Shreya Rao
Prepare to be transported on a sonic and visual journey! The Stanford Jazz concert was nothing short of an unexpected explosion, blowing you through the horizon. The blend of the ancient roots of Hindustani vocals with the improvisational energy of different jazz-oriented sounds, along with Kanjira, an ancient Indian instrument created a musical metamorphosis. As I approached the theater decorated with colorful flowers and vibrant art pieces, I felt a new sense of excitement and curiosity about what was to come.
Inside, the stage was illuminated with multicolored lights that shone on the performers. Frank Martin, who evoked emotions through the touch of a key, Scott Amendola, who brought the collaborative spirit with his creative beats, Kai Eckhardt, who was the backbone of the band with bass. It was our privilege to witness Selvaganesh’s “Shakti”, his energetic bhols and beats sent shivers down the spines. The legendary George Brooks captivated the audience with his mesmerizing rendition of the ragas. The very talented Mahesh Kale’s charisma was undeniable and his performance transcended the physical, touching the soul of the audience. The blend of these two styles allowed for a unique and lively concert experience that resonated with the audience.
The concert opened with an instrumental piece that constantly shifted, making the next sound unpredictable. Jazz is traditionally envisioned as a slow tempo and softer sound, but this performance was electrifying and completely changed an outlook that a lot of the audience had. The first vocal piece that Mahesh Kale picked was an eight-hundred-year-old poem, and despite being so old it still sounded contemporary coming from him. Mahesh and George seem to intertwine adding depth and warmth to the sound, such that George is playing chords strong and softly, based on Mahesh’s dynamic vocal range creating an emotional expression that brings lyrics to life. Each instrument contributed uniquely and when combined with Mahesh’s vocals, these elements come together to create a captivating performance. Something particularly fascinating was how the instruments didn’t just coexist, they came together to create a beautiful unique wall of sound, creating joy, excitement and an infectious energy. It was a delight to watch the playful competition where Scott and Selvaganesh challenge and respond to each other’s improvisations, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for the audience. Mahesh brilliantly included a ghazal accompanied by George on piano adding a subtle harmonic support to balance the vocal melodic structure creating a sound that is both familiar and innovative.
Mahesh included, encouraged and guided his students in the performance preserving the guru-shishya tradition reflecting his vision of passing down the music heritage. Cheering the audience showing appreciation to the performers, also got a chance to perform when Mahesh encouraged them to sing along with him, enhancing the joy of being an audience. The younger crowd found fusion music to be a creative outlet, considering individual genres can be limiting at times. It is important to mix genres that can be altered to break boundaries and push creative limits. Also, the slots between the songs where the artists would talk were found insightful and humorous. This helped the younger audience to better connect to the music, artists and the bond they share with each other.
Fusion music is a great way to embrace various cultures’ music all in one. When we are used to hearing ragas or alaaps with tanpura and tabla, the new experience of hearing ragas with various traditional and modern instruments can jolt your attention and keep your senses intrigued, this truly transports you to a new sonic experience. The event concluded with a sweet treat from India served by smiling ICMA volunteers and the audience walked out with every sense awakened and delighted.
