‘I hope I’m not in India too often’

Says veteran guitarist Scott Henderson in jest, as he returns to the city once again for his band Tribal Tech’s concert this week

Guitarist Scott Henderson’s last concert in Mumbai in 2011 as part of his trio was memorable for two reasons: the exceptional musicianship, and the professionalism. The trio’s bassist Travis Carlton (celebrated guitarist Larry Carlton’s son) had just received news that his mother had passed away.

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But instead of taking the next flight home, he decided to play at the concert. It was an emotional experience for both, the listeners and the band.

Also, Henderson left the audience (comprised mostly of musicians) amazed with his signature guitar tone and intricate style of playing. Now he is back again; this time, as part of another celebrated outfit, Tribal Tech. "I hope I’m not coming to India too often; I don’t want people to get tired of hearing me," he jokes. The concert is organised by Sandeep Chowta Projects, an initiative that has brought down veteran jazz-fusion artistes like guitarist Allan Holdsworth and drummer Virgil Donati in the past. Chowta says, "I was glad when the band (Tribal Tech) said that they were touring again and wanted to come to India. I was more than happy to get them down."

Formed in 1984, the band comprises Henderson, Gary Willis (bass), Scott Kinsey (keyboards) and Kirk Covington (drums). Their brand of music mixes blues with jazz and rock.

They split in 2000, but reunited a couple of years ago. “Tribal Tech has been around for a long time and I’m sure the band, as a whole, is more famous than any one of our solo careers. It’s a lot of fun to play songs that the audience recognises. For me personally, playing with this band again is a dream come true,” says Henderson.

Last year, the band released its ninth album, titled X. Apart from songs from X, the concert will feature popular tracks from previous records too.

“And of course, some blues,” promises Henderson, who is also a big fan of Mohan veena player Pt Vishwamohan Bhatt. “He’s played on Sandeep Chowta’s album, Matters Of The Heart, and is one of the best slide guitarists I’ve heard in my life.”

Sandeep Chowta on the musicians
Scott Henderson: With this band, he’s a completely different guy from what he’s like when he plays his blues. You’ll get some real high energy.
Kirk Covington: He is a demolition man, a drum basher.
Scott Kinsey: He’s fantastic with every act he’s part of.
Gary Willis: Almost everyone I know is kicked about Gary coming to perform.