The Three Seas

At the helm of The Three Seas is Australian composer and saxophonist Matt Keegan, whose pursuit of new sonic frontiers led him to India in 2009. It was there, in the enchanting town of Santiniketan, West Bengal, that fate brought the ensemble together. From this meeting of cultures and an immediate musical connection, The Three Seas emerged, an energetic and uplifting fusion shaped by instinct, tradition, and exploration.

Fronting the ensemble is Baul singer Raju Das, whose resplendent voice and magnetic stage presence are elevated by his mastery of the khamak and its irresistibly danceable rhythms. Born into a nomadic tribe with a rich cultural heritage and its own language, Raju carries forward traditions steeped in spirituality and a profound connection to the energetic life force within the human body. These philosophies, expressed through song and movement, form the foundation of The Three Seas’ contemporary interpretations of ancient Baul music, celebrating the enduring human spirit.

Darjeeling-born singer and multi-instrumentalist Deoashish Mothey adds depth and texture with his soulful vocals and Himalayan-inspired soundscapes. His command of a range of West Bengali stringed instruments brings intricate, mesmerising layers that weave seamlessly into the ensemble’s sound.

On drums, Gaurab Chatterjee, known for his work with Bengali rock pioneers Lakkhichhara, injects the music with rhythmic vitality, drawing from a deep well of traditional West Bengali folk percussion.

At various points, the ensemble is joined by collaborators Cameron Dyall, Steve Elphick, and Brendan Clark, each contributing to an ever-expanding and richly textured sonic palette.