Empire Beats

The Festival of Tabla (August 22–23, 2026, Soka Performing Arts Center) welcomes one of Kerala’s most powerful percussion traditions: the chenda. Carved from jackfruit wood, this ancient drum features two contrasting sides—the sharp, high-pitched Edamthala and the resonant bass Valamthala—creating a thunderous soundscape born from centuries of temple and festival traditions.

Where the tabla speaks with melodic intricacy, the chenda answers with raw power and precision. This profound rhythmic connection was immortalized in 2017 when Kerala’s temple drums and the late Ustad Zakir Hussain shared a historic stage. As the global music community continues to honor Ustad Zakir Hussain’s immense legacy, this performance stands as a quiet tribute to the artistic bridges he built across Indian percussion traditions.

Carrying forward this spirit of cultural preservation, Empire Beats was formed in 2021 by Malayalee families in Eastvale, Riverside County. Now one of Southern California’s most active ensembles, the group brings together nearly 20 multigenerational performers. On August 23, Empire Beats will present a vibrant six-member ensemble showcasing Shinkari Melam—a celebratory form full of energy and synchronization, bringing the authentic, beating heart of Kerala directly to the Festival of Tabla audience.