Change beats: Dancing to her own drummer

French musician crosses cultural constraints in concert.

ISLAMABAD:

French musician Cae collaborated with some of Islamabad’s most talented musicians for what was an uplifting performance at Kuch Khaas on Friday. With an aim of cross-cultural collaboration French Embassy and the Institute for the Preservation of Arts and Culture (IPAC) managed to get the Franco-Haitian artist to perform in the capital which was highly appreciated by the select audience.

Accompanying Cae on stage was the seven piece powerhouse that boasted of Arieb Azhar on vocals and guitar, Ajmal Saab on table, Zeeja Fazli on guitar, Omar Quraishi on accompanying percussion, Akmal Qadri on flute and Zain Ali on guitar and bass along with Gerry, a Vancouver-based saxophone player. Cae’s jazzy vocals seamlessly fit into some of the eastern instruments employed. Much to the delight of the audience, the coordination between the artists resulted in a soothing blend of eastern and western brands of music.

Speaking with The Express Tribune, Cae commented on the successful collaboration saying, “we come to music with different backgrounds, both musically and otherwise, but I found out that differences help make better music”.

Mutual admiration for each other’s talent was evident throughout the performance which almost approached a jam session rather than a rehearsed performance. During a powerful and moving cover of Nina Simone’s ‘Four Women’ the transcending quality of music across geographical boundaries was apparent after it was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience.

Cae also sang some adaptations of songs from various cultures, such as the Hatian-Creo themed ‘One Day the Truth Will Come Out’, along with songs from her album. Another notable performance was ‘Shelter from the storm’ that featured Zeejah Fazli’s intricate guitar skills. The set’s eclectic and lively quality ranged from sultry bluesy rhythms to tribal percussion-based beats.

Arieb Azhar then took the centre stage and performed a rendition of ‘Mast Qalander’. Azhar also sang his famous song ‘Husne Haqibi’. Speaking to The Express Tribune, he said that though it is rare to see foreign artists come to Pakistan, it affords an excellent opportunity for collaboration and “helps to bring out the best in us”. Azhar and Cae also sang a few duets together.

Cae’s raspy and powerful baritone adds to her musical presence. But it’s the control she possesses over her vocals that helps to distinguish her from much of today’s artists.

Original number, ‘Revolution’ closed the night reeling in the audience who bobbed and danced to the beat, while delivering upbeat messages of change and hope.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 22^nd, 2012.