GLOBAL RHYTHMS

Just got back from IIT.. Went there for the opening of Saarang 2007.. It began with a performance by a group called Global Rhythms.. They play a lot for Rahman nowadays..

I wasn't too keen on going in the beginning but the article in 'The Hindu' which said Rahman had made a promise to come if he was in town pushed me to go.. Got calls at 5PM saying IIT was jam packed and that there was no point going there.. Was vetti anyway, so a few friends of mine and me ended up there at 6:45..

To my surprise, the place was half empty and the band hadn't even come.. It was a long wait and the show finally started at 8:00PM.. By this time, the place had become full..

They started off with a classical number (which made a couple of my friends leave).. This was followed by a good fusion piece called 'ecstasy' and solo performances on the drums..

They played a mix of rahman songs next but sang only the raaga in each.. Very innovative.. The mandolin performance next was amazing.. The 'Thaniavarthanam' (not sure if i spelt it right) was a brilliant fusion piece on the drums, mirudangam and gadam..

What followed was the best part of the show.. They performed 'Shakalaka Baby'.. Amazing.. When the host said that their chief guest was coming, i was so excited it was going to be A.R.Rahman.. To my disappointment, it was his sister A.R.Rehana.. She performed 'Chaiya Chaiya' which began badly but was pretty satisfactory in the end..

They say the best is always saved for last but it unfortunately wasn't so.. The 'Dol Dol' performance didn't match upto Shkalaka Baby.. All in all, it was an evening well spent.. A little part of me thought Rahman would actually come.. Pity, guess i just have to wait till next time..