‘Berlin to Lahore’ fuses diverse melodies

A band of Pakistani and German musicians transcend cultural and lingustic barriers at a concert in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD:

There is a fine line between fusion and confusion when it comes to merging distinct musical genres. As opposed to staying within strict parameters of a certain genre, fusion gives musicians a chance to break the mold and get more creative with their craft.

Defining fusion, a band of Pakistani and German musicians ‘Berlin to Lahore‘ created an eclectic harmony, transcending cultures and language barriers at a concert organised by Goethe-Institut at Kuch Khaas on Thursday.

The performance kicked off with a pleasantly thematic tune I love travelling, which introduced the instrument players: German pianist Christopher Reuter, percussionist Thomas Rudiger and sitar player Ashraf Sharif Khan, who were joined by guest tabla player Shahbaz Hussain.

Exuding a classical-meets-funky vibe, the musicians got the show rolling with their indigenous sound, dramatic pauses and psychedelic rhythms, while the audience got into the groove with the rich blend of sounds.



Their second piece Dance in Lahore had an essentially eastern classical undertone with western influences to bring transitions of musical genres, which were up-beat and energetic, yet invigorating and soulful.

They also performed Sindhi folk tunes,  such as Khari neem ke neechay with a hint of familiarity, resonating with ardent listeners of Pakistani folk and classical tunes. The interpretation was nostalgic and refreshing — a local tune along with a new feeling and atmosphere through fusion.

Melancholic and slow-moving, Beginning of Love picked up gently and progressed into calculated rhythms before reaching a loud climax. Their performance of Breathing was enriching and pronounced as was that of a German folk tune, moving many with its spontaneous expressions.

Khan’s effortless rendition of the piece was complemented by Rudiger’s powerful percussion, who also used his palms to create rhythm.

Interjected by Rueter’s playful notes, the music entered different dimensions and moods, similar to a musical dialogue among like-minded individuals.

The most exciting part of the show  was when one instrument player started solo and others took cue to surprise the audience, falling in sync in a natural and laidback manner.



Ahead of the highly-improvised Thursday in Islamabad, Hussain mesmerised the audience with a solo performance of the tabla, joined instinctively with the rest of the musicians as they jammed in harmony. They created an ebb and flow that highlighted individual sounds at continual odd intervals.

Khan, descendant of the legendary Ustad Sharif Khan Punjwalay, is from the ninth generation in the lineage of the family of musicians. Originally from Lahore, Khan is now based in Berlin, where he has performed fusion music as part of the band.

“Every concert is different and that’s what we love, improvisation is the main thing that matters,” said Reuter, speaking about elements of experimentation, where each musician plays as he likes.

The band was formed over two years ago when Reuter and Khan met at a festival and came up with the idea of collaborative music. “I instantly knew there was a connection and that there was something we would do,” said Reuter. Soon,  Rudiger joined them on their musical journey from Berlin and the musical trio was formed.

Hussain, who has trained under renowned maestros such as Ustaad Faiyaaz Khan, Ustaad Mian Shaukat Hussain and Ustaad Allah Rakha, has been performing with Khan for a few years.

He performed with the band, bringing his unique flair to the music. “It’s an honour to play with them. It is a good mix of the two cultures,” said Hussain, adding that the idea was to create a balance between the two kinds of music.

The audience responded with fervour, with some head banging, while others swaying gently in surrender to the uplifting rhythms. “I wish my father had accompanied me to this concert – he actually introduced me to the local folk tunes they played here tonight and I thoroughly enjoyed them since I knew the lyrics as well!” said Sarah, an audience member.

The band, which has been touring the country, also performed in Lahore earlier on.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 31^st, 2015.

Like Life & Style on Facebook, follow @ETLifeandStyle on Twitter for the latest in fashion, gossip and entertainment.