For over a decade, Sonny Singh has brought his fiery trumpet and lead vocals to audiences around the world with his acclaimed group, Red Baraat. Now, he has released his solo record, Chardi Kala, named after the Sikh concept of revolutionary, eternal optimism. Offering a response to the violence and tumultuousness of these times, Chardi Kala, released and recorded independently, pushes the boundaries of Sikh Kirtan and South Asian spiritual music. It also represents Singh's return to his early Punjabi and Sikh roots, as seen now through the lens of his experiences as a touring musician, educator and activist.