Over a weekend at Midland Junction Arts Centre, audiences were treated to two nights of Indian music. The first night featured traditional Indian music, the second with a contemporary international flair.
As an introduction to the first evening, the audience’s presence was called out as an element of the experience and this became increasingly tangible as the show progressed. From the very first song, audience members were clapping in rhythm to sub-continent classics. While I didn’t share the nostalgia having not grown up with these songs, they were quickly added to my mental playlist.
Featuring compositions by Avra Banajee, who shredded a Sarod harder than I’ve seen anyone on a string instrument before. The chemistry between him and the other 7 musicians was undeniable, as the focus bounced effortlessly between them for the respective solos throughout the night.
A highlight on the first night was their take on a Sufi song, with the harmonium smoothly creating a harmonic backdrop to the vocals. With explanatory notes for each song comparing Indian music traditions with western and other cultural equivalents, this show was one for the music nerds who get deep into the theory.
The musicians came back on the second night to play an array of original compositions providing an intersection of Indian and international sounds. With the same improvisational flair that allows their chemistry to shine through, the sounds responded to the room and vice versa.
This is the kind of show that makes you realise that AI could never replace what it feels like to be in a room full of people with instruments, and the mutual appreciation that makes these nights so special.
Follow SwaraSynthesis here.