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Classic poems set to modern tunes

Delightful Blend
Last Updated 22 July 2013, 13:34 IST

There is a wealth of Kannada spiritual poetry which, thanks to low levels of awareness and a general lack of interest in the area, isn’t being paid the attention it deserves. But Vachana Band, a group of musicians who understand the potential of this literature to break barriers and appeal to a wider audience, are trying to change that. They’ve artfully blended the essence of this poetry with a contemporary rhythm and the result is a treat for the ears. The band recently performed along with Neecia Majolly at the Alliance Francaise de Bangalore, to a packed hall that was pleasantly surprised by the delightful tunes.

The band used an eclectic motley of instruments, including the harmonium, drums, keyboard and guitar. The poems they presented on the occasion were written
in the 12th century and although they varied in terms of mood and beat, they all had the same degree of intensity.

“We regard these poems as spiritual rather than religious,” explains Ramakrishna, who played the harmonium.

The first piece they played was called Vedava Nod and it was characterised by a strong sense of rebellion and protest. For the benefit of the non-Kannada-speaking members in the audience, Neecia first sang a few lines in English.

The fusion between the deeply traditional lyrics and the modern style of playing was delightful. The piece, which was lively and spirited, was written by Basavanna.
After this, they moved on to a more soulful number — Harivanadige, a vachana that was written by Allama Prabhu.

The tune was softer and echoed slightly, with melancholic lyrics that had the audience mesmerised. The third composition, which was also by Allama Prabhu, was slightly chirpier, with a lot more participation from the chorus singers. There was a palpable energy behind the piece.

Mahesh, who had come to watch the show along with a group of friends, admits that he was pleasantly surprised by the performers.

“I didn’t know much about the band but this was a good show. It’s interesting to see the fusion of different styles of music. It was also great that the lyrics were sung in English as well, for those of us who don’t understand Kannada,” he says.

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(Published 22 July 2013, 13:34 IST)

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