MUMBAI: Percussionist Vivek Rajagopalan's new album 'Moving Images' was launched on Thursday night under the Blue Frog label in Mumbai. The album, which is a good mix of contemporary and classical sounds, has been inspired by electronica and draws its influence from Carnatic and Jazz music.

'Moving Images' sets a paradigm for both budding musicians and music listeners. However, what sets Rajagopalan apart is the fact that in spite of working with two distinct genres, Rajagopalan is successful in restoring the essence of both Carnatic and Jazz music. This is the kind of music which can be played and heard anywhere and any time and moreover, it suits all kind of moods.

Gig Review :

For the album launch, Vivek played a 90 minute set which comprised the songs from Moving Images. The highlights of the events were many, however, one that left the audience stunned and asking for more was the vocal jamming better known as 'bolish' in Carnatic music. Vivek jammed for a good seven minutes with his musician friends. The solo performances of the band members were equally enthralling. One should also mention vocalist Ruchika Tiku of the band who set the temperatures soaring both with her vocals and stage presence.

Vivek's band comprises some fantastic and brilliantly talented musicians - one of them drummer Mukul Dongre, who took the listeners through the highs and lows of intricately timed rhythms giving the audience an out of this world experience and literally bringing the drum kit to life. This talented musician reminded me of John 'Mitch' Mitchell. Yes, he was that good!

The keyboard player Nihar Savale is definitely influenced by Jazz. Nihar did his jazz stuff, often hitting the high notes in a typical New Orleans Jazz style. Undoubtedly, the guy has a great knowledge of both Jazz and Carnatic music. His musical ability was clearly seen in the band's encore performance. Sitar player Ravi Chary played with a lot of control and feel. Whereas flautist Milind Sheorey added soul to the entire set with his soothing playing.

In sum, Vivek - the percussionist has a class of his own, be it accompanying his band or playing solo; the man certainly leaves a lasting impression. His impeccable timing sense and onstage energy churns out music which is both soulful and captivating. 'Moving Images' is contagiously pulsating and extraordinarily engaging. To sum it up, Rajagopalan has successfully come up with an album which set a paradigm for exponents of world music.