OK

OK is OK, until it isn’t. For me, that was about 5 songs. Once again, my rule of thumb for the list hasn’t been disproven: If you haven’t heard anyone talking about an album on this list in 25 years, you don’t need to hear it before you die.

Loads going on here, most of which I didn’t like. The album is tedious and gets progressively worse from start to finish. I wouldn’t say I hate it, but I certainly didn’t enjoy my listen and wouldn’t go back.

If Yanni and Kenny G had a baby, that baby would grow up to make music like this, have sex with Linda Evans and be a surprisingly decent golfer.

oh, you put South Asian instruments on top of your boring-ass techno. cool, i guess.

OK, Talvin. Talvin, OK. I legitimately don't understand what the hell I just listened to. But it wasn't enjoyable, I know that. Nope. Not at all. Sorry, Talvin. That's a no for me, dawg.

"The world is sound" Great eastern tonalities and rhythm that mix in with hard driving beats. Pulls in a lot of eastern music (Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, etc) Great beats.

The concept is fantastic! But if I was to record puppies sleeping and put it on an album, that might also sound like a great idea. I just couldn't get through it. Most likely not listen to it ever again.

OK is ambitious in scope and execution, simultaneously futuristic yet ancient in sound. A wonderfully layered fusion of styles and influences gives it a sense of timelessness. Equally at home on the dancefloor as it is on your headphones, this is a beautiful album.

BL: never heard of this artist before but the cover reminds me of the Roni Size brown paper bag album so I’ll be interested to hear if it’s in a similar vein AL: funnily enough, my 90s ambient DnB assumption was correct, and wow. This album blew me away. I wasn’t too sure about the opener, but by track 3 this album had me in a chokehold. The fusion of ambient DnB & Sourh Asian instrumentals and vocals was mesmerising, the drone of DnB was meant to go with the resonant frequencies of the sitar. Definitely some Bhangra influence in there too. Highly recommend this. It reminds me of another comment I saw under a different album (can’t remember which one though), with albums like this on the generator, you have to wonder why the people who wrote those chose so many 80s new wave and post punk albums. FT: “Eclipse”, “O.K.”, “Light”, “Vikram the Vampire” 5/5

I really enjoyed the drops and the multicultural influence. "OK" was the best track rightfully so, but there were a few other stand outs as well that covered a variety of energies

Really tried but couldn't get into this one.

This. Is. Madness.

Craptastic. 1.7/10

This is a superb album. I loved it in the early 2000s and while I prefer Ha!, this is a really great album too.

this fucks

OK! Loved it. Cool fusion of eastern sounds with electro beats. Can't believe it's from 1998.

This is a very refreshing album this morning, Travelor is very busy yet free at at the same time. Its lush sound really just hit right today.

Loved it, my new everyday listen

Love this! It’s a must listen to, chilled out, sits there and makes you feel good type

5/5 - Really cool

Electronica,indian classical,exotica

Ambient, Drum & Bass and Classical Indian music meld to create a vision of a future that never came. Yes, the spoken word sections can come off as pretentious and some of the synths are cheesy, but it just adds to the charm. A forgotten artifact of Britain in the Y2K era.

At first sounded like post rock and then some indian (?) vocals came along as well. Interesting mix

Far better than native British electronic DJs from this list. I've enjoyed the softer tracks. The Indian spice adds very much to the whole composition. Something new for me.

No. 211/1001 Traveller 3/5 Butterfly 4/5 Sutrix 2/5 Mombasstic 2/5 Decca 2/5 Eclipse 2/5 OK 2/5 Light 4/5 Disser 3/5 Soni 2/5 Vikram the Vampire 2/5 Average: 2,55 Very interesting mesh of genres I never heard before. On most of the tracks I didn't work for me. Really enjoyed Butterfly and Light though.

This was good, drifted into irrelevance at times but overall enjoyable

My previous commentary got wiped out some how, but honestly, it was about as important as this album really is/was. That is to say, not so much. To sum it up, OK is hardly worth the time and is likely taking up a spot on this list that should be going to a far more deserving album. I'll give it 2 stars because there is some interesting live instrumentation on this album, but it's not enough to save the otherwise boring electronica album..

😫

A little bit too experimental for my taste. Some of the songs were a nice mix of modern and traditional but they quickly get too drawn out and weird. Felt like being in a washing machine of music.

First time listening to Talvin Singh. Interesting stuff. I appreciated the blending of world styles. Not my usually listen but I'm glad I heard it.

Super fun trance edm but with an eastern meditation vibe to it. Great listen.

Wow, brilliant. Loved this.

Weird but I like it

I was there too, the places Marco mentioned. We said नमस्ते to each other while floating into space

August 25, 2024 HL: “Traveller”, “Butterfly”, “Sutrix”, title track, “Light” Had low expectations going into this (the late 90s picks of this list are hit-or-miss imo), but it blew me away. Somehow equally fitting for a rave & a spa. I was worried when the grandeur of “Traveller” gave way to the dirty synths in “Sutrix”, but by the end I believed it was all part of the same artistic vision. For comparison, I didn’t always feel that way with Red Snapper and Nitin Sawhney from this list, era, and country (the UK, surprise surprise). An uneasy 5 stars from me

ggood

i have very little to go on here in terms of reference points but it turns out this guy is the missing link between late Siouxsie, early Bjork, and 2000s Madonna...true world music in the sense that it brings any and everything together in a blissful sonic landscape 10/10

The mix of drum n bass and India classical works so well together. What utter genius. This is a great relaxing listen if a bit on the long side (some drag near the end)

Very interesing sound!

Loved this combination of old and new.

Electronica,indian classical,exotica.

Surprisingly good.

innovative

My goodness what an interesting journey. Loved that.

Hey, this rips ass. Between this and Call of the Valley, I guess I’m just learning that I like Indian/Indian inspired music. Eclipse in particular goes hard.

Love it. Right up my electro weird avenue.

I'm happy I decided to start this journey of reviewing an album every day for 1001 days. Even if it feels tedious sometimes, knowing that every day I must listen to an album, even when the album isn't a good fit for my mood that day, or I just do not have the mental energy to gather an opinion or write anything, it all pays off when it recommends something amazing and very much up my alley that I wouldn't have found otherwise. This is one such album. It has more of that Indian and generally Asian flavour that I fell in love with when I was introduced to Nitin Sawhney's "Beyond Skin" earlier in the list. This is a crazy, trippy, dramatic journey that blends orchestra, Indian classical music, electronica, drum and bass, IDM, dub, and so many other genres. It's chaotic but never loses its direction. And yet, it's all pretty chill but never boring. Just a pure journey of sound with influences from across the globe. Favourite: Butterfly

Electronica,indian classical,exotica.

Unique style and combination of instruments give a relaxing ambient sound that I thoroughly enjoyed. An hour of soft groovy beats.

это что-то совсем не из этого мира невероятная энергетика, безумное смешение жанров, один заглавный трек альбома Traveller чего стоит незабываемая работа возможно, лучшая из этого списка

Как только я начал слушать альбом, то я понял: он или гениальный или говно. Здесь все же первый вариант. Очень необычные сочетания медитативной индийской музыки и хауса/IEM/техно. В результате одновременно получается, что тебя вгоняют в транс и заставляют танцевать/рейвить. Поэтому очень необычно и круто звучит и по сей день. Сэмплы чувак взял, конечно, мое почтение. А теперь субъективный обзор: я только встал и сел за стол работать. Хочется очень спать, работать даже особо не хочется и тут я думаю: хм, а может включить альбомчик послушать с утра, взбодриться. И когда я его включил, то я думал что я сейчас умру от душноты (реально, первую половину первой песни можно смело пропустить, имхо). Но слава богу дальше все норм было. Честно говоря, реально думал что сейчас еще хуже станет)))

Ахахаха, это слишком хорошо, чтобы оказаться 100ым альбомом! Ладно, теперь серьёзно: индийская музыка не от мира сего. У них свои гармонии, которые могут казаться неправильными (непривычными) на первый взгляд. Это интересно услышать и оценить, но на постоянку возможно будет тяжело. Опять же, говоря об индийской музыке, возможно присутствует навязанный Болливудом и мемами стереотип о том, как это должно звучать. Это не относится к этому альбому. Где-то это техно, где-то симфоническая музыка, где-то акустика. Всё и вся собрано здесь, но основывается на вот этой восточной музыкальной гармонии (тут пусть лучше Егор в подкасте расскажет, как у них интервалы устроены). Но сука))) c "The True Story Of Extasy" я конечно улетел, это просто ор. Ещё и вот этим индийским голосом из видосов по программированию... Альбом крутой по задумке, лёгкий по восприятию (настолько лёгкий, что когда после заиграл Apex Twin, я был уверен, что пластинка не закончилась). Я не готов поставить 5 за музыкальность, ибо вопросики остались, но готов поставить 5 за вклад в развитие индийской музыкальной культуры.

Альбом создаёт вокруг тебя какое-то новое пространство, которое заполняется всеми звуками мира, как будто. Однозначно не на постоянное присутствие в плейлисте, но иногда вернуться и переслушал вполне кайф

Electronica,indian classical,exotica.

I really enjoyed this album! It was unexpected and had elements from so many different genres that I enjoy.

9/10 super creative and definitely stands out from mainstream electronic/DnB with its Indian/Asian influence

This is a classic Indian fusion album

Epic

Quite a belter

My pretentious tastes are perfectly pandered.

## Overview of "OK" by Talvin Singh Released in 1998, *OK* is the debut studio album by Talvin Singh, an influential figure in the fusion of traditional Indian music with contemporary electronic sounds. The album not only showcases Singh's mastery of the tabla but also his innovative approach to music production, blending various genres to create a unique auditory experience. This review will delve into the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence while also evaluating its pros and cons. ## Lyrics **** Lyrical Content The lyrics in *OK* are often minimalistic and abstract, focusing on themes of connection and universality. The opening track, "Traveller," sets the tone with a spoken word introduction that emphasizes the idea that "the world is sound." This phrase encapsulates Singh's vision of music as a universal language, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. Many tracks feature vocal contributions that are more about texture than narrative. For instance, "Soni" employs a choir of female singers whose harmonies add depth rather than convey a specific story. This approach aligns with Singh's intent to create an immersive experience rather than a conventional lyrical journey. ## Music **** Musical Composition Musically, *OK* is a rich tapestry of sounds that blends traditional Indian instrumentation with modern electronic elements. The album is characterized by: - **Tabla**: As a classically trained tabla player, Singh uses this instrument to anchor many tracks, providing intricate rhythms that drive the compositions. - **Flute and Sitar**: Collaborations with musicians like Ryuichi Sakamoto and Rakesh Chaurasia introduce lush melodies that complement the rhythmic complexity. - **Electronic Beats**: The incorporation of drum and bass rhythms alongside bhangra beats creates a dynamic soundscape that feels both familiar and innovative. Tracks such as "Light" exemplify this fusion, combining Indian flute melodies with atmospheric electronic backdrops. The result is a sound that is both hypnotic and engaging. ## Production **** Production Techniques The production of *OK* reflects Singh's commitment to high-quality sound and innovative techniques. He spent nine months recording in various locations, including London and Okinawa, to capture diverse musical influences. Notable production elements include: - **Layering**: Singh expertly layers traditional instruments with electronic sounds to create depth. This technique allows for a rich listening experience where different elements can be appreciated on multiple levels. - **Field Recordings**: The use of field recordings adds an organic quality to the tracks, grounding them in real-world sounds that enhance their authenticity. - **Collaboration**: Singh's collaborations with various artists contribute to the album's eclectic sound. For example, Guy Sigsworth's keyboard work on "Traveller" adds a contemporary flair that complements the traditional elements. ## Themes **** Central Themes The overarching theme of *OK* revolves around cultural fusion and global connection. Singh aims to bridge Eastern and Western musical traditions, reflecting the multicultural landscape of late 1990s Britain. Key themes include: - **Unity through Sound**: The idea that music can connect people across different cultures is prevalent throughout the album. This is particularly evident in tracks like "Butterfly," which blends various musical styles seamlessly. - **Cultural Identity**: Singh explores his own identity as an Indian artist in Britain, using his music to navigate and celebrate this duality. - **Exploration**: Many tracks evoke a sense of journey or exploration, both musically and culturally. This theme resonates with listeners seeking new experiences through sound. ## Influence **** Impact on Music *OK* has had a lasting impact on both the Asian Underground movement and electronic music at large. By successfully merging traditional Indian sounds with contemporary genres like drum and bass and techno, Singh paved the way for future artists exploring similar fusions. The album won the Mercury Prize in 1999, further solidifying its significance within the music industry. Its inclusion in lists such as *1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die* highlights its critical acclaim and enduring relevance. Singh's work has influenced numerous artists across genres, encouraging them to experiment with cultural blends in their own music. His approach has inspired subsequent generations of musicians who seek to break down barriers between musical styles. ## Pros and Cons **** Pros - **Innovative Fusion**: *OK* successfully merges traditional Indian instrumentation with modern electronic music, creating a unique sound that stands out in both genres. - **High Production Quality**: The album features meticulous production techniques that enhance its overall listening experience. - **Cultural Significance**: It represents a significant moment in British music history, highlighting the contributions of immigrant artists to the cultural landscape. - **Critical Acclaim**: Winning the Mercury Prize and receiving positive reviews from major publications underscores its artistic merit. **** Cons - **Abstract Lyrics**: Some listeners may find the minimalistic lyrical content lacking depth or narrative engagement compared to more conventional albums. - **Niche Appeal**: The fusion of genres may not resonate with all audiences, potentially limiting its mainstream appeal. - **Pacing Issues**: Certain tracks may feel lengthy or meandering for listeners accustomed to more structured song formats. ## Conclusion Talvin Singh's *OK* is a groundbreaking album that successfully bridges cultural divides through music. Its innovative fusion of traditional Indian sounds with contemporary electronic elements creates an immersive listening experience that remains relevant today. While it may not appeal to every listener due to its abstract lyrics and niche soundscape, its critical acclaim and influence on subsequent artists affirm its place as a significant work in modern music history. Overall, *OK* stands as a testament to Singh's vision of unity through sound, inviting listeners on a journey through diverse musical landscapes.

Cool fusion music. Blog review called this "tabla tronics" or asian fusion music? I could see it. I liked that this was unique and spotlighted the tabla which I'm not too familiar with. I feel like 15 minutes could have been cut from this album to get me to enjoy it even more, some songs dragged on.

Quite good,

Very cool combination of Indian and dance

So sweet, so chill, so melodic! Really good on a relaxing day!

This is a good discovery, what an atmosphere he can create! From rhythm to melodies, this is a super interesting record.

What a wild mix of styles from across the globe. The general combination of electronic music with Indian classical is just a perfect compliment, and then he adds influences from a ton of other places to really put it over the top.

It was like a modern version of a jazz experience. I found the music deep and interesting. Also, the sub-bass was well used

Great background music

very interesting, diverse sound. I definitely enjoyed, more on the chill side and would like to listen more.

Honestly, this one is very hard to really review. I think your experience with it will really depend on what your mindset is when you hit play on that first track. I could sit here all day and list off how great the drum programming is. Or how the orchestral backdrops mixing with instruments and flavours from all around the world over solid electronica makes for a very unique experience. Or how the mixture of atmospheres will have you engaged for the entirety of the 1 hour+ length. I could. But I feel like 'OK' goes beyond just discussing the details, and more into the feelings and emotions Talvin Singh was attempting to convey to the listener. As someone who has recently gone on their own personal journey of self discovery in an attempt to fix myself and realize the importance of self acceptance, this album really spoke to me. As I listened in the darkness of a mid-October morning - before getting ready for the day - I almost felt like I was transported into a meditative state as the music played, despite how up-tempo most of tracklist is. This album is more than just music, it is a spiritual and artistic journey. Sometimes I tend to look at the overall reviews on this site before or while I listen to an album; and I was worried I wasn't going to like this. But after a complete listen I found the negative reviews are kind of baffling. But it's good to live in a world where we all have different tastes. 'OK' is honestly a great work of art featuring familiar elements that are typically incompatible, yet are ultimately forced to be; and the end result is something wonderful that you virtually never get to hear. I am very happy with this nice surprise the generator gave me today. 4/5

lovely

Good background sounds.

4/5. Beautiful and haunting, the techno beats give me an energy of danceable 90's horror that takes place in India. It's an interesting vibe and I dig it, upbeat classic beats and great samples/actual performances. There were definitely some misses as the performance was not good or it got a little too repetitive, mostly near the end. Overall though, a great album, especially for getting into this Indian music. Best Song: OK, Traveller, Sutrix

Cool Electronica, sounds of India. Imagine Mike Oldfield in India.

This album brought me places... I was constantly playing the game of guessing how certain sounds were made and what kind of instrument were used. Loved the second song specifically

Kinda weird, kinda cool. Felt like some D&B. Idk if I've ever listened to a full Indian album before this. Feeling generous so a 3.5 rounds up to a 4

When I read the description I realized I should play this through my main stereo. So glad I did and didn’t listen on a smaller device. The recording quality and complexity really benefited from the soundstage and imaging that a quality system can provide. Sounds jumping around the soundstage little details tucked in everywhere. This made for a great listening experience even if it is not a style I typically seek out. Won’t listen again, but so amazing that I did on this list.

Very cool and filmic, like a soundtrack to a number of different movies. I probably don't know enough to properly judge it, other than knowing I really liked it!

Interesting album, maybe a bit on the dated/trashy side, need to listen again in the future to properly grasp it.

Ok English/Indian sound

Heel mooi openingsnummer, duurt ook wel meteen 11 minuten, maar het is geen seconde saai! Sowieso echt craaaaazy muziek dit! Het is een soort psychedelische, elektronische Indiase fluitmuziek? Ok sorry, Eclipse is gewoon drum n bass En dit is echt de allerbeste shit die ik in tijden heb gehoord hahahaha Wat een fantastisch album is dit! Ik kende het niet, maar dit is zeker een leuke verrassing geweest! Ook totaal niet een album dat ik verwacht had in deze lijst. Is het een perfect album? Nee zeker niet, maar dit is absoluut 4 sterren waard! FAVO: Traveller, Butterfly, Eclipse, Light, Vikram the vampire

Again, this is why I'm doing this project. I had no idea this person existed and I totally enjoyed this album. Its a fun fusion of music.

Very good. Has a nice vibe.

It's surprising that I have never heard of Talvin Singh before. Very unique and original mix of electronic music and traditional indian elements. It got a bit boring in the second part of the record, but overall a very nice example of experiment going right.

I really enjoyed this album for how eclectic it was. I loved the story behind it and imagining where in the world each song was recorded as it came on. The combination of Western instruments like strings and the orchestral flute paired and juxtaposed with Indian instruments was beautiful and refreshing.

Really enjoyed listening to this. Added Light to my rotation. Absolutely one I’ll listen to again.

Easily my favorite Talvin Singh album-- he's made several good ones. I love the traditional sounds balanced by strings, tabla, and then the bass beats. Overall this is where traditional meets drum and bass or something like that. I dig it.

So, for the first part of this review, I want to say that this was actually a pretty good drum and bass album that was experimental with an ambient atmospheric sound. It also has a great story to it and all the traveling that went into creating this album. A lot of the production was pretty ahead of its time and experimental for the late 90s. It reminds me of a combination of 90s-style Squarepusher with 90s-style LTJ Bukem. The downside of this album is that although it had a great backstory and it’s an innovative album for people who are into the music and understand it, it also has the same monotone vibe throughout the entire album. Even for me, by the time the album was wrapping up, I was getting bored and burned out. For someone who is not into this style of music, I can definitely see how they will not like this album and they would get extremely bored of it. To be honest, that’s why I don’t really think it belongs on a list of 1001 albums you must hear before you die. This album is a very niche genre and audience that it appeals to and although it has a great story, almost everyone won’t resonate with the album.

I love this kind of genre and musical culture fusion!

Such a throwback to the pre 2000 feeling. Where the internet still felt new.

I liked this! Very vibey, kinda reminded me of something Bjork could sing over upon the first few tracks, then I researched the artist and realized he played on and contributed to Debut! Some of that same energy here, and I liked it a lot.

This was really kind of cool! Light, OK and Eclipse were my top three. It was amazing to see a blend of electronic, Indian and classical influences together in such a unique yet perfect manner. Light especially was so beautiful with the electronic beat emphasizing the melody that had classic vibes but played with an Indian instrument (I think) supported by Indian rhythms. Electronic is not my thing so I probably won't listen again, but I give this one props for being something I would say is influential and different to the music world (or at least my music world).

It could be the novelty of listening to something completely new and foreign to me, but I liked it! Trance like ambient music, but with toe tapping beats. I found it helped to focus on doing things that require focus, like a hard Wordle or yoga. I'll listen to this again, but in smaller doses, it's a lot at once. Particularly liked Butterfly, with the overlaying drumming and flute fluttering about.

Ok this is exactly the kind of stuff I was into in late middle school/early high school. Kinda new agey electronica. I seriously wondered if I would find that kind of stuff on here. I never came across this one but it gives me a very nostalgic feeling. It maybe deserves a 3 in all actuality because I have heard stuff in the genre of new age electronica I like more as a whole. But there are some really good tracks on here, and I really am glad something of that genre is on the list so I am inclined to rate it higher.

cool

3.5 some of the electronica got a little annoying but overall an enjoyable album

An interesting electronica album

Early dnb. Check. Indian instrumentation. Check. Orchestral flourishes. Check. Meandering, sparse and relaxed composition. Check. Loved it

Classical Indian music meets Electronica / Drum and Bass - music to chill to. I liked it.