There are debut tracks that introduce a band, and then there are debut tracks that proudly announce them. Rootless, a new collective based in Scotland, lands firmly in the latter category with “RakiTaki Tanana”, a song that expertly builds a living bridge between continents.
The group draws its lifeblood from two deep traditions: the Indian rhythms of bhangra and tabla, and the Romani soul of manele and flamenco-tinged guitar. It’s not just fusion for the sake of fusion; rather, it is a celebration of the roots of the artists and the openness of Scottish culture. As the band notes: “Scotland has a strong folk and festival culture, with audiences who are open to vibrant, diverse sounds. It is a unique place as there are not many other places where Indian and European Roma communities live side by side.” The band’s current lineup consists of Romani musicians David (vocals), Matus (guitar), Martin (bass) and Elisei (Saxophone), and Indian musicians Sodhi (tabla), Prince (dhol), and Karan (vocals).
The Roma trace their roots back to India a millennium ago, and Rootless make that connection feel natural. Sodhi’s tabla and Prince’s dhol hammer like heartbeat and breath, while Karan’s soaring vocals are lifted by David’s rich Romani tones. Elisei’s saxophone cuts through brightly, while the bass and guitar grounds the track into something communal and celebratory.
The music video heightens the sense of celebration. Two saree-clad dancers fold Indian elegance into Romani exuberance, with steps locking perfectly to the percussion. The video, as a result, feels more like a street festival breaking out in real time than a rehearsed, expertly-planned music video. The final sequence, dancers in sync with tabla strokes, is a reminder that music is as much about ancestry as it is about joy.
Rootless explains that they take their name from a history of marginalisation: “Throughout our history since we arrived in Europe, about a millennia ago, we were considered as rootless wandering nomadic people and as a result we were largely marginalised and often enslaved.” With “RakiTaki Tanana”, they reclaim their identities: finding roots in sound, rhythm, and shared celebration.
Rootless will perform at Aberdeen Mela on September 7, 2025. In preparation for the show, put on “RakiTaki Tanana”, and let the music fill you with joy. We could all use a little more happiness in today’s world, and this debut is undoubtedly a fountain of it.
Stream “RakiTaki Tanana” here.
The post Rootless Celebrate Identity with Joyous Debut Track “RakiTaki Tanana” appeared first on Magnetic Magazine.