They say: “Rhythmsticks” is an annual event on Londons Southbank. For about ten days each year, musicians from all over the world display their percussive skills in an international celebration of drumming. It was here, a few years ago, that James Asher first heard the amazing Sivamani. Surrounded by a multitude of novelty sounds such as birdcalls, springdrums, etc., this supreme musician electrified his audience with virtuoso skill, profound joy and playful humour. “We were transfixed. Time stood still. It was a moment of sheer magic,” James recalls.
So when a few years later, James met Sivamani by pure chance through his great percussionist friend Sandeep Raval - the guide and mentor for James’ first Indian album project, Tigers of the Raj - he was thrilled when the celebrated musician accepted an invitation to his London studio to listen to this joint album. James was even more thrilled when Sivamani’s response to the album was to say : “God intended us to meet!”.
Sivanami is one of India’s best-known and most colourful percussionists with a sparkle, presence and charisma that is unmatched in the entertainment world. James hopes that listeners will derive as much pleasure from listening to this album as he and Sivanami had making it. This was a collaboration whose fun and warmth transformed it into a great adventure.