Tablananda

There is a fine tradition of brothers in bands, occasionally accompanied by a sub-plot of sibling rivalry. Fortunately there is no Gallagher brothers-style drama on this album from tabla player Subhasis Bhattacharya, best known as side-man to his brother Debashish, the innovative Indian slide guitarist (and Songlines award-winner).

On the evidence of this riotously enjoyable record, there is more than enough talent to go around in the Bhattacharya family. Happily we are not denied Debashish, whose Hindustani slide guitar features liberally, including weaving the moody melody of opener ‘Valley of Brothers’.

Talented collaborators abound as the listener is treated to a feast of global fusion. The bansuri (flute) of Soumyojyoti Gosh provides one of the album's standout moments when bubbling up through the gently flowing groove of ‘Krishnu Naam’, a tune based on a folk melody traditionally sung by Bhatiyali boatmen.

If anything, Subhasis has been too generous to us. Across 13 tracks we get everything from Afrobeat worthy of Fela, to North African blues that evokes Ali Farka Touré, to traditional Hindustani classical. Take the time to enjoy the extended adventure that is Tablananda.