Karsh Kale @ Joe's Pub, NYC

Keyword:

Tabla - The tabla is a popular Indian percussion instrument used in the classical, popular and religious music of the Indian subcontinent and in Hindustani classical music. The instrument consists of a pair of hand drums of contrasting sizes and timbres. The term tabla is derived from an Arabic word which means "drum". (taken from www.wikipedia.com)

 Karsh Kale @ Joe's Pub 

We had front row, what could be better than that?

Just before coming home for Xmas holidays, my friends and I had the chance to check out Karsh Kale at Joe's Pub in NYC's hip and exciting East Village. Joe's Pub (as described on their website) has become one of New York City's most celebrated and in demand showcase venues for live music and performance. It has hosted people such as Bono, Liz Phair, Sinead O'Connor, Elvis Costello, Emmylou Harris, Aimee Mann, Sandra Bernhard, Dolly Parton, Ute Lemper, Eartha Kitt, and Joss Stone to name a few.

I first learned of Kale through a remix of his that I once heard. I was drawn to the drums and electronica beats, as electronica has become my absolute favourite genre of music (Goldfrapp, Ladytron, Gotan Project, Massive Attack, Portishead, Thievery Corporation, to name a few).

Reading up on Karsh Kale (pronounced KURSH KA-LAY) I learned that he is a producer, composer, tabla player, dj, drummer, singer/songwriter, and remix artist. I am most drawn and impressed by his tabla playing and how he blends and fuses Indian music and electronica into the mix. His hands are amazing to watch, but it's not just his hands, his entire body is involved. He is very expressive and impressive and is a very passionate performer. (see attached pix and first link at the bottom to see him in action).

Joe's Pub was a fantastic venue; great lights and sound, warm and intimate candlelight atmosphere, plush velvet couches, and dinner and drink service throughout the performances. It is a small venue which makes it intimate and so exciting to be in.

To learn more about Kale, check out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bynr57FQezo&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heTTCTsUi4g

http://www.myspace.com/karshkale
http://www.karshkale.com/