At a time when movies Nepal and the Nepali people are taking the theater-going public by storm, the Nepali trio Sur Sudha has finally made their break world-wide with the release of "Imaes of Nepal". If there is any better timing for a traditional group playing typically non-Western music, I can't think of what it might be. The group has been together for nearly ten years and has enjoyed a stately run of concerts for regional dignitaries, including the Dali Lama himself. They've also ventured out of their kingdom, even stopping in the states for a recording session or two.

As I mentioned before, Sur Sudha is comprised of three musicians who play three basic instruments: flute, sitar and table (percussion). You would think that this simple make-up would produce simple and unimaginative music, but this is far from the truth. The compositions, some traditional pieces from the Nepali region, some original works of the performers, are complex and full of life. The music on this CD is at once beautiful and emotionally charged. Of special note is the flute, played masterfully by Prem Rana. I have always been partial to classical instruments and the flute is one of my favorites. Rana plays with such fervor, the listener can literally feel the raw emotion.

I am generally not keen on the sound of the Sitar. The twangy sound and predisposition toward half-notes and complicated rhythms and melodies just isn't my cup of tea. But Sur Sudha manages to blend this instrument into their music without reaching or even approaching the overpowering presence that is often found in music featuring the sitar. Without compromising the traditional sound of their country's music, Sur Sudha manages to soften the oft-sharp twang, making their compositions more palatable to my distinctly Western ear.

As I often warn, "Images of Nepal" is not for everyone. While I find the music, especially the pieces which strongly feature floutist Prem Rana, refreshingly honest and emotionally charged, this one is still going to shock the ears of many listeners who are not accustomed to traditional Asian , Indian and Middle-Eastern music. If you are interest in Nepali music, or if you're looking for something different and you're not afraid to cross cultural bounds, this one may be for you. Otherwise, buyer beware.