the cover : A Yakshagana(ಯಕ್ಷಗಾನ) performance typically begins in the twilight hours, with an initial beating of the drums of several fixed compositions, called abbara or peetike. This may last for up to an hour before the actors finally arrive on the stage. The actors wear resplendent costumes, head-dresses, and face paints.[7] Yakshagana performers in action. A performance usually depicts a story from the "Kavya" (epic poems) and the "Puranas" (ancient Hindu texts). It consists of a story teller (the bhagawatha) who narrates the story by singing (which includes prepared character dialogues) as the actors dance to the music, portraying elements of the story as it is being narrated. All components of Yakshagana-including the music, the dance, and the dialogue-are improvised. The artists pray to lord Ganesha before their performance. Yakshagana also ends with a prayer to Ganesha
To be honest a lot of records feature solo flute parts like this but yeah the spirit is also there. And I won't bet on it but there is a chance you're a Cinematic Orchestra fan ;) And let's not forget Devadid/Carlos !
No, it's not Buddha. This is actually a traditional mask from Karnataka, India, used in their vibrant Yakshagana dance-drama. These masks, often made of papier-mâché or wood, are part of a rich theatrical tradition that blends dance, music, and colorful storytelling. xx
