Maati Baani blends folk and funk across borders

Nirali Kartik, a Hindustani classical vocalist, and Karthik Shah, a composer and music producer, formed Maati Baani as a musical experiment with YouTube and digital platforms. Their collaboration began over 14 years ago, when streaming services were still emerging.

The duo describes their sound as a mix of folk and desi funk, which combines Indian musical elements like tabla, flute, and classical vocals with Western funk. They aim to present these genres thoughtfully, ensuring both authenticity and innovation.

Tandanano, a Kannada folk song, stands out for its blend of traditional themes with unexpected arrangements. The song, over 100 years old, explores women's liberation and freedom, and was reimagined with Mexican mariachi elements, creating a unique cultural fusion.

Maati Baani preserves folk melodies by immersing themselves in the culture behind each song. They often collaborate with local musicians, learning about traditions, food, and folklore. For instance, their song Umar Marvi was inspired by a Sindhi folk tale, featuring details like regional fruits and barking dogs to enhance authenticity.

Karthik Shah believes AI will become more prevalent in music, but he argues that people will still seek the human touch. He advocates for responsible use of AI, suggesting it should assist rather than replace human creativity.

At their upcoming Bengaluru concert, Maati Baani will perform popular tracks like Tandanano and Baawariya, along with new songs. Folk musician Noor Mohammad Sodha, a Jodiya Pawa player from Kutch, will join them, adding rare instruments to the performance.