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‘It’s important to keep the folk feel alive throughout a song’: Kutle Khan

Kutle Khan talks about fusing traditional and contemporary music

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Contemporary folk musician Kutle Khan is all set to take stage at the Sounds from the Desert concert. Other than the raw tunes from the dunes, the popular name in Rajasthani soundscape has also associated himself with tech-driven electro projects such as MIDIval Punditz (Twilight) and Karsh Kale. The king of kartaal (traditional instrument), who also has The Kutle Khan Project, talks to us about the show, what’s the key to a good fusion song and pure form of folk music. 

What appealed to you about Sounds from the Desert concert?

The concept of showcasing master folk musicians and instrumentalists of Manganiyars (hereditary community from Barmer and Jaisalmer districts of Rajasthan) got me deeply interested. This was a chance to bring the true sounds from the desert live to the rest of India. I also don’t get a chance to work with so many Rajasthani nstruments in my regular shows. 

What songs can we look forward to at the show?

While you will get to hear the sounds of the beautiful instruments from my state, we will also showcase the Ghoomar, our traditional dance. The set list will be a mix of traditional and popular songs. There will be a special edition of Kesariya Baalam. Songs like Dama Dam and Kinna Sona will be performed with Rajasthani folk sensibility.

What in your opinion is the key to a good folk fusion track?

The important thing is to keep the ethnic feel alive throughout the song. It’s equally essential to keep the balance of western and traditional instruments and still bring in the folk flavour.

Who are your favourite folk or fusion artistes? 

It’s a long list, to be honest. Maestros such as Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Gurdas Maan come on top. MIDIval Punditz, Harri Stojka (Venetian jazz guitarist) and artistes from Coke Studio Pakistan are extremely good, too. I’ve worked with Karsh, MIDIval and Amit Trivedi (Khari Khari) and learned about so many music disciplines.  

Do you wish folk people heard more folk music in its pure form?

I always admire the pure form of any ethnic music. For me, it’s very rich, whereas fusion gets the engagement of different audiences. 

What else are you working on?

My new album and music video are coming out by February. The record also has original compositions and lyrics. There are more shows where I will be collaborating with legendary musicians to create a new genre of music. And I’m still learning and sharing music.

When: January 25, 7 pm 
Where: Royal Opera House, Girgaum

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