Although it’s been eight years that Toronto-based world jazz ensemble Avataar has been performing, it was only recently the group released its first record, which it will officially debut during a March 30 show at Lula Lounge.

Led by vocalist-Saxophonist Sundar Viswanathan, Avataar will perform a selection from its new CD, christened Petal and will include all original band members and guests who recorded the album at the show.

The CD, Viswanathan said, crosses many different genres.

“It’s rooted in jazz, but is influenced by classical Indian and Brazilian music,” Viswanathan told The Villager, adding there are hints of Jimi Hendrix, Enya and John McLaughlin. “It’s a pretty eclectic sounding record. I’ve taken my time with this record, honing the sound.”

Viswanathan said he is looking forward to performing at Lula Lounge, known for playing international salsa, jazz and world music.

“People there are amazing. They’re really supportive of the music. I consider them all friends,” he said. “It’s just a really good space with great energy.”

More than two decades immersed in the music business, Viswanathan said he didn’t know to what extent he would be playing music.

“I started out as a composer,” he said.

Initially he thought he’d start out in computers, but math wasn’t his strong suit. Instead, the Subury, Ontario native turned to music – his other passion.

He studied classical music at Laurier University and thought he’d become a film composer. Instead, a teacher encouraged him to learn to play jazz.

Viswanathan said he would like audiences to think of Avataar’s music as a journey. The songs that comprise Petal are connected. There are ongoing themes throughout the CD. The ensemble is a recipient of the 2016 Toronto Jazz Festival Special Projects Initiative award and is led by Viswanathan, a multiple-JUNO nominated jazz saxophonist, vocalist and composer. The group has appeared at the Markham Jazz Festival, Small World Festival, the Sudbury Jazz Festival and the Brampton Global Jazz Festival.