HuDost, a Neo Folk World Rock Ensemble from Montreal and Nashville, is a unique band. I first saw them at Bhakti Fest West last year where they had the distinction of being the first band to bring a Sufi dancer on stage — it was mesmerizing. HuDost’s core musicians are Moksha Sommer and Jemal Wade Hines. Moksha, the lead singer and primary songwriter, is an incredible vocalist & performer. She’s studied 12 different vocal styles from around the world, and sings Bulgarian and Balkan music with Montreal based ‘Dragana’. She also studies east Indian classical voice with Pandit Mukesh Desai. As a fellow vocalist I was in awe.

The other half of HuDost — guitarist, singer/songwriter, percussionist and producer Jemal Wade Hines — has studied poly-rhythms, alternate tunings and different World musics and is deeply steeped in the rock genre. His stage presence & interaction with his wife Moksha onstage is magnetic & makes for a compelling performance. It was a memorable set in every way.

Chantlanta itself was a revelation — a festival funded entirely by volunteer seva & donations. The spirit of selfless devotion can be felt in the very fiber of the weekend, and it is special indeed. The energy of the Atlanta kirtan community is deep, alive, vibrant — and it didn’t exist 5-years ago. The growth & spirit of the community is inspiring. They have it going on, and their sweet Love-filled heart is radiating through the deep South.

I loved re-living some of the sweetness of Chantlanta through this set — I hope you do too. Until next time dear friends.

PS: Here’s the link to the clearance area at Old Delhi Music. Nic is always adding new items, and if you need something specific please contact him directly.