MIDIval PunditZ

This New Delhi-based group jumped on the Asian Underground bandwagon early on and became the first Indian electronic outfit signed to an international label. Founders Gaurav Raina and Tapan Raj are children of modern India -- steeped in the pop, classical and folk traditions of their country and, as young adults, exposed to the hip-hop, house and drum 'n' bass coming out of Europe and America. Both Raina and Raj felt the international electronic scene didn't draw on the richness of India's music or speak as much as it could to Indian fans. They set up a series of dance parties (Cyber Mehfils) in Delhi and started recording at night. They eventually drew the attention of Talvin Singh, who promptly put them on a compilation and helped launch their career.