Kalsi took on the role of a sideman in addition to session work, and performed with the Afro Celt Sound System on their second album, Release, which also featured Sinéad O'Connor.

During the time he was with Transglobal underground Kalsi and The Dhol Foundation provided support in a European tour with rock musicians Page & Plant.

The album was recorded live at performances around the world, absorbing the differing musical influences of bands they toured with, and contributed to their sound.

Big Drum Small World, featuring a large photo of Kalsi on the album cover, was released on Shakti Records in 2001.

[10] Kalsi drew upon his experience as a session player and his understanding of ethnic and western instruments to work as producer for the album.

Towards the end of 2002 Kalsi worked with the teenage pop singer Avril Lavigne, when she recorded a cover of Bob Dylan's "Knockin' on Heaven's Door".

[citation needed] Early July Johnny Kalsi was commissioned to curate a piece of music for HRH HM Queens' Coronation Gala Concert Festival.

Just ahead of the release of the 5th album, Basant, Johnny Kalsi took The Dhol Foundation to USA for their debut tour.

21 April Johnny Kalsi was requested to open for a special concert for HRH HM Queens' 92nd Birthday.