Four Nada yoga programs, known as TLM 1, TLM 2, TLM 3 and TLM 4, released by Gulan (aka Andrei Gulaikin), have attracted the interest of practitioners and fans of ambient music. The first three were released in 2015, the fourth in 2024.
The programs are created for a conscious, organic and smooth movement from audible external sounds towards the space of subtle internal sounds. In other words, a session with this music begins with attention to the sounds one hears and gradually turns towards those that arise within. The music can help create the conditions in which such a shift becomes possible, but whether it happens, and how it is experienced, depends on the listener. It cannot be promised to everyone.
In recent years, as the TLM programs have become better known, considerable feedback has been received from practitioners as well as fans of deep ambient. These responses contain interesting descriptions of deep contemplative, psychotherapeutic (including the use of TLM as an aid to sleep) and even psychedelic experiences. The main aim of the programs is a state of awareness beyond ordinary thought, but certain side effects, such as contemplative or psychedelic mental states, or falling asleep during the practice, may also occur among some listeners.
“Here there are no rhythms, no sharp sound peaks, here is serenity.”
Besides a full atmospheric electronic sound, TLM often features resonating tones, reminiscent of the hum of singing bowls of different frequencies and timbres, along with the softly altered sound of Indian string instruments. In these compositions one can also hear very subtle echoes of church organ, violins, wind instruments and more.
Each TLM program lasts about one hour and consists of three phases. The first phase, about 20 minutes long, is a dynamic, multi-layered soundscape that strengthens concentration on the external sounds. The listener hears rich harmonies, intersecting sounds, effects and chords, with a slight emotional colouring in the harmonies that supports the natural sense of immersion. The main phase follows (about 20 minutes), and it is hard to put into words. The range of experiences it brings, if any, is best understood by taking part in a session yourself, alone or as part of a small group. The third phase (15–20 minutes) brings the session to a close.
All four programs share this structure but differ in intensity and form of presentation. TLM 2 is the most intense and dynamic of them all, and TLM 1 lies in between. TLM 3 has a less pronounced dynamic beginning and a calmer continuation, and TLM 4 (The Depth of Stillness) is likewise among the calmest.
To a newcomer, the more intense compositions may at first sound like cacophony. As one becomes gradually involved in the practice, more and more subtle sounds may begin to emerge. Depending on the state of mind, the nervous system and other external factors, the listener may find that one program suits them better than another at a given time.
In 2020 and 2021, taking into account the recommendations of practitioners, TLM 1–3 were remastered and adapted to different listening conditions: headphones, room size and loudspeakers. TLM 4 was withdrawn from digital platforms after its 2024 release to correct audio imperfections and refine the editing, and its remastered edition keeps the original structure. For group sessions, the recommended room size is up to 60 square meters, with a maximum of 8–10 participants.
Gulan Music Studio
Nada Yoga – Remastered
