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Fernwood — Sangita
(Bandcamp no#, 2009, CD / DL)

by Henry Schneider, Published 2026-07-28

Sangita Cover art

Following the promise of Almeria, the second collaboration between Djam Karet guitarist Gayle Ellett and multi-instrumentalist Todd Montgomery further developed Fernwood's unique acoustic vision. While its predecessor often evoked Mediterranean and European landscapes, Sangita feels more deeply rooted in American soil, drawing upon folk, country blues, Appalachian traditions, and acoustic fingerstyle guitar while incorporating instruments and influences from far beyond those boundaries. The remarkable achievement of Fernwood lies in the duo's ability to assemble an arsenal of instruments from diverse musical cultures and employ them in service of a coherent musical identity. Rather than emphasizing exoticism, Ellett and Montgomery integrate these sounds so naturally that the music feels organic and familiar. New additions such as tenor banjo and the North Indian dilruba expand the album's tonal palette, while acoustic guitars, mandolin, sitar, and other stringed instruments weave together rich instrumental textures throughout. The album title references Sharngadeva's Sangita-Ratnakara, one of the foundational texts of Indian musicology, an appropriate choice given the prominent role Montgomery's sitar plays across the recording. Yet despite these Eastern influences, this is not a world music album in the conventional sense. Instead, Fernwood creates a musical crossroads where American acoustic traditions coexist comfortably alongside Indian and other global influences. At times the music recalls the exploratory spirit of John Fahey or Leo Kottke, particularly in the way intricate string arrangements balance technical sophistication with an inviting sense of warmth and accessibility. What distinguishes Sangita from many acoustic instrumental recordings is its sense of optimism. These compositions radiate a quiet confidence and gentle exuberance, avoiding both new-age sentimentality and virtuosic self-indulgence. The performances are focused on melody, atmosphere, and emotional resonance rather than technical display. The closing track, "August," serves as a fitting conclusion, built largely around an extended dialog between sitar and guitar that unfolds with the patience and contemplative character of a raga. It encapsulates much of what makes Fernwood so appealing: the ability to transport listeners without relying on volume, electronics, or elaborate production. Like its companion Almeria, Sangita is a beautifully crafted recording that rewards attentive listening while remaining entirely approachable. More than a collection of acoustic instrumentals, it represents two accomplished musicians creating a musical language of their own — one that draws from numerous traditions while belonging wholly to neither. Nearly two decades later, it remains one of the more distinctive entries in the Fernwood catalog.

Filed under: New releases, 2009 releases

Related artist(s): Fernwood, Gayle Ellett

More info
http://fernwood.bandcamp.com/album/sangita

 

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