A Battle Of The Giants Volume 2: A Musical Feast from Trinidad & Tobago
If you’re into music that feels like a warm hug for your soul, A Battle Of The Giants Volume 2 by Leon Rampersad vs Bansraj Ramkissoon is worth a spin. Released under Windsor Records, this album dives deep into the rich sounds of Hindustani and Chutney styles, blending them with the vibrant spirit of Trinidad & Tobago. It’s folk, world, and country vibes all rolled into one spicy musical roti.
Let’s talk tracks—there are eight in total, but two stood out to me like a soca rhythm at a fete. First up, “Sairro Shiki Tamana Ab Hamare.” This one hits different. Right off the bat, the melody grabs you, pulling you into its storytelling vibe. You don’t even need to understand every word (and trust me, my Hindi ain’t great) because the vocals carry so much emotion. It’s like listening to someone pour their heart out over a cup of chai on a rainy day. There’s something comforting yet powerful about it—it sticks with you long after the song ends.
Then there’s “Jojo Garrtay Barday Chamke,” which has an energy that just makes you want to move. I’m talking foot-tapping, head-nodding kinda stuff. The mix of traditional instruments with that unmistakable Caribbean flair gives it a unique bounce. Every time I hear it, I imagine myself at a big family gathering where everyone’s laughing, eating doubles, and dancing without a care in the world. It’s impossible not to smile while listening to this track.
What I love most about this album is how it bridges cultures. It’s got that spiritual depth from Hindustani traditions but also the playful, lively essence of Chutney music. Leon Rampersad and Bansraj Ramkissoon clearly know what they’re doing—they’ve created something that feels both sacred and celebratory. Like, you could listen to it during prayer or blast it at a party, and it’d work either way.
One thing I didn’t expect? How much this album made me crave roti and curry. Seriously, by the third track, I was in the kitchen whipping up dinner. Music that inspires food cravings? That’s next-level artistry right there.
So yeah, if you’re looking for an album that’ll take you on a sonic journey through Trinidad & Tobago’s cultural tapestry, give A Battle Of The Giants Volume 2 a try. Just don’t blame me if you end up craving pholourie afterward!
