The inaugural Chennai Drum Fest delivered a percussive celebration that transcended conventional rhythms and took the audience on a journey through sound and time signatures. This remarkable event brought together six renowned drummers, each showcasing their unique styles and techniques, with the event curated by accomplished pianist and drummer, Lydian Nadhaswaram. The festival was akin to witnessing a live adaptation of the themes explored in the 2014 film “Whiplash,” highlighting the relentless pursuit of perfection, the dedication required to hone one’s craft, and the ambitious drive that fuels musical success.
The evening commenced with a performance by Steven Samuel Devassy, who set the tone with a brief yet captivating mridangam solo. The rhythms soon transitioned to his acoustic drum set where he showcased his exceptional skills, particularly with the bass drum. Steven’s performance was a testament to his expertise, weaving intricate rhythms that captured the audience’s attention right from the start.
Following Steven was Siddharth Nagarajan, a young drumming prodigy with a Guinness World Record for delivering the most drum beats in a single minute—2,109 beats. His performance was marked by effortless grace and technical wizardry as he collaborated with Lydian on the keyboard in a 9/8-time signature piece. Siddharth’s mastery was further demonstrated in his innovative take on dual rhythm playing; he combined Western and Indian grooves using only one stick in each hand. The crowd responded with enthusiasm, particularly when Siddharth played a complex 11/8-time signature rhythm, accompanied by Lydian’s expert keyboard work.
Amid the variety of performances, the traditional sounds of the chenda added a distinct Indian flavor to the concert, enriching this diverse showcase of global percussion styles. Siddharth thrilled attendees with a Tamil classic, ‘Aasaiya kaathula thoodhu vittu,’ drawing explosive applause. A standout moment of his set was an impressive solo using only the kick drum, followed by his very own composition titled ‘Rudra,’ which intricately wove rhythms around the scales of Charukesi raga.
Lydian Nadhaswaram further entranced the audience with a solo drum performance that presented rhythmical patterns interwoven across varied time cycles.
. His expressions on the drums mirrored his talents as a multi-instrumentalist, engaging the audience with each beat.
As the drum festival continued, Gino Banks took to the stage with performances that amalgamated control and fluidity. His set list included both personal interpretations and collaborative pieces like ‘Spot,’ a track composed with Lydian and bass guitarist Aalap Raju from their album “Chromatic Grammatic.” Banks displayed his prowess by balancing traditional rhythms with innovative techniques, captivating the audience with each stroke.
The audience eagerly awaited the arrival of legendary American drummer Dave Weckl, whose career with the Chic Corea band has made him a household name in jazz fusion drumming. At 64, Weckl’s performance was a masterclass in the art of drumming. Accompanied by Lydian, Aalap Raju, and the talented flautist Amrithavarshini, he transported the festival-goers through time, revisiting his timeless contributions to the world of music.
Ilai, another exceptional performer of the evening, took the stage with unmatched vigor. His solo performance reflected a deep understanding of rhythm and technique, concluding with a powerful presence that rallied the drummers together for a dynamic six-minute jam session. The collective energy during this finale highlighted not only the unity but also the individual brilliance of each artist present.
Debuting in Chennai, the Drum Fest showcased an extraordinary blend of tradition and modernity, with rhythms that transcended musical boundaries. This inaugural event was more than just a concert; it was an immersive dive into the world of percussions and an experience which resounded long after the final beat. As the festival concluded, it left an indelible mark on the vibrant cultural tapestry of Chennai, establishing itself as an annual musical soiree to anticipate eagerly.
