KATHMANDU
The melodious strains of music filled the air as the students of St Xavier's School were treated to an unforgettable experience at a free concert on the first day of Surya Nepal Jazzmandu 2023 that began in the Capital on November 2.
Bringing together an array of talented bands from across the globe, including Australia, the Netherlands, the USA, France, Switzerland, Africa, and the local Cadenza Collective, this event weaved a harmonious tapestry of jazz.
The auditorium was filled with excitement as the young schoolchildren eagerly awaited the event to start.
Plurism, comprising a fusion of Swiss and African musicians, kicked off the show. Led by Dominic Egli (drums), Feya Faku (trumpet), Reto Suhner (alto saxophone), Sisonke Xonti (tenor saxophone), and Xaver Ruegg (upright bass), they played the composition When It All Happened. This piece blended the timeless elegance of jazz with the invigorating Afrobeat produced by Feku's masterful trumpet playing. Each note that resonated through the venue made
it feel like one being in an African Savannah at the dusk. The music evoked imagery of a breathtaking sunset casting its warm orange hues upon the trees and shrubs of the Savannah while simultaneously guiding the mind into a state of pure musical bliss. The other compositions played by the band were Kanon and Trumpets for Captain Rackete.
The Under the Surface band from the Netherlands showcased their musical versatility with improvised versions of their tracks Lolaba Part 1 and Moksha - both from their second album Trinity. Led by Joost Lijbaart on drums and Bram Stadhouders on guitar, their music evoked deep emotions and transported the mind to different realms.
Lolaba Part 1 created a trance-like atmosphere that resonated with the innermost thoughts, putting one in a state of deep meditation. The melodies and rhythmic patterns took on a journey through introspection, allowing them to delve into past experiences while fostering optimism for what lies ahead.
On the other hand, Moksha blended elements of Dutch folk with jazz influences, resulting in a spiritual fusion. The music captured the essence of windmills swaying in the breeze and lupin fields in the Netherlands.
The musical collaboration of American artiste Adrian Crookston (accordion and vocals), along with Nepali artistes Rajat Rai (guitar) and Navin Chettri (drums), created a captivating performance as the band Palouse. Their rendition of the songs Sanfona Sentida and E Proibido Cochilar showcased the distinctive sound of Crookston's accordion, which was notably prominent in Sanfona Sentida. The vibrant music generated Yuletide vibes with its groovy rhythms, engaging the audience with its lively energy. The upbeat sound of E Proibido Cochilar compelled young audiences to let loose their inhibitions and move their bodies to the beats.
Meanwhile, Cadenza Collective members Rai (guitar), Navin (drums), and Samir Chettri (bass), accompanied by Nick Aggs (saxophone), enthralled the audience with their energetic renditions of Namaste/Welcome Speech. However, it was their performance of Momo Funk that truly energised the young crowd. The adoration for momo among the Capital's youth was evident as they enthusiastically shouted and revelled in the music that celebrated this beloved dish. Momo Funk evoked a sense of nostalgia and pure joy akin to indulging in a plateful of mouthwatering momo at one's favourite restaurant, while simultaneously prompting an irresistible urge to dance from deep within one's heart.
Aggs said, "The event succeeded not only in providing entertainment but also in igniting a passion for music in these young minds. Music is a universal language, and today's concert not only entertained but also educated young students about the richness of world culture and the power of music in fostering unity."
The last performer of the concert brought together an ensemble from France consisting of Lucile Chrique (vocals), Bruno Schorp (bass), Gaetan Diaz (drums) and Arthur Links (guitar). Their performances comprised Kenha Ki Bem and Deixa eu dizer.
Chrique's vocals during the rendition of Kenha Ki Bem stole the show. Her deep and resonant voice added a remarkable depth to the energetic music while harmoniously merging with the sophisticated dance of melodies. The overall experience evoked a sense of wandering through the enchanting streets of Paris, with each note echoing the city's timeless romanticism.
Chrique said, "It was crazy, as I had never seen such a young and enthusiastic public that was free to express themselves. I can perform for them all day long."
Towards the end of the concert, artistes came together and jammed on stage to perform the new song, France Dekhi Nepal. This harmonious collaboration served as a powerful reminder that music transcends borders.
Valley Jams are scheduled for November 3 across different venues in the Capital - Jazz Upstairs, Lazimpat; Electric Pagoda, Thamel; Evoke, Jhamsikhel and EDN, Sanepa.
