Aruna Sairam & Soumik Datta: UTSAV - Back to the Blues (Track 2)

UTSAV is a brand new collaboration between Carnatic songstress Aruna Sairam and rising sarod artiste Soumik Datta. Together, they perform a suite of songs that connect north and south Indian classical music with Western Jazz. Both lead artists have considerable reputations in their own fields: Soumik Datta as a young sarod player and composer, accomplished in Hindustani classical music, but also experienced in fusion and film projects; and Aruna Sairam as a recognised doyen of South Indian song, always open to experimentation.

Accompanying voice and sarod are a trio of instruments: piano played by Al Macsween, mridangam by Pirashanna Thevarajah and Irish bodhran drums by Cormac Byrne. Composed by Soumik Datta, this collection of festive songs weave together Carnatic, Jazz harmony, Hindustani ragas and Sanskrit chant.

PRESS:

'A work of rare imagination’ Ken Hunt, Pulse Connects.

‘Totally convinced by the ensemble, their musicianship and what they had to say together’ Simon Broughton, Editor, Songlines.

‘Brilliant Blues take of ancient Carnatic melodies’ Music Aloud.

‘“Soumik Datta is a powerhouse of talent. Unlike many from his generation, this Mumbai born London-based sarod artiste is equally adept at both western and Indian classical music. His collaborations with some of the biggest names in the West have earned him a distinctive reputation but the few who have heard his Pilu or Jhinjhoti, snippets of which are floating on cyberspace will tell you that he ought to play more sarod solo concerts” The Hindu.

“M S Subbulakshmi is no more. But if there is any singer who comes close to matching such purity of voice, diction, impeccable sruti alignment and frill-free singing, it is Aruna Sairam” Outlook Magazine.

Project commissioned by: Bagri Foundation
In Association with: Soumik Datta Arts
Premiered at: St. John’s Smith Square, London (2018)

[praneethbhat]

I am telling you this composition is like a drug, once addicted there is no going back ❤️❤️

[shounakkulkarni]

This whole series is a gem. I am so overwhelmed while listening to this. Feel like I am hearing music from heaven.

[samniruben]

I thought i was the only one that’s obsessed with this music collaboration. now that i seen all the comments, i feel at home! ❤ i wish that you guus collobrate again so i get to experiance it live!! please!

[SambathKumaar]

5:28 onwards, the percussions do a fantastic job of bringing the strings and piano into a wonderful crescendo which is then followed by the vocals to bring this beautiful piece to its climax. Wah. Beautiful! <3

[sudks]

Who says indian subcontinent music quality is in downfall now a days except the commercial whole series is truly a collaboration proves that music is a universal language....

[Anthony]

Love it unreservedly.. Amazing performance!!

[_rashmiraj]

The way he conveys love with his instrument by looking over it is amazing

[bhaskarville]

This is therapy for my soul! So amazing! <3

[arjunharsha]

I get a feeling of accomplishment every time I listen to this music, like an after myth of winning something great, and feeling no pressure soo lite like letting go all the mass of the body just a free soul floating around.😌

[MisssLilly]

Truly transported! Bless you all for this brilliant collaboration <3

Wow..suddhadanyasi...at its best..seemlessly it blends with blues type of music

[vaishnavis]

This Soulful composition is all you need to get your day started!!

[johnm]

This fusion is unprecedented. Kudos! She is a la Mudgal. All accompanists are well accomplished. Hats Off!

[kayakannan]

So so blissful. Wish I was able to watch it live! thank you for posting.

[AnchitNatha]

this one is just amazing !! love and respect from jaipur, india

[klnaraaguddu]

Mesmerising concert....love this....nice channel

[rx]

Mother!!! What is this??!!! Thank you for this experience, sincerely...

[girishh]

What an amazing musicians! great legends !!

[nyxaquar]

This is extraordinary. Fusion in the true sense.

[Pushandom]

when ever and wherever i hear it really know for what we are made for