They are..
Montry Manuel on paint buckets or percussion, Mehdi on didgeridoo, Sridhar on the trumpet and visual artist and 3D mapping expert, Nishant.
It all started..
Three years ago in an experiment to create unique sound Montry got paint buckets from his neighbours and used them as drums, each drum had a different sound and so began his solo project. He shared this idea with Mehdi, who makes flutes and didgeridoos from discarded pvc pipes and other scrap. Mehdi got on board and then they found Sridhar, fondly called the Mad Elephant, who made a perfect fit with his experimental sound.
Influences..
Montry attributes his constant search for new sound and his life as his biggest influence. But the essence of their sound is shaped by a pot pourri starting from the streets, Osibisa, Boney M, Dave Grohl, electronica, Pink Floyd, and Native American music.
The band name..
Thaalavattam is a Malayalam word which means circle of rhythm, it resonated with everything they stood for. A large part of their show is spent in interaction with the crowd, who are invited to play on the recycled drums and become a part of the circle of rhythm. It also keeps in mind the social conscientiousness of the band that stresses on recycling and reusing and contributing to the circle of life.
Their music is for..
It is for everybody. Their music has proven to be capable of unifying crowds of people, children, parents, old people, young people, gay people, coloured people… Anyone who knows how to enjoy the beats
First gig..
La Casa on Sarjapur Road for New Year’s last year. In Montry’s words – it was mad. We had invited about 15 to 20 people, and 150 people showed up. Mehdi performed with him and there were dancers and painters and all in all a great experience.
See them next..
On November 22, at Toit, Indiranagar 100 Feet Road.
Visit http://www.facebook.com/thaalavattam for more details.
CATHERINE RHEA ROY
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