Custom CDs

erosadventure

In downtown Calcutta, on an east-west street (same one as Oxford books. go east and to opposite side of street, at major intersection, same street that runs north-south from Sudder. Sorry no map or notes at hand) is a big music store with very competent staff to help you select Cds and cassettes (much cheaper).

A male student of music (he says they all are) helped me select some Rabindra sangeet (i.e. Tagore). Virgin store style they have a few listening posts, but not many. If you ask nicely and seem serious they will open packages and play numerous selections.

I didn't do it but in January they had introduced a machine where one could lsiten to samples of ragas (not sure if it was only northern tradition, but it was certianly only classical - they didn't have 'I am a Bombay taxi driver man' my all time favorite). Having chosen a dozen or so you prepay and give an address in India for delivery. HQ is in Bangalore or somewhere a long way from Calcutta. Price was fair.

Only thing I didn't like was the chaperoning of the machine. Unlike Bangkok it wasn't some sweet girl providing information and encouragement to buy. It was more like she was a security guard. And unlike if the equivalent was in Borders Books in Singapore, the vibe I got was that she really didn't want me playing with the machine and trying out different raga. Apparently one is supposed to already know what wants, verify the tune, and then place an order.

Low marks for approachability
High marks for value.