Thoughts on this album:
It had been a long time since I made music for others. This style is vastly different having come from the rock and roll genre, specifically the NYC punk/ska scene of the 70s and 80s.
A life of substance abuse recovery, becoming a mother, changing coasts, losing husbands and parents, then gaining a teacher and a spiritual practice brought me to what I’d always done from childhood — connect to Creator by making music.
The space for artistry that producer Thomas Barquee was able to provide was not only invaluable as a musician but helped me expand towards what Yogi Bhajan called the Possible Human. Writing and recording mantra for Lila gave me a more intimate view into each shabad, and the vibration from which it came.
Bringing the songs from the ethers to the maya has been a challenge. The music has come easier than the marketing!
It is my hope that you find this album useful in its ability to uplift and restore you and yours.
“Jap Dharam Rose’s voice is a welcome addition to the Kundalini chant genre—strong and sattvic at the same time. Her debut CD LILA covers all emotions and ranges of experience while remaining very much true to the Naad. Her artistry is enjoyable without being distracting, like a warm hug. It’s perfect for class or personal practice. LILA is an essential album for any Kundalini yogi. “Akhan Jor” matches perfectly with Breath of Fire and helps me to keep up when I want to give up. Jap Dharam’s “Long Time Sun” is so uplifting and easy to chant, it is destined to be a classic. ”
“The album LILA is one of those rare gifts that transports you to a different space immediately. The vibration of the album holds the wisdom and grace not only of Kundalini Yoga, but of its creator Jap Dharam Rose. Her deep devotion, wisdom, tenderness, and compassion all weave a tapestry of love that cloaks you in a sanctuary of bliss. When her “Lunar Lullaby (Longtime Moon)” is used, all hearts in the class crack open. Every mantra on the album is a connection home to the truth of who we are and reminds of our own LILA (the play of God).”