Reflection of musical dreams

ETHEREAL EXPERIENCE

Fusion Dreams’, an Indo-European fusion concert held recently, once again proved that legendary vocalist M Balamuralikrishna has countless fans.

Organised by Sparsh Foundation in aid of SparshVachana, the charity wing of Sparsh Hospitals, the event brought together veteran vocalist and composer Balamuralikrishna and talented violinist Jyotsna Srikanth on one platform for the first time

. When Balamuralikrishna’s soulful Carnatic classical rendition was blended with world fusion, it was an unparalleled experience for the audience.


Music-lovers thronged Ravindra Kalakshetra, where the event was organised and most of them had to stand and enjoy the performance as the auditorium was jam-packed. They were all excited to witness Balamuralikrishna performing in a fusion concert. 

The event started with a fast-paced composition called ‘Sprint’ in Sindhu Bhairavi. Jyotsna Srikanth’s team, which included artistes from across India and Europe like Shadrach Solomon on keyboards, Keith Peters on bass guitar, Tony Das on lead guitar, N Amruth on Indian percussion, Taalis on drums and Karthik Mani on world percussion, presented this fast but pleasant composition.

Post the event, Balamuralikrishna was greeted on the stage with a roaring applause. He commenced his performance with Palisemma Muddu Sharade by Purandaradasa in Shriranjani Raga. His performance was highly appreciated by the crowd. His next rendition was a Thyagaraja composition, Varaleela Ganalola in Shankarabharanam.

The music-lovers had a novel experience watching Balamuralikrishna presenting Carnatic classical music to western beats.  Despite the musical accompaniment he got, the legendary singer proved why he is adored by so many people. His mellifluous voice filled the auditorium and  and his flawless rendition held everyone captivated.

Jyotsna too stole everyone’s hearts as she presented Carnatic ragas in a western manner. She presented ‘Canters’, a composition inspired by the sound of a horse’s gallop. The concert was spiced up when Balamuralikrishna rendered his own composition Sogasu Nee Sommu Kalyani which described the beauty of Kalyani Raga. His elaborations and improvisations were highly enjoyed by the music-lovers present. Jyotsna’s Kalyani Mix, a fused version of Kalyani Raga, was also melodious.

Panthuvarali Raga was also presented in a captivating way. Jyotsna’s team presented some more catchy compositions like ‘Hip-hop Violin’ and ‘Alone With Mother Nature’.  The entire musical experience was surreal.

“It was a different experience for me altogether. I am an ardent fan of Balamuralikrishna. At this age also, his voice has got all the energy. I really enjoyed this event but somehow liked his traditional renditions more. I also appreciate Jyotsna’s effort in bringing musicians from across the world for this wonderful event,” said Manjunath Bhat, an IT professional.