MUMBAI: Well-known new-age percussionist/composer Bickram Ghosh has now teamed with world renowned percussionist Pete Lockett for their upcoming instrumental album. The unique album titled 'The Kingdom of Rhythms' is soon to be released under the Saregama label.

As the name suggests, 'The Kingdom of Rhythms' is one of the most elaborate rhythmic projects in recent times with two virtuosos of the rhythm world coming together.

Speaking on the distinctive nature of the album, percussionist Bickram Ghosh says, "In a span of one hour, the album takes the listeners on a rhythmic travel – from tribal drumming to electronic." The visual treat would be the video of one of their song titled 'Primal' which will soon be aired on VH1.

The musicians have been working on this nine track album for the past two years. The Kingdom of Rhythms also features bassist Kai Eckhardt of John Mclaughlin trio on one of the tracks and Bengali tribal band Dohar. Besides this, there's a list of around 250 intruments used on the album such as Hang drum, Surdu, Chinese hanging drum, Pandiero, Bodhran, Udu, Req, and some good old Kitchen utensils to name a few.

Since percussive instruments have some limitations, it is certainly more challenging to record if the album has two percussionists playing together – the musician has to work hard on the sound and arrangements to make sure it's aesthetic and soulful. Acknowledging the fact, Bickram explains, "To counter that we have experimented with a lot of rhythmic layering. For instance, when Pete would play on bongos, I would add tabla parts in between, but also making sure this doesn't spoil his groove." He adds, "You can call this as rhythmic harmony, which is parallel to melodic harmony." 

The duo feels that their new album will appeal to both connoisseurs and novices alike. "We are looking at all kinds of people who love rhythm – be it masses or a frenetic music lover. The idea is to make rhythm accessible for the uninitiated listener and yet to satisfy the discerning listener who yearns for that special touch – that spark of intellect and that flash of virtuosity," he says.

To check out the promo video CLICK HERE