Talavya (formerly Tabla Ecstasy) started off the evening with their powerful drumming. Tabla players Rushi Vakil, Kaumil Shah, Sahil Patel and Rahul Shrimali impressed all with their synchronization and complexity of rhythmic patterns and tabla compositions. The audience had many Indian classical music listeners and they appreciated the contemporary style of presentation and commended Pandit Divyang for his unique work.
Following a brief break, Rhythm Riders took the stage again with a different mood and feel with world fusion groupTaan. Led by composer and keyboardist Rushi Vakil, the group started off with its newly updated track Om Namah Shivaya, which has become even more powerful with the addition of recitation of the Shiv Taandav. Other tracks performed included Megh (a mix of Rajasthan folk and R&B), which had the audience clapping and dancing as Sahil Shah and Kaumil Shah played folk rhythms on the dholak and tabla; and Goan Kurry (Goan folk and Irish music), which was the first time many audience members heard Irish fiddling.
At the end of the show, many could not believe how quickly time had passed. "We had intended to leave a bit early as we had early morning commitments, but could not move from our seat," was the comment from many listeners.
It was beautiful way to start the new year and we look forward to many more performances like this in 2010.
