Salt Rain cover

Salt Rain

Susheela Raman · 2001

58 min · 12 tracks · jazz

A fusion of Indian classical music and contemporary sounds, weaving ethereal melodies with rhythmic complexity.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Ganapati — This opening track showcases Raman's ability to blend devotional lyrics with a modern soundscape, setting the tone for the rest of the album. Its intricate rhythms and powerful vocals highlight her artistic vision.
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    Woman — In 'Woman', Raman addresses themes of empowerment and identity through a vibrant mix of traditional instrumentation and contemporary grooves. The track stands out for its lyrical depth and musical dynamism.
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    Salt Rain — 'Salt Rain' serves as the album's emotional centerpiece, featuring haunting melodies and evocative lyrics that reflect on longing and connection. Its atmospheric qualities encapsulate the essence of Raman’s artistry.
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    Trust in Me — This track presents a more intimate side of Raman’s songwriting, combining soft vocals with minimalist instrumentation to create an introspective moment on the album. It highlights her versatility and emotional range.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases a strong blend of Indian classical and jazz elements, creating a unique sound that stands out.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a traditional Indian invocation, setting a spiritual tone that persists through the use of classical instruments.
  • Vocals are present but often serve as an additional instrument rather than the primary focus, blending seamlessly with the instrumentation throughout most tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Woman

    The lyrics shift from personal narrative to collective experience, weaving individual stories into a broader commentary on women's strength.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Ganapati 6:43
  • 2 Maya 4:37
  • 3 Mamavatu 3:54
  • 4 Woman 4:25
  • 5 Mahima 7:31
  • 6 Trust in Me 3:24
  • 7 Bolo Bolo 2:13
  • 8 Salt Rain 4:42
  • 9 Kamakshi 4:53
  • 10 Nagumomo 4:48
  • 11 O Rama 4:54
  • 12 Song to the Siren 6:32

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata