Carnatic Fusion Jams and Musical Collaborations
A look into the creative process and experiments where Carnatic traditions blend with contemporary rhythms.
An impromptu devotional jam session of 'Pibare Rama Rasam' with Vishwas Hari on mandolin. This is how many of our ideas start, with simple, soulful explorations of traditional bhajans.
Remembering the great mandolin maestro U. Srinivas with a short recording of 'Entha Muddo'. These informal sessions are a way for us to pay tribute to the legends who inspire our music.
Jamming with the talented musicians of Viprahar on a fiery chittaiswaram section. This clip shows the dynamic interplay between vocals, keyboard, dholak, and mandolin that defines our fusion sound.
Snippets from my collaboration with IndoSoul for their 'Soul Sabha' series. This project aims to bring the joy of the Margazhi kutcheri season to a wider audience in an intimate, modern format.
The official release graphic for 'Telisi Rama', my episode for the Soul Sabha series. I was happy to collaborate on this project to share the beauty of Carnatic compositions.
About The Fusion Sound: Jams & Collaborations
My approach to fusion is less about sticking to a strict template and more about finding where the raaga meets the riff. When we jam—whether it's an impromptu session with a mandolin player or a structured collaboration for projects like IndoSoul—we prioritize the emotional core of the piece. If you are looking to book this style, it helps to tell me what kind of energy you want. Are we looking for a soulful, acoustic atmosphere or a high-octane stage set? The specific blend of instruments and the setlist flow depend entirely on that initial vibe check.
For me, music is a conversation. This cluster showcases how I bring that dialogue to life through various collaborations and experimental setups. Whether it is the electric energy of working with my band, Viprahar, or the intimate, soulful storytelling I explore with partners like IndoSoul, the goal remains the same: sharing the joy of music.
The Fusion Process
When I design a set, I don't just mix genres. I look for the connection between the structure of a Carnatic kriti and the freedom of jazz or rock. You will often see me performing with a mix of traditional percussion like the mridangam or dholak alongside the electric violin, bass, and keys. It creates a soundscape that feels familiar to rasikas yet exciting for a new listener.
Why This Works
- Dynamic Range: My performances aren't static. We can switch from a slow, devotional alaap to a fast-paced chittaiswaram section that gets the crowd moving.
- Collaborative Spirit: I thrive on improvisation. My sessions are often spontaneous, and I love working with other musicians to see where the music takes us.
- Tailored Experiences: Because every event is different, I customize the ensemble. A smaller, acoustic chamber set works perfectly for dinners, while a full 6-piece band is built for festival stages.
If you have a specific song or a particular fusion genre in mind, let's talk. I am always open to exploring new musical territories, provided we keep the soul and the bhakti at the heart of the performance.
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