British Asian clarinettist Arun Ghosh is delighted to return to Bristol, presenting and premiering his new band Aaj Kal Trio, featuring Shivraj Singh on double bass, and the visionary UK tabla player and percussionist Dalbir Singh Rattan.

Over a career spanning three decades, the award winning IndoJazz sensation has wowed and charmed UK and international audiences with his charismatic and passionate performance style, lyrical musical expression, and a distinctly progressive compositional voice.

"An upfront mix of South Asian melodies and western street-grooves" (Guardian)

The sound and ethos of Aaj Kal Trio marks a musical return to Ghosh’s South Asian cultural roots. Exploring the raags and taals of his acclaimed albums Northern Namaste and A South Asian Suite, the tabla is once again brought to the fore. This instrument’s all encompassing groove becomes the foundation for Ghosh’s searching and searing clarinet improvisations; a unique style that draws inspiration from both Ustad Bismillah Khan and John Coltrane.

A classic trio format of wind, bass, and rhythm - in line with the great trio ensembles led by jazz luminaries, Charles Lloyd, Joe Henderson, Sonny Rollins - the group’s British Asian identity is also celebrated on stage, with a musical palette inspired by drum ’n’ bass, UK downtempo, and a Stone Roses era swagger.

Aaj Kal Trio is a new music project commissioned and produced by Asian Arts Agency for its New Sounds music festival 2026.

Description supplied by the event organiser.