Roots & Rhythm: Shakuhachi & Ghatam in Dialogue

A message from Muditā Agency & the Neptune Family

With heavy hearts, we’ve made the difficult decision to postpone the upcoming Roots & Rhythm California tour.

Due to unforeseen personal circumstances, our dear friend and artist Giridhar Udupa is unable to travel to the United States. We’ve chosen to wait until he and John Kaizan Neptune can once again share the stage together, as Roots & Rhythm is meant to be experienced.

Our thoughts are with Udupa and his loved ones during this difficult time.

An Exploration of Japanese, Indian, Latin & Jazz Fusion

Reuniting on stage for the first time in more than two decades — and appearing together in the United States for the first time — acclaimed shakuhachi artist John Kaizan Neptune and Grammy-winning ghatam virtuoso Giridhar Udupa come together for an extraordinary evening of music.

Joined by David Neptune on Takeda percussion, Christophe Ambrosino on guitar, and Spencer Hinkle on bass, the quintet explores original compositions shaped by Japanese melodies, South Indian rhythm, jazz improvisation, Latin influences, and musical traditions from around the world.

Across a rare 90-minute performance, the ensemble creates a sound that is at once intimate, adventurous, and deeply immersive. Each performance unfolds as a living conversation where melody, rhythm, and spontaneity meet in the moment.

More than a concert, Roots & Rhythm celebrates musical friendship, creative exchange, and the power of music to connect people across generations, cultures, and borders.

Your presence helps sustain independent live music and meaningful artistic collaboration. We are deeply grateful to the patrons, supporters, and community members helping bring this experience to life.