Ishta were based in Auckland and performed around New Zealand from 2000-2004. Their sound evolved into an uplifting blend of Eastern and Western influences with the funky bass grooves of Monsieur Escargot, soulful sitar playing by Rob Croft, stirring sax and flute arrangements by Ben Campbell, virtuosic tabla playing by Basant Madhur and the soaring, sensual vocals of Josephine Costain. The two main songwriters, Josephine Costain and Rob Croft both have Maori ancestry and are firmly connected to this land and its people. Their uplifting songs bring a positive message of unity and celebration of life expressed not just in English but also in Maori, Spanish and Arabic. The other members of the band originally come from India, France and Israel and their respective contributions help make the Ishta sound truly international. Ishta’s multinational lineup and choice of instruments reflects the everchanging multicultural and increasingly cosmopolitan nature of NZ society. Ishta is a sophisticated, talented group of musicians whose unique style of ethnic groove delights audiences wherever they perform. The album was recorded by Monkey Records label founder Nigel Braddock in various locations and was mixed in his Karekare studio. User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.