Tian Qiyi – Dharma – Skylight Webzine

Tian Qiyi’s “Dharma” is a fascinating combination of traditional Chinese music with present psychedelic folk, creating a sound that feels ancient. It’s a piece that reaches geographical, physical, and melodic restrictions, creating an experience that’s simultaneously peaceful and cinematic. The song begins with beautiful traditional Chinese acoustic instruments, that take the listener to a peaceful, spiritual mood. However, complicated layers of psych-folk sounds evolve, recalling the experimental spirit of Led Zeppelin’s “Page & Plant” collaborations, Hawkwind’s cosmic style, and the Beatles’ hazy meditation during their psychedelic era. The combination of the ancient and new is what makes “Dharma” attractive. The song is supported by groovy, organic percussion, which provides an earthy, intriguing beat to the melodies. It feels like a mystical trip through sound, some kind of cosmic folk ritual. The composition also has a cinematic heaviness to it, providing a sense of an incredible soundtrack that may be used to accompany a mysterious trip or an ageless storytelling.