Ranjit Barot: Bada Boom Review

By: Vince Lewis

Drummer Ranjit Barot is the son of a legendary classical Indian dancer. He has spent the past several years appearing as a sideman, producing other artists and writing award winning film scores. His prowess as a composer is highly regarded in World and Fusion music circles.

Bada Boom is the first release featuring Barot as leader. He is joined by Zakir Hussain (Tabla), John McLaughlin (Guitar), Wayne Krantz (Guitar), U.Srinivas (Mandolin), Matthew Garrison (Bass), Dominique DiPiazza (Bass), Aydin Essen (Keyboards), Sridhar Parthasarathy (Mridangam) and Tim Garland (Saxophone).

The music is comprised of four original compositions and two modern arrangements of traditional Indian themes. Titles include “Singularity,” “Supernova,” “Dark Matter” and “Origin.” The arrangements are rhythmically complex and perfectly performed.

Barot describes his music as an effort to blend the rhythmic and harmonic traditions of classical Indian music with the improvisational aspects of jazz. He also adds the fervor of funk and rock and roll to the mix.

Abstract Logix is at the forefront of promotion of modern jazz and world music. Their stable of artists is impressive, and the quality of production is outstanding. If there is to be a true resurgence of fusion and ethnic genres then their efforts need to be recognized as playing a major role.

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