Nepal folk ensemble Kutumba  is getting ready for a concert on Saturday, September 4th, where the group of six will be showcasing their new album at Gurukul theater.  The album, which will mark the group's fifth together, has been in the making for two years and will contain nine songs.

Kutumba has gained quite a fan base due to their inventive and unique approach to Nepali folk music.  The group uses traditional, local instruments in new ways, creating an unprecedented sound that is a mix of old and new.

“We've been working on creating a new idea with this album,” said band member Kiran Nepali.  “It's been an experiment with a lot of new sounds, but our basic idea was to bring the instruments to the forefront.”

The multi-talented members of Kutumba own a total of about 55 different instruments that come from all parts of Nepal.  They've experimented with a number of genres including blues, jazz, rock and hip-hop, but they say their upcoming album could be classified as “contemporary folk.”

Kutumba members play everything from electric guitar and tabla, to sitar and sarangi.  They're always receptive to bringing in new instruments to their collection to add to their eclectic sound.   

“There are some instruments in Nepal that are going extinct,” said Nepali, who plays the sarangi.  “We try to use that instrument and keep its sound alive.”

To hear more of Kutumba's sound, check out their concert on September 4th at 5 p.m. in Gurukul.

Do you want to see Kutumba live?  We have two free tickets to give away to ECS Nepal readers!  Comment below on why you deserve to go to the September 4th Kutumba concert... The best response wins!

For more details on the concert go to Kutumba's Facebook page!

Download an exclusive track from their upcoming album!

PHOTO GALLERY

Members of Kutumba practice a song for their upcoming concert on September 4, which is to be held at Gurukul.	Percussionist Pavit Maharjan pounds out a rhythm during the practice.
The sitar's twangy sound gives the group's music a distinct folk feel.	Kutumba's unqiue sound stems from their inventive use of traditional Nepali instruments.
The electric guitar adds a unique, contemporary sound to Kutumba's music.	Kutumba members during a recent morning practice.
Sarangi player Kiran Nepali says the band's focus is to keep the instruments as the main focus of the sound.	Raju Maharjan adds a beat to Kutumba's rhythm.

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