The inaugural Chennai Drum Fest was a spectacular showcase of talent and passion for rhythm, offering a thrilling journey for music enthusiasts. With the ambiance echoing the dramatic tensions of the 2014 film “Whiplash,” the festival reminded audiences of the relentless pursuit of perfection seen in the film’s jazz performances. Held in the vibrant city of Chennai, this electrifying event was curated by the prodigious pianist and musician, Lydian Nadhaswaram.
In an impressive line-up, the Chennai Drum Fest featured some of the most celebrated drummers, including Dave Weckl, Gino Banks, Ilai, Siddharth Nagarajan, and Steven Samuel Devassy. Each of these musicians brought their unique flair to the stage, creating an unforgettable experience for the attendees. The concert kicked off with Steven Samuel Devassy, who introduced the audience to the traditional rhythm of the mridangam before transitioning to the acoustic drums. His dynamic style set a powerful tone for the evening, as he expertly manipulated the bass drum with finesse.
Siddharth Nagarajan, a young prodigy who holds a Guinness World Record for the most drum beats in a minute (a staggering 2,109 beats), followed with an exceptional performance. His technical prowess was evident as he executed a breathtaking impromptu piece alongside Lydian Nadhaswaram on the keyboard, in an intricate 9/8 time signature. The synergy between Siddharth’s Western groove, played with the left hand, and the Indian rhythm, played with the right, captivated the audience.
Lydian Nadhaswaram, known for his multifaceted talent, showcased his drumming skills in a solo act that involved a series of rhythm patterns in diverse time cycles. His ability to blend complexity and musicality was commendable, leaving the audience spellbound. Complementing Siddharth’s array of performances, Lydian also joined him on the keyboard for another complex piece in a challenging 11/8 time signature.
Taking the spotlight next was Gino Banks, whose performance was marked by extraordinary control and fluidity.
. Known for his versatility, Gino played alongside karaoke tracks, delivering the audience a taste of his expansive repertoire. His collaboration with Lydian on “Spot,” a composition from the album “Chromatic Grammatic,” demonstrated his seamless integration into varying musical styles, further highlighting his expertise.
The festival proceedings took an exciting turn with veteran drummer Dave Weckl taking center stage. At 64 years old, Weckl enthralled audiences with his mastery over drums, from snare to hi-hat to toms. Playing classics from the Chick Corea band days, his performance symbolized timelessness and showcased his enduring talent. He was accompanied by Lydian Nadhaswaram and bassist Aalap Raju, with a special appearance by flautist Amrithavarshini, adding layers of depth to the soundscape.
Ilai’s solo performance was another testament to the dynamic talent present at the fest. Providing a melodic and rhythmic contrast, Ilai’s drumming seamlessly blended traditional Indian and modern Western elements. The climax of the event saw all the drummers come together for an exhilarating six-minute jam session, a spectacular finale that left the audience in high spirits, celebrating the essence of rhythm and collaboration.
The Chennai Drum Fest, in its first outing, marked a significant milestone in the city’s musical calendar. It gave a robust platform to both seasoned and upcoming percussion artists to demonstrate their artistry and passion. By channeling the adventurous spirit of rhythm, the fest not only entertained but also cultivated a deeper appreciation for the art of drumming, leaving an indelible impression on attendees.
This debut event sets a hopeful precedent for future editions, promising to continue its exploration of music through rhythm and drumming, and building bridges between musicians and audiences. With such a memorable start, the Chennai Drum Fest emerges as a pivotal celebration of percussion music, poised to be a permanent fixture in India’s cultural landscape.
