Tarun Balani
Tarun Balani
Jazz drummer and composer Tarun Balani is set to release his forthcoming album, Kadahin Milandaasin, on May 16 through BERTHOLD Records. This deeply personal project delves into Balani’s Sindhi heritage, drawing inspiration from the rich narratives of his ancestral homeland in Sindh and the migration journey of his paternal grandfather from Naushahro Feroze, Sindh, to Lajpat Nagar, New Delhi.
The album’s title, Kadahin Milandaasin, translates to „When Will We Meet?“ in Sindhi, encapsulating themes of longing, identity, and cultural preservation. Balani’s compositions seamlessly blend Sindhi folk traditions with contemporary jazz elements, reflecting his diverse musical influences and personal experiences. Collaborating with his band Dharma, the album features Finnish guitarist Olli Hirvonen, pianist Sharik Hasan from India, and trumpeter Adam O’Farrill, each contributing to the album’s unique soundscape.
The lead single, „Lajpat Nagar Sometimes,“ pays tribute to the Delhi neighborhood that became a refuge for Sindhi migrants in the early 1950s. The track captures the essence of displacement and resilience, with O’Farrill’s trumpet evoking the poignant emotions associated with the Partition. Balani reflects on the area’s evolving cultural tapestry, noting, „I feel like my music reflects Lajpat Nagar: a mix of cultures, identities, and worlds that may not seem to belong together at first glance.“
Balani’s previous works, including his debut album Sacred World and the critically acclaimed Dharma, have established him as a pioneering force in contemporary jazz. With Kadahin Milandaasin, he continues to explore his roots, offering listeners an intimate journey through his musical and cultural lineage.
Kadahin Milandaasin will be available on all major streaming platforms starting May 16. Listeners can pre-save the album now to experience Balani’s heartfelt homage to his heritage.
