AMARKALAM by The Amarkalam Project

This debut offering by The Amarkalam Project explores points of convergence and dissonance between cultures and genres, ultimately in pursuit of cohesion and co-articulation across boundaries of different kinds. The Carnatic melodies that comprise this album cannot be described as fusion; they are approached with full respect for the South Asian classical tradition, but in dialogue with jazz harmonies and a genre-agnostic improvising sensibility that has opened each member of the ensemble to new possibilities within our respective traditions. This album was recorded over the course of a week-long residency in Rhode Island during the eighth month of Varshini's pregnancy.

amarkalam (அமர்க்களம்) adj.; exciting; impressive; energetic. n.; chaos; a battlefield.

The Amarkalam Project is an Indo-jazz collaboration directed by Varshini Narayanan and comprised of Narayanan (flute/vocals), John Bitoy III (piano), and Aparaajit Sriram (percussion), featuring original arrangements of traditional Carnatic melodies and compositions.