Stringfellow took to the stage with “sober” tunes wooing his audience literally to his feet. The multi talented performer started off strumming his guitar with no other instrument backing him. And then went onto play keyboards and harmonica. Truly amazing skill and perfection exuded in the playing of all the instruments.
Dr. Eugene Draw took over, first placing his audience in a trance armed with just a violin, reminded me of a snake charmer. An eerie silence worked its way throughout the room with the sound of the lone violin and the sound of breathing. Dr. Draw then suddenly exploded into gasping forms of ecstasy as he stepped things up. He was soon joined by the Beat Drummers in a performance that looked like they’ve been performing together for years on many a tour.
Born and bred in Sri Lanka, the Beat Drummers complimented their western counterparts and highlighted “Beat Drummers” and what they had to uniquely offer at the same time. Sure, the native, traditional drums such as the “Geta Bere”, “Davula”, “Yak Bere” and the “Thammattama” were beaten upon as in a call for war, but believe it or not, plastic containers outshone them all. Anyone who can set a beat on just plastic tubs with such perfection revving an audience into heightened thrills translates into one very talented group of musicians.
Set to perform next was the Jam Band, named Out Of Time. What I loved most about Out Of Time, was their raw, heavy sound and their heartfelt original compositions which carried a theme of “reality”. In your face music I’d say for sure. My only critique is that their session finished a little too soon.
Stringfellow, Dr. Draw and The Beat Drummers along with Out Of Time began “the Jam”. Totally unrehearsed, placing their improvisational skills to the test, released a sound that you don’t hear every day. I raise my glass to Harpo Gooneratne and Dharshini Sumanasekera for placing this amazing musical force on one stage. A definite treat for those who were there that night: a treat that left everyone in want for more.
(Written by Antonia)
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Shahana Jayathillake says:
Mar 30, 2012 at 02:57 pmWhy are we unaware of these concerts? Would have liked to be there if I had known. Antonia, pls let us know of functions like these.