Trilok Gurtu

Trilok Gurtu is an acclaimed Indian percussionist and composer known for his innovative work blending the music of India with jazz, fusion, and world music. Born into a musical family in Mumbai, he began playing at a young age, with his mother, the renowned classical vocalist Shobha Gurtu, serving as a constant influence. He initially trained in tabla but later developed an interest in the Western drum kit, eventually creating a unique percussion setup that incorporates a mix of traditional Indian instruments like the tabla, djembe, and ghatam, along with a drum kit, unconventional items like a bucket of water, and his own vocal percussive sounds (konnakol). Throughout his career, Gurtu has become a pioneer in the world music scene, collaborating with a wide range of international artists. He was a key member of John McLaughlin's trio for four years and has also worked with jazz greats such as Joe Zawinul, Jan Garbarek, and Don Cherry. His extensive list of collaborators also includes musicians like Pat Metheny, Pharoah Sanders, and Robert Miles. Gurtu is a five-time winner of the Downbeat Critics Poll for Best Percussionist and has received a number of other prestigious awards for his work.