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MUMBAI STAMP
Recently, in 2005, Taufiq conceived his own unique band ‘MUMBAI STAMP’ It is an innovative band formed by Taufiq, where trash material is put to use creatively to explore new rhythmic horizons. ‘Mumbai Stamp’, led by Taufiq; consists of 5 to 6 young drummers who play on all sorts of waste materials like bins, cans, tin boxes, buckets etc. Vibrant patterns of rhythm originating from these non conventional instruments take the audience to another level of energy. The power emanating from these spirited trash boxes, the superb co-ordination of the band and the phenomenal ability of Taufiq to stroke a rhythmic cadence out of any surface make MUMBAI STAMP a unique band. ‘Mumbai Stamp’ has entertained many an audiences, all over India. The amazing rhythmic motifs Taufiq weaves along with his band members leaves the listener wanting for more, the band enjoys the appreciation of all types of audience-be it music lovers, corporate world or the novice. This band catches the pulse of the audience and in fact is a spectacle to watch as well.
RHYdHun
Taufiq’s album ‘Rhydhun’ released in the year 2000 is said to have set new standards for World Music in India. ‘Rhydhun’ was the first of its kind to be released in India. The album consists of compositions that are not just beautiful in terms of rhythm, tone and harmony but are also a representation of the seasoning that was received by Taufiq from the family pillars of talent par excellence- Ustad Allarakha and Ustad Zakir Hussain.
Some tracks from ‘Rhydhun’ have been featured in international labels titled, ‘Mondo Beat-Master of Percussion’ & ‘India-The Greatest Songs Ever’. ‘Rhydhun’ the album has been released in other countries like: Japan, Germany and United Kingdoms. In India it has run into several editions and has sold beyond platinum disc number- probably the only one to sell thus in this category of music.
Abbaji (Ustad Allarakha) sang for 'Rhydhun'. (This was the first and last time that Ustad Alla Rakha's voice was professionally recorded).
Taufiq considers this as Abbaji’s ‘last blessing’ and attributes the stupendous success of Rhydhun to Abbaji’s blessings.
COLOURS OF RAJASTHAN
‘Colours of Rajasthan’ Taufiq’s first album released in the year 1995, was conceived by Taufiq like a story; that of Rajasthan and of its Rajputs. Taufiq has used over fifty musicians in this album. It has the unique blend of live music: folk, vocal, instrumental and programmed electronic music.
This is actually the first time Ustad Sultan Khan has been featured as a vocalist on an album, in India. He kindly agreed to do so at the behest of Taufiq. This album will always remain close to Taufiq’s heart.
SURYA
Way back into his college days (1985-86) Taufiq created his own fusion band ‘SURYA’. Those were the days when the media and entertainment industry was in its nascent stages in India and the concept of World Music was just about taking shape. ‘Surya’ performed at many public events and commercial events.
The most cherished memories of ‘Surya’s concerts are, when maestros like Ustad Zakir Hussain and Pandit Vikku Vinayakram and Ustad Sultan Khan performed with the band at different occasions. ‘Surya’ had the honour of performing at the ‘Jazz Yatra’, Mumbai in 1989.
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