jayati.
l Somlata, a pivotal figure in the RNT Project, delivers poignant renditions of Bhalobashi bhalobashi and Chhinno patar shajai tawroni, each offering unique arrangements ranging from classical guitar fusion to emotive storytelling. “I have always been a person who wanted to explore Tagore’s songs in every possible way. And with RNT Project it became true,” said Somlata.
Jayati, Arindom
l Arindom takes centre stage with two tracks, Anondolokey and Amar mon maney na, showcasing his prowess as both a musician and vocalist. Amar mon maney na draws inspiration from Scottish melodies, incorporating elements such as Scottish-style guitars, kazoo, cello, hurdy-gurdy, and Scottish flutes to evoke a rustic ambience. “RNT 2 articulates the modernism and coolness of the sound design of Rabindrasangeet. The album sounds complete dynamically,” said Arindom.
l Amrita Singh, sister of Arijit Singh and a former collaborator on the RNT Project, joins forces with the popular duo Tani-Muni, emerging stars from a reality music show, to lend their voices to the opening track Phooley phooley. “We have grown up singing and listening to Rabindrasangeet. So, it is always a soul connection that we cherish with Tagore songs. I am very glad to be a part of this journey,” said Amrita.
l Antaraa Bhattacharya adds her distinct sound to Mawmo chittey, focusing on traditional Rabindrasangeet elements, particularly the dance-oriented style.
l Shyamoshree Saha returns with Shedin dujoney, an experimental piece portraying a musical chase sequence between two unrelated characters amidst a heist scenario, characterised by Afro basslines, Berlin underground-style compositions, and high-energy electric guitars.
l The album also features folk fusion performances by Suchona Shely and Dipannita Acharya in Tumi khushi thako, presenting a rustic Bengal imagery with traditional instruments like the madol and authentic vocal designs.
l Singer-songwriter Sanjeeta Bhattacharya contributes Oreygrihobashi, the sole electronic track enriched by the flavours of dotara, sarangi, and flute, complementing Sanjeeta’s commanding vocals with lively claps and joyful rhythms. “Finally I am hearing myself sing Rabindrasangeet, my first song in Bangla, that too with Arindomda, it makes me feel very happy and proud. I am hopeful that this song will touch everyone as it has a contemporary soundscape,” said Sanjeeta.
l Shirsha Chakraborty showcases her talent in Aaj nahi nahi nidra, a nostalgic return to old-school rock infused with country-style elements and featuring a captivating lap steel solo theme.
