Sitar (19 strings that aren't as complicated as they seem... well maybe.)

Abhik Mukherjee: abhikmukherjee.com/
/ abhiksitar
/ abhikbhai
Thanks to the Chhandayan Center for Indian Music in New York City.
The song we play at 13:49 is by a hardcore band named Knocked Loose, check 'em out: here's that song: • Knocked Loose "Oblivio...
My guitar courses are available within the Guitareo membership :)
www.guitareo.com
Also, my beginner course, GuitarQuest, is still available on its own too
www.guitareo.com/guitar-quest
The gear that I use: imp.i114863.net/yRLxmG
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The channel is supported in part by Sweetwater’s affiliate program. Thanks for that!
Commentary, song stems, and early access to videos when you super-subscribe on Patreon: / robscallon
Mixed by Rob Ruccia of Uptown Recording: www.uptownrecording.com/
Video shot & edited by Jake Jarvi: / pineappleboyfilms
This video was made possible because of Patreon support from Rob Harper, Hypergnome, Fabio, rd1994, Isaac Briefer, ricin, Sheldon Bird, Yaroslav Yermilov, Denis Lachapelle, Kevin Harris, and many other awesome people on my Patreon page: / robscallon
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[@JaguarBST]

Master of his craft, well spoken, infectious smile, calm demeanor, clearly in love with what he does, I salute this man!

[@ChadKakashi]

Really funny too.

[@Alkaloid-Odin]

Truly a chad

[@tolkiensunknowngrandchild3767]

@@Alkaloid-Odin kinda got the chin too lol

[@therealtartigrade5916]

Which one?

[@tolkiensunknowngrandchild3767]

@@therealtartigrade5916 Abhik, of course. Not to say that Rob isn't good but still

[@shanebentley5630]

I know this type of content can't come out forever, but as a musician i just adore everything about this series! So amazing to see these fantastic (and underrated in the USA) instruments get more of an audience!

[@Ferinex_666]

There are over 1,500 different musical instruments around the world. Even if Rob consistently uploads every 2 weeks, that's like 57 more years of content.

[@shanebentley5630]

@@Ferinex_666 yes, of course, but it isn't very realistic to happen.

[@Philtoid]

Why can't it ?

[@Catlily5]

@@Philtoid It would be hard to do the same thing for 57 years.

[@allenmitchell09]

Who knows, maybe Rob is on a quest to play every instrument he can get his hands on, and have us watch. I’m always surprised at how easy he picks up these instruments. Imagine this series except it’s Prince hosting. lol

[@simapaul197]

of all indian solo musical instrument..the sitar and the sarangi are undoubtedly the best

[@SiamAMusic]

Yess underrated comment cuz sarangi holy shit what a beautiful sounding instrument and the use of those inbetween microtones are so amazing to me

[@kamilshah8966]

Flute too.

[@shubhendranathsingh9888]

C'mon you can't do dirty like that to santoor and sehnai. But without a doubt the most underrated is tabla as it supports every single instrument and never makes the headlines.

[@baushun332]

Bro the 'tabla' is one the best indian musical instrument

[@srijondas5914]

I wonder why you skipped Sarod

[@AlasdairGR]

Abhik seems like one of those rare humans where you can't help but smile being around him. Just infectious happiness and love of life. And he seems to love every moment of sharing his music and teaching his craft. S-tier person.

[@Unknowntraveler302]

God we need more people like him

[@Yomamainmydms1]

S? I think he is SSR3+ dude

[@TheBcoolGuy]

I like training my abhiks to strengthen my core.

[@phoenixj1299]

That's what sitar music does to you.

[@bridgerparker4275]

S-itar

[@damneh8688]

I love how when Abhik was playing the sitar, it had that rich Indian classical sound, but when Rob picked it and played the first thing, it sounded very American folk-ish and still sounded realy good. That was really interesting to listen to. Shows thatthe instrument has applications in other forms of music as well.

[@BosseCory]

It also shows how the sound of an instrument can be heavily influenced by your own cultural and musical vocabulary. I tried to pick up an erhu once and it just sounded like a fiddle when I played it.

[@muchanadziko6378]

which we know since the 60s

[@Indeciferable]

I would think a lot of it would have to do with musical reference. What I mean by that is, for improvisational playing, you'll default to familiar sounds you've heard so for Rob it's going to be a lot of that American folk sounds because it's not like he grew up listening to the more Indian/ South Asian style.

[@rahultirkey7950]

Different scales sound different.

[@samsara2521]

@@Indeciferable proffesor obvious

[@dangerdurcan4839]

When they went into minor and started jamming, I could literally listen to that all day, sounded so ominous and ethereal.

[@hemangchauhan2864]

You can search for Raga Bhairavi

[@cumbob]

Especially the high pitch strings with the main strong barely ringing in

[@DCJayhawk57]

Well it was "minor" but really Phrygian. They were bordering on Wherever I May Roam a few times. Also, Chain Sling by Pain of Salvation was almost played verbatim at 13:08.

[@antemedon]

@@DCJayhawk57 Music like this is pretty common in India, doubt the inspiration came from anywhere else.

[@ronanjenkins2323]

Elden ring vibes imo

[@chiragmidha2878]

I never imagined a guitar and sitar would sound so good together, I have watched this video so many times just for their jamming session.

[@officalhumblefish565]

The Beatles man

[@TitaniusAnglesmith]

@@officalhumblefish565 That's why he never thought they could sound good together. Because he only heard them together in the Beatles! 😂

[@jorgitoislamico4224]

Have you never heard Paint It Black?

[@Eclipse52776]

Jones made it work

[@sashasmokes721]

Dude... you need to listen to The Tea Party

[@WhiffenC]

That guy freaking rips! Beautiful sounding instrument too!

[@plugpanda468]

Sitar derived from "Veena" the instrument of Hindu Goddess Saraswati ( Goddess of knowledge ). Indeed it have to be celestial ❤

[@irose4066]

Some ancient novels say, one lady in kingdom, bring leaf 🍃 in dead tree by using this instrument…..that’s how magical this instrument is…… I think he is so good and nicely explained to new learners.

[@Crimit]

Love seeing two pro musicians just jam. These videos are my highlight of the day whenever they release!

[@firstletterofthealphabet7308]

when you see the member comments but at the same time are broke 😭

[@TheBanana93]

@@gustarrezende There is no better feeling than playing with another musician and syncing up. Not even sex.

[@telequacker-9529]

For 20 minutes I felt blessed to witness the vanguard of the synthesis of human culture... and it made me grab my guitar and play for a moment. that part is priceless

[@nathanjasper512]

@@TheBanana93 That's why you need to date musicians so you can jam while having sex 😂

[@Koruvax]

It's like a platonic love story. Pure joy even to watch it happen.

[@chickenzwings]

That sitar player has got to be one of the most skilled musicians I've ever seen. That was awesome

[@dnlamp382]

yeah man and such an amazing nice guy, what a great video

[@ranjanbiswas3233]

Sitar players are considered Ustaad(having god like skill) for a reason.

[@killakame-3434]

Search 🔎 for *Devine Layakari Shahid Parvej* To see what a Sitar and a Sitarist capable of.

[@michaelmccoy1794]

@@killakame-3434 Actually the MASTER of sitar is Ravi Shankar.

[@obdeisibcirrus993]

@@michaelmccoy1794 the true master is Ustad Vilayat Khan

[@memyselfandeye76]

Although my brain is about burst into flames trying to understand how the sitar is played, it's one of my favorite instruments to listen to. It conveys so much emotion and depth. Depending on what is beginning played, it sounds as if its crying

[@unwanted107]

Crying, laughing, shouting in Joy. Yes

[@versus1156]

Sitar is known in India which can express human emotion.

[@GarretHunt]

@@versus1156 that makes so much sense. I only recently learned about this instrument but it caught my attention because of how much I can feel it emotionally. It is very powerful. So lovely.

[@sagnikadhya3425]

It's not too complicated , practice is what matters

[@Chenglei-]

​​@@unwanted107 I think almost every instrument can express emotions.

[@Benzy670]

10:43 is a fusion I NEED more of. I REALLY liked that. I was vibing!

[@addisonshinedown]

Abhik is clearly a brilliant player, but I’m distracted by how infectious his smile is! He seems like such an incredibly fun person!

[@lhtyeehaw1319]

Yeah, he's so cool

[@jayferler4617]

Ikr I was thinking he had a lovely smile!!

[@lacey892]

gosh yes he just seemed so warm and gentle

[@motherisape]

All indian classical musicians smile that way . I don't know why . It seems like part of show

[@yoganshbhatt]

@@motherisape or maybe part of them . Indian classical music has its influence on a person's personality and development just as much as the music develops with the musician and not to forget how he/she gives the instrument itself a personality when Played!

[@kaynesantor8136]

Dude, those were some sick jams. And honestly, it seemed so natural and easy. That dude is definitely a pro and you can tell he just loves and lives to play. Amazing stuff. You should totally feature him on a proper track. I dig it. Nice work guys.

[@MainPrism]

I was thinking the same thing. Write an actual track and have him play in it too. I'd put that on repeat!

[@blakelowrey9620]

Man rob scallion finds the best people to show all these instruments. I wonder how he finds them

[@adisaikkonen]

I'd listen to a full album of these jams tbh

[@MuzikJunky]

Word! So much joy all around! Peace.

[@bstnlcge2662]

Seemed natural and easy because it is natural and easy to improvise on top of a drone. As long as you play the right scale, anything sounds good. Of course this guys knows his stuff, can't deny he's a skilled musician.

[@thomasmaagaard]

This dude is simultaneously super calm and super metal.

[@theelectricant98]

Honestly thats how metalheads are too

[@Davett53]

This is so cool! I began to like sitar music when I first heard The Beatles, incorporate it in the 60s and early 1970s, when I was in high school. Then, later in college I found a cassette that was an "introduction to Sitar music" produced by Ravi Shankar, where he narrates, describing each element of the sitar, chords and notes and each of the drum-like rhythm instruments. He explained that "we should consider it to be like Jazz", and to listen to it with an open mind. I kind of fell in love the sounds and even to this day, in 2023, I still have that cassette, which I play on special occasions. To set the mood, I dim the lights and burn incense. Ravi had such a soothing voice to listen to. I felt like he was guiding me through a meditation. Thanks to You Tube, I have found even more sitar music to "groove" to. Thank you for this video, as I had never seen the instrument explained and demonstrated to this level.

[@kirenswilbury6777]

People usually look at me like I’m a weirdo when I say that I listen to the Introduction to Sitar Music from time to time. It’s so relaxing and complex at the same time. Also huge respect to George Harrison for bringing the sitar and some elements of eastern music to rock, his contribution to the guitar techniques and the overall sound of most mainstream 60-70’s music is immeasurable and is very underrated

[@goatsplitter]

Ravi is great! Really cool that you mention that, as a much younger person, to share that finding. Right on!! ✌🏾

[@Anonymous-8080]

Ravi Shankar was our neighbour

[@Davett53]

@@Anonymous-8080 Wow,...really? To have known him, would have been a blessing. (He fathered musician Nora Jones, who has the voice of an angel). His other daughters carry on his musical legacy. One of them performs with Nora Jones, on sitar.

[@mertdokur87]

awesome recommendation man, thanks for that.

[@smolus0512]

The sitar player is an amazing musician, whenever rob played a melody during a jam the guy just instantly picked it up by ear. Amazing!

[@nomnom112]

In hindustani classical music, There is a lot of importance put on 'swar gyan', literally 'note knowledge' which is basically the ability of recognizing each note of the scale. A great example would be listening to singers improvise. They sing notes by their names (sa = do, re=re, ga=mi, fa=fa,etc) so you can tell they're not just singing whatever note comes to mind, but know exactly which notes they're singing).

[@agnidas5816]

@@nomnom112 saregama and doremi do not tell you the note name. They give you an idea of relative position. You still don't know what sound/frequency it is. Don't learn music by that method - it is terrible and makes you not understand keys and notes like you don't. Learn the grand staff.

[@shailshah19]

@@agnidas5816 if u know what scale u are referring to ull know the exact key to play !

[@theouterinn]

[@areascoda2912]

@@agnidas5816 sorry bro, I 100% disagree with you. one will be at an advantage by learning Saregama.

[@mattdelaney9418]

Never underestimate Robs ability to make something metal.

[@Danumurti18]

Check out Freak Kitchen "teargas jazz", you might like it.

[@blufu8727]

First three minutes and I found myself laughing along with their conversation. It feels so natural and comfortable. Heartwarming. I think that's what lured me into your videos. The genuine laugh and just people enjoying each other's company.

[@KazeMemaryu]

The Sitar is a very imposing, yet majestic instrument. I love the unique, flowing sound, and the elegant design of the instrument!

[@KRPeloquin]

I need an EP with you two, those little jams were just magical sounding. Sitar and Acoustic really compliment each other!

[@ghostagent3552]

@robscallon

[@Nae_Ayy]

​@@ghostagent3552 ⠀⠀⠀⠀

[@collinbeal]

I have an album for you. A Meeting By the River by Ry Cooder and V.M. Bhatt. V.M. Bhatt plays a mohan veena made from a retrofitted Hawaiian archtop guitar. Think somewhere between a sitar and a lap steel

[@TheZoragon]

It's time for sitar metal: redux.

[@DrScythe]

@@collinbeal Thank you for this suggestion, it's fantastic

[@waifuhunter420]

For anyone interested in hearing Western instrumentation blended with Indian classical music, I cannot more highly recommend the album Junun by Shye Ben Tzur, Jonny Greenwood (of Radiohead fame) and the Rajasthan Express. It is a combination of Northern Indian raga, Sufi Islam Qawwali, with lyrics in Hebrew, Hindi, and Urdu. Still remains one of my favorite albums of all time.

[@AstroDash42]

@Nathan Brichita Any recommendations on Western music played WITH Indian instruments?

[@kichkandi734]

👍

[@cloogleflurmf6698]

Thank you so much I'll give it a listen.

[@jonransdell]

Magic Carpet is a folk band from the early 70s that has an awesome lead singer, sitar, acoustic guitar and tabla. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a blend of Indian/western music.

[@shannum23]

@@AstroDash42 You can listen to Tushar Lall. You'll find him here on youtube. He uses a blend of western and Indian instruments to perform a rendition of some famous tunes from movies like Dark Knight Theme, Interstellar Theme, Pirates of The Caribbean Theme etc.

[@vanedge]

That duet a 7:15 is amazing. Absolutely beautiful.

[@aesthetic_reels_page]

Indian classical music is so peaceful ❤

[@dallesamllhals9161]

IT can be...

[@fleef69]

These are genuinely some of the most wholesome videos on this entire platform

[@samus88]

I always say that about Rob's educational series about instruments. It truly is wholesome. Just seeing Rob's enjoyment when a professional teaches him about their instrument, and when said professional sees Rob pick it up almost immediately (except say for the sax lol) is enough to get me going for the day.

[@ShaunPrince]

Wow, Abhik Mukherjee has the most patient and peaceful demeanor. This was a good one, Rob.

[@brainstew8922]

There's something very unique and beautiful about the sitar and the guitar together.

[@noonespecial4171]

Sitar is the most beautiful music on earth, I've listened for almost 4 decades and it's so uplifting and rich.

[@azxtnt]

This is cool, I’ve never actually seen much about a sitar before

[@brendaoluwalana186]

I agree! My curiosity just jumped me right into attentive listening ("quiet coyote" anyone?) and remained until the end!

[@iwontliveinfear]

The sitar is one of my favorite instruments to listen to, and has been since my early childhood. I used to sneak away to the local Hindu temple just to listen to the music, but I've never known anything about it other than "It is from India" and "I love the way it sounds".

[@digitaljanus]

Learning that it has movable frets blew me away.

[@azxtnt]

@@digitaljanus yeah that part was kinda crazy

[@ranjanbiswas3233]

@@iwontliveinfear "I used to sneak away to the local Hindu temple just to listen to the music" Elderly hindus will love you for that. Young hindu people aren't that interested in listeing to such music. What a waste.

[@michaelskasick1560]

The sitar is one of my favorite instruments. The sounds it makes evoke so much relaxed joy for me! Long live Indian classical music!

[@shrikanthbpurohit5770]

Check ustad Ajmal khan videos

[@JOHN-tk6vl]

FAVOURITE.

[@Pow3llMorgan]

It's a very strange but also very pleasant, almost magical vibe.

[@cashwin45]

@@Pow3llMorgan You don't have to call it "strange" just because it's something you (or the West in general) are not very used to :) although I get where you're coming from

[@Pow3llMorgan]

@@cashwin45 I say "strange" as purely a subjective term. It's strange to _me_ is what I meant :)

[@JamesDeanLP]

I was never a huge fan of sitars but I need one now I never realized how amazing they sound

[@Artiflex31]

Same pinch ❤😂

[@BlackHawkTejas]

That's because you have never experienced it!

[@Yourmomma568]

I've now learned that Sitar is the most metal acoustic instrument. Ngl, it sounded really dope. I'd listen to a metal album with him playing on every tune.

[@JTMusicbox]

Love how relaxed and disarming these reviews of otherwise intimidating instruments are. Also love the comedic transition for the sponsor.

[@brawnotron6684]

Yes! Also funny about the sponsor; Who needs “better help” when your current therapist is Rob Scallon content.?

[@better.better]

me too even though I skip the rest. At least this sponsorship is more of a well-intentioned sponsor and not some corporate shill. I think @Rob Scallon should do what Rick Beato does and set up his own sort of patreon-like option (maybe call it the Electric Shovel Club)... I would much rather support somebody directly than watch ads, and if I want to support somebody I'd rather most of my money goes to the actual person I'm supporting, rather than some middleman like Patreon (or other crowdfunding options) getting a huge cut. Jake's movie is kind of a different situation. he's trying to get funding from a lot of people that maybe haven't seen his previous projects in addition to the people who have. (congratulations again Jake by the way)

[@Ivannbeats]

@@brawnotron6684 you could be depressed by the talent of those two, we never know

[@Roxfox]

As overused as the phrase is, these videos are one of the few things that legitimately restore my faith in humanity. No matter how bad things get, how bleak the world decides to be that day, every time I watch these, they remind me of how much culture and history, how much expression and emotion and joy there is in all corners of the world, all around us, all the time. Then I can calm down for a few moments and feel good about being part of the human race. In spite of everything, I do feel good about most of us. I do love most of you. It's crazy that music can do that. But your videos are proof that everyone can feel it, no matter who we are, no matter where are roots are, no matter what instrument we pick up. That's what makes it work.

[@paradox9551]

Love you too, friend.

[@Rwko.]

Lovely comment,I appreciate you

[@TheSteinbitt]

You sound quite anti social and depressed. Perhaps seek out some help?

[@thatbirbfriend2180]

The bad ruin it for the rest of us

[@jadonbeard08]

The jam at 7:15 has no reason being as beautiful as it is

[@indicphilosopher8772]

Loved that too❤

[@himanshu3103]

My personal favorite

[@wazy1852]

? If so can someone tell what is it called?

[@himanshu3103]

@@wazy1852 what?

[@LincolnDWard]

@@wazy1852 They were improvising - it's not an actual written song

[@marvinbolanos4774]

Recently just got playing my electric guitar again and watching these video motivated me to continue playing without a long pause 💯🎸

[@prathamtawar1163]

Same with my acoustic

[@Riley88990]

It’s crazy to think how much the sitar has directly and indirectly impacted the way the guitar/bass is played in the US

[@general9064]

Yeah, probably thank to Ravi Shankar

[@ashker3389]

@@general9064 Ravi was only seen because of the limelight. Many unsung heroes contributed much to the influence.

[@you_tubeslonelyheartsclubband]

@@general9064 I think they're talking about the way it's plucked(using the finger like pizzicato on string instruments/bass or fingerstyle on guitar).

[@maffooo2040]

The guitar is much older than the sitar though, but it think some of the bending is inspired

[@sombrata4036]

@@maffooo2040 no sitar is older and the predecessor of the sitar the Veena extends to 1000bce

[@ninjaasmoke]

I've been a guitarist for about 4 years now, the Sitar sounds soo heavenly. Such subtlety and Novelty

[@GarretHunt]

That's a great way to describe it. Heavenly indeed.

[@vikasbirla5798]

I’m doing post graduation in hindustani classical music and i play sitar in my university and can say that this is one of the most beautiful sounding instruments. I have both guitar and sitar and i enjoy playing both.

[@sandipkudesia]

Both outstanding musicians here. Thanks Rob for this series of videos. Ardent fan of you and your immense talent. Stay blessed always.

[@rob0nemusic369]

I would be interested by a prog album, with Rob Scallon on the electric guitar, and Abhik on the sitar

[@gangesbigmac]

King Gizzard did a similar thing with Float Along - Fill Your Lungs, I’m assuming this is what you are referencing

[@stellaotto5654]

Hell yeah

[@samueljella7218]

This touched my heart.sitar was always in my house. My father played on Hyderabad radio in 1950s.

[@TedSchoenling]

Rob, you're channel has progressed from something that was fun and funny to a celebration of music in all its forms and instruments. I've enjoyed being along for the ride and really love the turn things have taken.

[@robertholtz]

What a pleasure and privilege to witness two masters unite in mutual respect and musical synchrony. Together, you achieved stunning moments of true bliss and resounding gratitude. Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world.

[@quinn7894]

Music Timestamps (now outdated) 0:12 Introduction 7:15 Jam #1: Major 9:16 Jam #2: Minor 10:37 Jam #3: Mezrab 12:51 Jam #4: Motif 13:49 Jam #5: Metal 15:09 Song #1 15:46 Song #2 17:29 Showoff 19:12 Song #3 19:54 Jam #6: Tabla 21:12 Jam #7: Finale Edit: It appears he trimmed some of the video out, so these are the new timestamps. 0:08 Introduction 5:26 Jam #1: Major 7:27 Jam #2: Minor 8:48 Jam #3: Mezrab 11:02 Jam #4: Motif 12:00 Jam #5: Metal 13:20 Song #1 13:57 Song #2 15:40 Showoff 17:23 Song #3 18:05 Jam #6: Tabla 19:23 Jam #7: Finale

[@Unknowntraveler302]

The 10:37 sounds like a Tom Clancy movie of the Iraq war

[@retr0307]

the metal segment is a tool song

[@Unknowntraveler302]

@@retr0307 huh yep I can hear it

[@PodoShmodo]

15:46 does anyone know what song is that? Or it was just improvisation?

[@Unknowntraveler302]

@@PodoShmodo just improv as far as I know

[@SmolFenFen]

he just looks so effortlessly relaxed while he plays

[@apoorv_sharan]

There's so much to Indian classical music that what meets the eye. I'm thankful you explored a tiny but integral part of it.

[@trisharaichatterjee2578]

I am at the Bengali couldn’t be happier that I found a Bengali sitar player. American, born and raised and happy to say that the culture and arts that come from West Bengal is represented in this video. Thank you so much for representing my father side of the family.

[@cashwin45]

same (also with my lastname also being chatterji although spelled with an i instead of two e's), I was born and raised in the US and yet it made me so happy once I realized Abhik was Bengali and knowing of course that the most celebrated Sitar player, Ravi Shankar is Bengali I enjoyed this video so much more, especially because my dad used to play sitar music in the car all the time when I was younger and I never would appreciate it.

[@av1421]

Indian music and Indian classical music!!! West Bengal is not a separate country as you might want to think! Sitar players come from all over India!

[@cashwin45]

@@av1421 No one wants to think that. I'm proudly Indian just as I am West Bengali. I just felt glad to see a Bengali Sitar player especially because the Sitar has been incorporated heavily into Bengali music for ages. That's not to say other parts of India didn't play the Sitar too. You don't have to get mad just because us West Bengalis feel represented seeing this video :) Punjabis and Tamils brag all the time once they notice someone *happens* to just have a Punjabi or Tamil lastname, so why can't we at least acknowledge and be happy about the fact this guy is from our home-state? No one claimed to be superior to the rest of India or isolate WB from India. In fact, I hate people who think that the terms "Bangladeshi" and "Bengali" are synonymous, because that implies that Bengalis can never be Indian.

[@leonardfernando-qf7md]

Dear Sitharist, I am very glade that you have explained the technique of the wonderful instrument , “ Sithar” I am extremely thankful to you for explaining the passive strings getting resonated with the playing strings! I wish you all the Best, kindest Regards! Leonard Fernando. Srilanka.

[@PierrePblais]

I was lucky enough to go to a few different concert organized by the Indian community here in Montréal, where they would bring some very famous musician. The majority of the audience in those concerts was mostly of south Asian descent, and the first few time I found it very interesting to pay attention to what in the music got the most reaction from the audience. I found it very interesting that with the sitar, it was the bends that got the most reactions! while the few westerners in the audience (myself included) would react to the shredding, that got very small reaction from the south Asian audience compared to the bends.

[@prometheus4616]

That probably comes from the fact that Indians classical music put a lot more emphasis on the journey of notes. A Raga becomes a raga after it reaches a particular note after going through other notes.

[@HeartOScience]

insightful 👍

[@gabelanz9188]

We need a metal track with Sitar and with you guys collabing together. 10/10 would listen!

[@challenger4157]

There's literally a band called Sitar Metal if you wanna check it out.

[@groovemoustache]

Also check out Hashshashin (written as is, not "Hashashin" but "Hashshashin"), an Australian Post-Metal band that uses a lot of Middle Eastern instruments and composition techniques.

[@jonransdell]

Check out the band Agam, they're an Indian rock band that uses traditional singing and sometimes traditional instruments.

[@jacks0n90]

@@groovemoustache INDIA is NOT the middle east ! We are NOT Arabs !

[@J.C...]

There are plenty of metal songs with sitar in it.

[@bradlucid]

the way Abhik Mukherjee times when to pop out a riff, the way he articulates it and the notes he chooses makes it very apparent that he is well-versed in improvisation on his instrument. I would imagine that he definitely evokes frequent Eastern versions of the 'stank face' from his band mates during a jam session

[@TheJohnnyh13]

The guy with the sitar is the very best. The instrument seems to love him even more than he loves it.

[@proletariatbourgeoisie9929]

This fella's up there with the legend himself, Mr. Brandon Acker as one of the most pleasant, proficient guests I've seen on this channel. Some genuinely amazing, wholesome content right here

[@KnuckleHunkybuck]

The music they play at 7:14 is absolutely gorgeous. I've already listened to it like 3 times, and I'm sure I'll listen to it many more.

[@user-en6xs2nu7w]

You can find this type of happy and uplifting music (Sitar+Guitar) in many Indian songs. One suggestion for you try listening "Abar Fire Ele" from movie "Dwitiya Purush" try listening from the start. I'm sure you will feel the charm.

[@KnuckleHunkybuck]

@@user-en6xs2nu7w I just listened to it, and the general feeling I get from it is a little more like bittersweet longing, and the tone of the one they freestyle in this video at 7:14 is pure unadulterated joyfulness. But it is a beautiful song; thanks for the recommendation.

[@user-en6xs2nu7w]

@@KnuckleHunkybuck Welcome 👍🏻

[@deliciousredmango]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppDdmZ2BZdVriM0 Do you consider this joyful?

[@KnuckleHunkybuck]

@@deliciousredmango No, it sounds more wistful or nostalgic to me.

[@shquankinket8068]

16:27 everytime rob trys a new instrument he always plays such heartwarming music, i wish i knew enough about theory to find a tuning for those chords on guitar id make so much stuff with them

[@drutgat2]

Re-stringing my Kharaj Pancham (19 string) sitar was an experience I will never forget! Made me sympathetic to those who string harps and pianos.

[@artemis2947]

The Sitar is such a beautiful instrument to listen to

[@ho-leesheet5923]

Its dog water

[@artemis2947]

@@ho-leesheet5923 Using "dog water" to describe something you dislike, there's no way you're any older than 12.

[@anklemonitor]

These videos are so chill and fascinating. Keep em' coming please.

[@lakshmipramod4085]

What a combo❤ 5:25 emotional one 7:26 mixed feelings 8:47 intense one 12:00 mixed one again

[@thecringequeen31]

Intense*

[@chevyyeeter]

no. 12:00 is oblivions peak by knocked loose

[@Patriotic_Hindu]

​@@chevyyeeterthat sounds like Indian music combined with American wild west background music

[@tusharmeshram7500]

The section from 7:15 - 8:07....AAAAHHHHH!!!!!! man...How soothing music can be😌😌 Everytime I come to this video, drag it to this part, close my eyes, just smile hearing it and never want it to end. ❤

[@tusharmeshram7500]

5:26 - 6:20 (New) video was cut short for some reason.

[@5FeetUnder__]

16:32 reminded me of Iroh's song for his deceased son in that special episode of Avatar (for Mako). Goosebumps and tears...

[@ronanjenkins2323]

Totally man!!

[@haleywharton1283]

I also heard little soldier boy!!

[@findango]

Those bending notes are so ethereal sounding. It's a lovely instrument.

[@Bharat_Pathik]

The behaviour of this Sitarist shows how humble Indian artists are, even if Scallon fails to follow him, he calmly adjusts his fingers with Scallon. Ravi Shankar has been adjudged the best in West for the qualities he had, this man is on to his path as well.

[@evangrimminck2248]

It was mentioned that the sitar is meant to be played with tablas. Also improvised. Not too take from his character, but I think adjusting to the music and being present is the whole vibe

[@shashankbj3804]

There are many in India .. I do not judge some to be better than others but some surely get more famous than others! it is not really a reflection of skill (Not that they're not skilled enough but its sure is sad, everyone is missing out).

[@niketmhatre6035]

How amazing that sitar takes over guitar…. And when we listen closely, guitar plays like background music and sitar becomes a hero ingredient

[@Wapohead]

I love the fact you aren't a one trick pony metal shredder! I was raised on a staple of folk rock (CSN, Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, etc.), metal/hard rock (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Led Zep, etc.), classical, and most importantly - The Beatles. When listening to George Harrison's few compositions that actually made it on an album and hearing songs that had (that odd twangy sounding, yet peaceful instrument) sitar as the focus of the songs, that led me to eastern music. I became very familiar and eventually a huge fan of Ravi Shankar. Almost 50yrs later, I have been around the world and have met and partied with the likes of Slayer, Steve Vai, Megadeth, Anthrax, In Flames, local musicians/bands in various countries and so many others. But the ONE thing I haven't been able to do is sit in an intimate setting and listen/learn from masters as you get to do. In a sense I envy you, but envy is foolish. I am just incredibly happy there are content creators, such as yourself, that share such wonderful experiences with others! So much respect ✌

[@killakame-3434]

Search 🔎 for *Devine Layakari Shahid Parvej* To see what a Sitar and a Sitarist capable of.

[@yukikofujiwara2144]

This needs to be its own show on a paid streaming service, just going over an instrument every episode. Also, the sitar metal was awesome.

[@trombonesarecool1]

I loved the little jam they did in the middle! It really is cool to see different string instruments from different cultures playing together

[@dynoalt1213]

That 13:51 💀. Yeah take my money and gimme a whole piece of that please. Just do it

[@m16s19]

that's from Knocked Loose - Oblivion Peak

[@mailliwi]

Abhik is so smiley and it made my Saturday morning after a rough week. That was such a pleasnt guest on your channel!

[@PaulTheSkeptic]

I own a sitar but I rarely practice. I love Indian music especially sitar music. I find it almost hypnotic. It's kind of like a different way to listen to music.

[@gautamv952]

For an apparent Sitar novice, I must say Rob literally struck the right note at the outset. Beautiful melody at 15:50, for instance. 👏

[@papastalin69]

i love how rob can see a stringed instrument and just know how to play it flawlessly. doesn’t matter what corner of the globe it’s from, just that it’s got strings and can be played. i honestly wouldn’t be surprised if he could play an instrument from outer space

[@matthewtop]

Best jams you've done with a guest in my opinion Rob. The metally sounding jams was like krautrock!

[@firstletterofthealphabet7308]

the energy between rob and all of the professionals he’s been with so far is absolutely immaculate✨

[@nasidctg]

I'm a Bangladeshi, now living in LA. I learnt to play the flute from my grandpa who could also play the Sitar. I did learn to play the Guitar but I do regret not learning the Sitar, especially from my grandpa when he was around. I have intentions of learning this magnificent instrument and play some tunes to honor my late grandfather.

[@elyjoh3645]

At 7:16 that jam sound so spiritual and majestic at the same time

[@Anonymous-8080]

They are just talking @timestamp

[@DougSalad]

What an absolutely charming guy, what absolutely wonderful music, and what a great video.

[@SoCalGuitarist]

Hey Rob, thanks for revisiting the sitar with this series. The videos you did with the sitar a few years ago are a lot of fun, but this video hits different, having a pro sitar player explain so much behind the sound and theory is truly a joy. Thanks again for doing this, I really enjoyed it and learned a lot too!

[@butchdecker9104]

What I love about your channel is the absolute love, joy, and respect that you and all of the artists that you interact with show to music. I grew up in the home of a musician and remember all of the times that other musicians would visit. So many times I fell asleep while they were all still sitting and jamming.

[@phantomprism7659]

This has been one of the most positive, inspiring and heartwarming videos I've seen in a while. Two different people, from different cultural backgrounds and two different styles of instruments and musicality coming together to share in their mutual love of music as a whole. Powerful stuff!

[@pAWNproductionsDE]

This series fills me with so much wholesome joy. Seeing two musicians from two very different backgrounds talking music and playing together will never not make me smile

[@Tatertots13]

13:49 am I crazy or is that knocked loose in open tuning and on a sitar?! Oblivions Peak never sounded better?!

[@fuzzboi2712]

Woah

[@metallhirn]

I was looking for a comment mentioning this :D

[@DrDingsGaster]

Yeah that was dope!

[@fuguthefish]

yes it is!!

[@koli5077]

Somebody make a metal song outta it.

[@PeterJRadomski]

The two of you have done an amazing job of presenting, explaining and demistifying this instrument in under half an hour. I can't believe how much I learned in so little time. Excellent job!

[@IBartOnAir]

This is my absolute favourite video of yours. The insightful commentary mixed with the lovely interludes of music is great.

[@JohnCheese53]

I wish the sitar showed up more in western music, it sounds so nice and unique and is instantly recognizable.

[@216trixie]

It tried in the late 60's.

[@JohnCheese53]

@@216trixie yeah, the Beatles were my first exposure to the sitar

[@gabotron94]

@@216trixie to be fair we tried pretty much everything about that time

[@TheBanana93]

The western world is just too ignorant.

[@gabbro2290]

The band beats antique has one sometimes

[@Anteman]

There's so much Passion in this. Passion for music, passion for learning, passion for sharing said passion. Rob, Abhik. Best of luck and infinite love from sweden!

[@sarifatosman]

9:20, The guitar got Lost in the richness of the sitar!

[@nicolec2483]

Simply love the way the two of you were interacting. Language of music unites people. Plus the instruments are awesome in their own league. Plus the tutor and taught both are humble and love their respective crafts and mutual respect.

[@apoorv_sharan]

Rob has ascended all musicality and now can play the Tabla bass and the guitar at the same time.

[@emilyrln]

It's such a treat to see two skilled musicians inspired by each other's talent vibing together, swapping instruments and trying new things! One of my favorite series on KZbin.

[@Corkoth55]

I've watched a lot of vids casually, from the amazing pipe organ in chicago, to the carillon, to this beautiful display. It's enough to make your eyes water. It's about time I subscribed.

[@dyllnye]

The eclectic instrument videos are so great. Watching two people share their love for music and culture/history and playing techniques associated with their communities instruments is such a pure and beautiful thing to watch

[@armeddrill1]

I love how rob just jams and the visiting musicians enjoy how quick he picks it up!

[@meffcio]

That jam at 7:15 was suh-weeeeet! Also thank you for finally covering the sitar. I've been in love with its sound for all my life.

[@meffcio]

Actually, all of the jams were amazing. Such a great video.

[@doctorpanigrahi9975]

What's the name of that music ? Please help !

[@mattiecreates]

This was an amazing interaction, im glad it was filmed. Beautiful playing from both.

[@zukoHD]

i didnt expect to enjoy this so much, this has got to be one of my favorite jam sessions of yours. you guys vibed and matched movement on those cool little ideas so well.

[@psychedelia6891]

Reminds me of how some of the psychedelic bands in the 60s felt about this incredible instrument

[@deebo1186]

Like G. Harrison and Ravi Shankar

[@Si74l0rd]

Yeah, the Stones Their Satanic Majesties has a ton of sitar on, a very different sounding album to the more commonly known rock songs. Their psychedelic period was pure magic!

[@samstrathearn3344]

The quintessential psychedelic folk band of the 60s is The Incredible String Band. Their sitar infused folk songs inspired the Beatles and Rolling Stones

[@WuKingdom1]

As a musician, these videos are so friggin' cool. To give light to these instruments and show how beautiful they really can be, it really almost bring a tear to my eyes. Music is a beautiful thing

[@GerinoMorn]

Possibly best collab song ever, the stuff around 12:00 was just fire

[@priteshkanojiya1694]

This video deserves so much love! The melodies are mesmerizing and the way they both are enjoying every bit of it has its own charms. 👍