What does it mean to truly celebrate women’s voices? To champion their stories, struggles, and triumphs in a world that often silences them? Dhruv Ghanekar’s latest album, Voyage 2, answers these questions with a powerful tribute to the strength and resilience of women, especially those rooted in folk traditions. This album is a movement—a celebration of the women who have long been the heartbeat of their communities, driving change and preserving the rich cultural tapestry of India.
Released in June 2024, Voyage 2 is India’s bold entry to the Grammys, vying for multiple categories, including Global Music Album and Best Immersive Audio. The album’s ten tracks offer a rich blend of global musical traditions—everything from Brazilian Samba to Balkan beats, African pop, funk, and jazz—interwoven with Indian folk melodies.
The album opens with the energizing “Suprabhatam,” where ancient Sanskrit shlokas meet the modern pulse of drum and bass, setting the tone for the journey ahead. As the music flows, we are taken to the heart of Assam with “Deuri,” a track that seamlessly fuses traditional Assamese folk from the Deuri tribe with the lively flair of jazz funk and Brazilian rhythms. The journey continues with “Jatra,” a cultural mosaic where Marathi Lavani dances alongside Brazilian grooves, Norwegian folk, and Portuguese vocals, creating a global tapestry of sound.
Listen to his songs on Spotify.
“Bego” then bursts onto the scene, layering jazz, funk, and Rajasthani folklore into a vibrant and dynamic soundscape. In contrast, “Nacho” invites listeners to the dance floor, merging the earthy tones of African guitars with the rich textures of Rajasthani folk and the bold brass of Balkan horns. Finally, “Assam” brings the album to a cinematic close, painting an auditory picture of the region’s serene beauty, leaving listeners with a lasting impression of this diverse and powerful musical journey.
Dhruv Ghanekar’s journey in music is nothing short of legendary. With a career spanning over 25 years, he has composed for over 4,000 commercials, produced music for films like Bombay Boys and Dhaakad, and crafted soundtracks for international brands like Nike and Google. His work has earned him over two dozen international awards, including prestigious accolades like the Cannes Lions and the London International Awards.
Beyond his commercial success, Ghanekar’s artistic influence runs deep in the global music scene. He has collaborated with icons like A.R. Rahman, Zakir Hussain, and Richard Bona, performing at major festivals worldwide, including SXSW and Oslo Jazz Festival. As a co-founder of the iconic venue blueFrog, Ghanekar was instrumental in sparking India’s indie music revolution, making him a pivotal figure in the country’s contemporary music landscape.
One of the standout aspects of Voyage 2 is the impressive list of collaborators who bring the album to life. Ila Arun, a powerhouse in Rajasthani folk music, lends her unmistakable voice to several tracks, including the lively “Nacho” and the romantic “Jadu.” Assamese vocalist Kalpana Patowary delivers a stunning performance on “Deuri” and “O Sorothia,” infusing the tracks with the rich musical traditions of her homeland.
The album also features contributions from world-class musicians like bassist Mohini Dey, drummer Gino Banks, and percussionist Taufiq Qureshi, all of whom add their unique flair to Ghanekar’s compositions. International artists, including Tim Lefebvre and Tonny Morra, further elevate the album, blending their global rhythms with Indian folk melodies in a way that’s never been heard before.
No wonder Voyage 2 has had a strong week at college radio, becoming the #2 Most Added at World last week. Key adds include WDWN, WRRG, WWUH, CJLO, KGLT, WCSF, and KCSB. The record was also added at KLKT, CFRU, WHFR, WAHS, and WDBM, with a folk add at WHFR and inclusion in KZSC’s library. It debuted on KLKT’s Top 30 at #2, WDBM’s at #29, and the World chart at KXLU at #7.
As we await the Grammy nominations, Voyage 2 stands out as a groundbreaking album that not only showcases Dhruv Ghanekar’s incredible talent but also serves as a powerful statement on the importance of preserving cultural heritage and amplifying women’s voices. It’s a celebration of diversity, empowerment, and the universal language of music. Be sure to check it out and join in the celebration of what could be India’s next Grammy-winning masterpiece!
Connect with Dhruv Ghanekar
https://www.instagram.com/dhruvg
https://www.facebook.com/ghanekar.dhruv
Published by: Khy Talara
