Transcendent Talas is an intercultural ensemble that brings South Indian (Carnatic) musical traditions into dialogue with contemporary improvisation and global jazz practices. Led by percussionist and composer Curtis Andrews (mridangam), the ensemble features Shruti Ramani (voice), Raman Kalyan (flute), and Jared Burrows (guitar), musicians whose work is grounded in deep study while remaining open to experimentation and cross-cultural exchange.
The ensemble performs original compositions alongside creative arrangements inspired by Carnatic music, highlighting the tradition's rhythmic sophistication (tāla) and melodic richness (rāga). The music moves fluidly between composed and improvised sections, creating dynamic, highly interactive performances that are accessible to diverse audiences.
From soaring melodic passages to explosive rhythmic interplay, Transcendent Talas creates an immersive live experience that is at once deeply rooted, adventurous, and electrifying in the moment.