Thriloka

Three World Phenomenon:

by Nilama DOLE

When the enchantment of Thriloka overtakes you, the magic of fusion will resonate in your senses. Empowering your soul and enthralling you with a positive wave of energy, a subtle feeling will rush through your body when you discover Thriloka.

Without words or lyrical content, a universal sound that is graced by one and all really defines the true spirit of Sri Lankan music.

What is the meaning of Thriloka?

Thriloka prodigy Pabalu Wijegunawardena, the drummer for tabla and ‘bera’ of the band, explained how their name was coined, “Ours is a fusion of three worlds and that was how we carved the name Thriloka.

One aspect covers ‘soft and subtle music’, the other ‘heavy and strong music’ and the last reveals what happens when both these aspects are combined in a palate of fusion and blends into one world”.

It is this diversity and togetherness that joins forces to give birth to a unique fruit that is extremely sweet.

Who is Thriloka?

Pabalu hails from a musically oriented family who are maestros in dancing and have this musical culture running in their blood.

He is also a great drama performer and previously played for a fusion band called Akash where he co-incidently met Janaka Priyashantha (master drummer) along the way.

Playing perfect peak percussion for the band, Pabalu usually is caught in a mantra ‘trance’ when handling the instruments.

Brothers in the band are Sarani who plays the guitar and Uvindu Perera who plays ‘bera’ and tabla alongside Pabalu when they harmonise together.

Eshantha, a music degree holder and a classically trained pianist who is an extensive traveler plays piano for the band (naturally) and also is popular for his solo efforts.

Harshan Gallage is a self-taught drummer, a lover of drums at an early age who plays for Thriloka. These highly talented gurus of music perform individually everyday at every chance they get and the best part comes when they unite in a force that is sure to reckon with.

Music Style

“Our music is a mix of Earth, Heaven and Fire, where we blend all three together in a kind of holistic approach” says Pabalu.

He adds, “Music is a reaction to yourself and a pure creation of what you feel”. Be it anyone, the Queen of England or even a beggar, they all can listen and love Thriloka’s music making all at ease.

Album Launch

‘Bisura: Realm of Higher Listening’ is the name of their gorgeous melodic album that was launched on the 27th of August at Barefoot.

They put together seven lucky songs incorporating swaying beats and essential tunes to soothe any soul. Their list includes ‘Invocation’, ‘Prashasthi’, ‘Raga de Latino’, ‘Mirror and I’, ‘Seven 2 Six’, ‘Maha Ravana’ and ‘Rana Mayura’.