Ron Cha, Assamese pianist and composer, on May 20, 2022, released his album Maati across all music streaming platforms.

The album features iconic Assamese singer Kalpana Patowary, folk singer Biren Deuri, African guitarist Lionel Loueke, Hungarian drummer Ferenc Nemeth, popular bassist Mohini Dey and Alexander Toth, Saxophone maestro Jacques Schwarz-Bart from Guadeloupe and Mylai  Karthikeyan on Nadhaswaram from Tamil Nadu.

Speaking at the launch Ron Cha said, “Maati is a journey through the folk music of Assam, India. For centuries, Assamese folk has been creating the most angelic melodies capturing the essence of their day to day lives."

"When I had the opportunity to delve into my own culture over the pandemic, I had the calling to document these beautiful melodies and make them my own with my Jazz, Soul and Gospel influences. ‘Maati’ translates to ‘homeland’ and this is my humble tribute to my roots," he added.

Personnel:

Ron Cha - Piano, Rhodes, Composer, Arranger, Producer

Kalpana Patowary - Vocals

Biren Deuri - Vocals

Lionel Loueke - Guitar

Jacques Schwarz-Bart - Saxophone

Mylai Karthikeyan - Nadhaswaram

Alexander Toth - Bass

Mohini Dey - Bass

Ferenc Nemeth - Drums

Dave Darlington - Mixing and Mastering

Jit Chaliha - Co-Producer

Christian DiGirolamo - PR