Depending on what iteration of Red Baraat’s members is playing at a given time, the octet can take on any number of vibes. Through peppy ska moments, horn-assisted rock chants and ample variations of aggressive jazz, a double-headed dhol (Indian drum) played by frontman Sunny Jain seems to be the single ever-present element. It’s not a fixture of the band’s logo by coincidence, after all. The juxtaposition of traditional instruments and new technology is the latest contribution to the outfit’s musical composites. “With [the song] ‘Gaadi of Truth,’ … I’m putting the dhol through some effects pedals,” Jain explains in an online bio, “while our sousaphone player is processing his sound through various synth effects.” Local reggae group Satta Roots opens for the experimental players at Asheville Music Hall Saturday, Oct. 10, at 10 p.m. $10/$15. ashevillemusichall.com. Photo by James Bartolozzi
Smart bets: Red Baraat
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