Universal Prayer

Once called 'the southeast Kirtan force,' by their beloved friend Shyamdas, Bhakti Messenger has been bringing the practice of call-and-response chanting to large and small groups around the Southeastern U.S. since 2009. The spiritual practice of kirtan, which originated in India, is a form of meditation practiced to facilitate the opening of the heart, encouraging compassion towards ourselves and others. Bhakti Messenger blends a unique set of sounds which abound from their diverse musicians, all of whom come from a variety backgrounds and spiritual practices. Over the years, the band has facilitated numerous kirtans which, according to participants, have encouraged feelings of peace, love, joy, and bliss. The intention of this new CD, Universal Prayer, is to bring the experience of live kirtan with Bhakti Messenger into your life, whether you live near or far. It is the hope of the band members that this music be an uplifting and heart-opening experience for you. Phil McWilliams, a master of the strings, brings natural acoustic guitar sounds, banjo, dobro, and celtic harp to this CD, in addition to his resonant lead vocals. Ian Boccio's baritone voice blends with his harmonium and bass, contributing as the other lead vocalist. Amanda Feinstein's angelic voice peaks through in numerous harmonies and is featured on Bhaja Govinda, which she co-leads with McWilliams. Bhakti Messenger's original and lead drummer, Brihaspati, lays down a solid beat with a self-made drum rig including djembe, dumbek, darbuka, cymbals, and more. Matthew Hufschmidt, their other lead drummer, joined the band in 2011 and ever since has shared his gifts on the cajon, hi hat, shakers, and other percussion. All songs on Universal Prayer are joined by a chorus of local, Atlanta chanters, whose voices help to give the CD it's fullness and depth. Bhakti Messenger headlined the ChantLanta Sacred Music Festival for a number of years and members of the band have played with David Newman & Mira, Bhagavan Das, Girish, Wah!, Kirtan Rabbi, Wynne Paris, and their beloved departed friend Shyamdas. In 2012, they played at the largest national kirtan event, Bhakti Fest in Joshua Tree, California.