Peter Walker
Long Lost Tapes 1970
(Tompkins Square)

Recorded at Levon Helm's house in Woodstock in 1970, the only song title on Long Lost Tapes 1970 that even comes close to describing the music is track 2, "Camel Ride." All six tracks are contemplative, meditational South Asian-sounding music. This disc is short for today's standards at 36 minutes, but it was the norm for when it was recorded. Indian classical music is probably the most difficult and complex music ever invented, yet Walker's mastery of his instrument, and the conversion from the 21-23 strings, two bridges and movable frets of the sitar to six strings, one bridge and stationary frets is remarkable. The sheer artistry of Walker's playing is breathtaking and refreshing in today's world of so many mundane musicians. Of course, help from Maruga Booker, Perry Robinson, Badal Roy, Rishi and Mark Whitecage does round out the melodies.

This CD from the late Timothy Leary's musical director does not disappoint in the least. Walker's latest foray is into flamenco guitar, which he attacked with his usual determination and is now one of Andalucía's and Spain's elite. Since the roots of flamenco are East Indian it's a natural progression.