Let’s get original

Percussionist, Trilok Gurtu who performs in the city tomorrow talks about why he dislikes aping western culture

To give you a taste of his music and his latest album Massical, we caught up with the man himself and found out what's in store for Bangaloreans.

Different strokes: Percussionist Trilok Gurtu has performed with artists from all around the world pic/Elio Guidi

The journey so far

Trilok Gurtu has been a musician for more than 35 yearsu00a0 now. Talking about his mother, vocalist Shoba Gurtu, he says, "I have been playing music since I was a kid. It was something that came to me naturally, but it wsa my mother who encouraged me at every step".

Ask him what drives him and he would tell you that it was the blessings from his guru, Ranjit Maharaj. A noble disciple, he avers, "He has inspired me tou00a0 learn music. He gave me a new life."

Trilok has shared the stage with many renowned artists like Sting, Don Cherry and John McLaughlin, Zakir Hussain and Hariprasad Chaurasia. "I have been working very hard and the journey has not been a smooth one.

Many people have criticised my work, but recognition has arrived at my door after sheer determination and persistence from my end," he adds.

"One should not question a musician about their best performances or concerts. I think it is unfair to judge a concert, sidelining others," says Trilok Gurtu, who prefers to forget a concert after his performance. "The moment I assert that this was my best concert, I would be letting my ego lead me and that would only hamper my growth," he adds.

Musically inclined

Trilok is known for his water performance, where he inserts different instruments into a bucket of water creating different tones. "Nothing is new in music. All classical and contemporary forms of music use various props to create a new sound. Musicians like John Tate have adapted it too. I have been inspired by such musicians, who helped me master this typical art of bringing a fresh sound from water," says Trilok.

Get real and stay true

"Bands that ape Western music probably don't know what Indian music is all about or are ashamed of it. People who display such atrocious attitudes will eventually learn to respect our music and culture," confesses Trilok.

"America spells fashion to them. I am ashamed that we go and eat at places like McDonald's, when we have other eateries that serve authentic Indian cuisines," he adds.

"I have picked those parts of Indian music that inspire me and have created my own unique style," he declares fervently. "The West looks up to our kind of music and we should be proud of that fact," he adds.

The next step

Trilok plans to launch Massical, his latest album in November this year. "Massical is for the masses who love music. I want the public to listen to the songs and deliver their verdict on it," says Trilok.
u00a0u00a0
"I am very enthusiastic about playing in Bangalore as the city boasts a fantastic audience." For all budding artists Trilok shares few words of wisdom u2014 "Don't aim to become famous. Have faith and love your music. Be honest to your music and your music will show you the path," he exclaims.

What: Trilok Gurtu Live
When: September 9, 7 pm
Where: Kyra, 100 feet road, Indiranagar.
For: Rs 750 and Rs 1,500 inclusive of dinner, and Rs 3,000 including drinks

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels