Track of the Week

Konnakol duets

Our takadimi system for reading rhythm is derived from konnakol, an Indian tradition of vocalized percussion. Below are three konnakol duets.

The speed and complexity may lead you to think that this is all improvised. But note the unison sections where the two musicians are singing (or playing) the exact same lightning-speed rhythms as each other, making it clear that these are precisely learned rhythms and vocal syllables. In the first video, the unison sections begin at 0:40 (very brief), at 2:23 (nearly a minute of unison), and at 4:10 (until the end).

V Shivapriya & BR Somashekar Jois

Here is the same performance, with transcription and accompanied by drums:

Loire & Glen Velez

This couple grew up in Long Island and Mexico, respectively, but have paid their dues in the Indian classical tradition.

Umamahesh, Umashankar, & Selvaganesh

A lighthearted jam.