Band of Likely Brothers

The young percussion ensemble must go beyond fusion formulas to make a musical mark

- By TANISHA SAXENA

It's a spellbinding evening at Kamani Auditorium. Tal Fry Percussion's six-part show seamlessly merges tradition with innovation, each act a masterclass in sound and movement. From the intricate cycles of Jati Mala to the primal elegance of Dilana, the ensemble explores the depths of Carnatic rhythm. A bold nine-beat interplay follows, leading to two soul-stirring Abhangs, where classical roots meet contemporary edge. The climax, Shatkanuta, has Bharatanatyam virtuoso Manaswani Ramachandran transform rhythm into visual poetry. For the group, performing at Parampara Festival 2024 is a moment of personal and professional significance. "This festival has been a touchstone for all of us," says tabla player of the ensemble, Saptak Sharma.