Banglarasta

Banglarasta - Lokkhi Terra and Shikor Bangladesh All Stars

by Benedict Croft

Banglarasta is the outcome of the world music collective Lokkhi Terra, led by Kishon Khan, combining with Bengali and Baul folk group the Shikor Bangladesh All Stars to produce some of the most interesting global fusion sounds of the decade. Put simply, this project combines heavy dub reggae with the classic folk instrumentation of West Bengal and Bangladesh. In ‘Shaddho Ki Re Amar’ the khol drum and taal cymbals set a traditional rhythmic cycle with characteristic dotara melodies accenting Bangla vocals, whilst deep bass lines, skanking guitars and tight horn riffs push the folk sounds into roots reggae. This short EP exhibits a blend barely explored anywhere else and makes you question why Bengali folk as a musical tradition is so untouched by the global fusion scene. ◆