Vishna Mohan Bhatt, Ry Cooder, "A Meeting By The River"

Slide guitar master Ry Cooder has long had an interest in music of different cultures, from the blues and gospel of black America to Tex-Mex country, to classic jazz and the music of Cuba. Still, he is neither a serious student of Indian music nor in any way a master of its intricacies. Yet on this improvised session (this album was recorded without rehearsal in one evening), he and Vishwa Mohan Bhatt truly collided musically and created moments worthy of the world-music Grammy they received for it. Bhatt is a Rajasthani musician whose family has been immersed in Northern Indian classical music for generations. Bhatt plays guitar but his instrument is far removed from the guitar as we know it. Bhatt took the guitar, modified it, and added sympathetic strings so it more closely fitted the Indian conception of stringed instruments. Cooder heard Bhatt's Saradamani album and a partnership was born. This is music of a delicate, serene nature, accompanied by little more than tabla drums. It is some of the most uplifting, truly spiritual music I've ever heard. And on other levels: they are both masterful players, and their ability to carry on a spontaneous musical conversation, bridging cultural and language barriers is nothing short of a revelation.

Philip Toshio Sudo, "Zen Guitar"

A student of Eastern philosophy and an avid guitar player, Philip Sudo realized that each of us carries a song inside that makes us unique. In "Zen Guitar", he shows readers how to find--and awaken--the song within. For professional musicians, amateur guitar enthusiasts, or music lovers who have never played a chord, this unique book sounds a theme of harmony that will resonate in all aspects of life. This is not a lesson book, but a series of short essays, accompanied by absolutely brilliant quotes from musicians that support and exemplify the philosophy of the book. As I read this book for the first time, I kept thinking, "yes, yes, yes!" Thanks to Phil for applying a much needed Zen perspective to the world of music, which is all too often overly competitive and ego-driven. If you're a guitarist, please read this book. If you're not a guitarist, please read this book!
For more info, visit the Zen Guitar Dojo. Also look for Phil's new book, Zen Computer," which is now available!