Lakkshya brings together traditional Carnatic music and contemporary styles in exciting new ways. Born out of a shared passion for music , this ensemble is the brainchild of long-standing friends KJ Diliip (violin, composition), Ila Sangeetha Diliip (violin, voice), Sunaad Anoor (khanjira and hybrid percussion), and Aman Mahajan (piano, keyboard). Their music is a symphony of fun, experimentation, and artistic fusion, making them a compelling act to follow.
The Debut EP “Ecstasy”
This six-track collection is a celebration of feeling—powerful, raw, and exhilarating. Featuring distinguished artists like Mohini Dey on “The Way Home” and “Bhavani,” and BC Manjunath on the title track “Ecstasy,” Producer Pramath Kiran, recording engineers Shri Krishna Bhat and Pramath Kiran, mixing engineer MT Aditya Srinivasan, and mastering engineer Garry Purohit have created a polished and immersive sound.
Opening Lakkshya’s “Ecstasy” EP, “The Way Home” is a masterclass in musical fusion that never feels forced. Built on the Carnatic scale Bahudari, this 10-minute journey moves between calm passages and energetic sequences. K J Diliip’s composition cleverly masks a complex 7-beat cycle beneath what feels like a natural 8-beat flow. The interplay between Diliip and bass virtuoso Mohini Dey is particularly amazing. Their trading of phrases feels like a deep conversation, with Dey’s distinctive bass work adding depth to the traditional framework. While rooted in Carnatic tradition, the track never feels bound by it, instead creating something entirely fresh – a musical homecoming that manages to be both sophisticated and immediately engaging. The music left me speechless – in all my years of listening to fusion music, I can say I’d never encountered anything quite like this.
“Ecstasy,” the title track, draws inspiration from Shakti’s “Joy” while carving its own unique path. This 7-minute track is an intense ride that lives up to its name. B.C. Manjunath and Sunaad Anoor’s Konnakkol exchanges add layers of rhythmic complexity. Like a well-crafted story, the piece moves from a peaceful vocal solo through a soul-stirring piano interlude to a mind-bending climax. Each instrument gets its moment to shine and together they create a tapestry of sound that transcends traditional boundaries. I must say there’s so much mathematical precision to the composition. The tablas provide a steady heartbeat while the piano solo touches something deep within. When the violin starts playing towards the end, it’s pure musical ecstasy, leaving you stunned and ready for more.
The third track “Enigma” opens with a moody, blues-touched melody that instantly draws you in. The commanding piano entrance sets the stage for a masterful blend of jazz, Latin, and Carnatic sounds. As the violin plays, the music flows between melancholy and hope, carried by gentle percussion. The inclusion of the Sanskrit chant “Asatoma Sadgamaya” adds a spiritual layer, while the vocalist’s soaring notes in the second half lift the entire piece to new heights. Diliip’s vision, enhanced by Pramath Kiran’s Latin rhythms, creates something truly special – a composition that feels both fresh and timeless. It’s music that makes you pause, reflect, and ultimately surrender to its beautiful unpredictability.
“Bhavani” is where you’ll hear Mohini Dey’s bass wizardry. Built on a rare raga scale by the same name, this track alludes to Lord Krishna. The composition was originally penned by K J Krishna Bhat and brought to life by Ila Diliip. Dey’s bass lines compliment the melancholic sound of violin, while the Khanjira and Mridangam lay down a rhythmic foundation for the track.
You just need to close your eyes and feel the music as every instrument feels essential yet never overwhelming. The way the track builds toward its climax, with bells, tablas, violins, and that incredible bass work all coming together – truly amazing! For me, this track was the highlight of the EP, almost like a meditative journey that shows just how powerful fusion music can be.
The fifth track “Victory’s Echo” opens with a somewhat haunting tone. Set in the Carnatic raga Dhenuka, this powerful piece explores the theme of triumph and celebration. The arrangement features two violins, drums, khanjira, and piano. When the violin enters, it feels like it’s announcing royalty – you can almost picture a king’s arrival. The violin solos are jaw-dropping, especially considering their technical difficulty. I love how the two violins sound together, bringing out the raga’s rich essence while the drums and khanjira keep the energy pulsing forward. The whole piece feels like those precious moments after a great victory – when the dust has settled but the triumph still hangs in the air. It would make a perfect soundtrack for a period drama’s climactic scene.
“Envy” closes the EP with a fascinating exploration of desire and longing. The track opens gently, with jazz-influenced interplay between piano, violin, and Achal Murthy’s double bass. What struck me most was how the piece builds just like envy – starting subtle then growing more complex and intense. The vocals are particularly expressive, carrying raw emotions. I loved how it ebbs and flows, especially during that stripped-back middle section before the vocals lift off again. The solos are perfectly placed – from the rhythmic khanjira to Murthy’s bass work to that powerful vocal climax. It’s a journey through jealousy’s many shades, but done with such musical sophistication that you can’t help but be moved.
