We have recently seen a renaissance of what would be called “retro” electronic musical trends in popular culture, partly thanks to the soundtracks of successful franchises such as Stranger Things and the Guardians of the Galaxy movies. This resurgence of 1980s and ’90s electronica reaches into the world music scene with the help of acclaimed tabla virtuoso Shawn Mativetsky and his new album, Temporal Waves. Mativetsky expertly blends the versatility of his instrument with multiple orchestrations of tape, synthesizer effects, and drum-machine grooves for the duration of this extraordinary project.

Throughout the 15 tracks, Mativetsky displays how the tabla can be an impressive solo instrument and a tasteful and supportive accompanying voice. Pieces such as “Data Cassette Sunrise” and “Sprawl Twilight” feature the vast improvisational possibilities of the tabla through an onslaught of superbly performed rhythmic figures. Alternately, works including “I Remember” and “Warmth of the Winter Sun” showcases how the instrument can support melodic lines by serving as the steady rhythmic drive and helping with the harmonic progression. The specific intonations that Mativetsky bends out of the large baya drum are truly impressive and a sign of a true master of the instrument.

Along with the musical abilities of the featured performer, the electronic soundscapes give a pleasant sense of nostalgia to those of us of a certain age. You will be reminded of happy days in front of your Atari or NES gaming system as you hear digital melodies like those from Mega Man levels, early Final Fantasy soundtracks, as well from futuristic movies of the late 20th century.This project is masterfully produced with a spot-on balance between the acoustic tabla performances and their digital settings. Whether you are a fan of the musical stylings from which the tabla originates or you lived your formative years in the early days of electronica, listening to this album will give you a lot of joy.