Groove to the tracks of popular UK band Above & Beyond at a pulsating Holi gig
It's rare to hear of English Trance bands perform at Indian festivals. But for Above & Beyond, who have been coming to India over the years, it is no less than fascinating. The trio, comprising Jono Grant, Tony McGuinness, and Paavo Siljamäki, are a unique bunch. They have an acoustic and soulful side to their music too. They also host a weekly radio show titled Group Therapy Radio, and are the owners of London-based music labels, Anjunabeats and Anjunadeep. Ahead of their Holi-themed gig, McGuinness opens up about their work and their association with India.
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Excerpts from an interview.
Over the years, what changes have you noticed in India's music scene?
Ever since we started our label, Anjunabeats (named after Anjuna beach in Goa) in 1999, we have been fascinated by Indian culture, people, food, music and the parties. The Electronic scene has grown rapidly in the last five years.
There is so much enthusiasm and energy in the parties. We can't get enough!
Yours is the only EDM act that is into Trance as well as melodious acoustic music. What inspires you to compose?
It can be almost anything — a book we've read, a film we've seen or something that's happened to us that sparks a train of thought that needs a musical or lyrical solution. Fiddling with instruments, be it a guitar or a piano, is a fruitful route as well.
Have you played Holi before? What's on the gig playlist?
We have not, although we have heard a lot [about the festival] and seen photographs. I am not trying to do much research, let it be a surprise. Every gig we play is especially made for the event and we are looking forward to get into the Holi mood.
Tell us about your collaboration with Lagori, the Indian band.
They recorded Indian versions of our songs, Sun & Moon and We Are All We Need (using a sitar and various other Indian instruments). They are available on YouTube. They rewrote the verses but used the choruses from the original versions.
Do you plan to use Indian instruments in your tracks?
None of us play or own Indian instruments. It is odd because our record label is named after an Indian beach that was influential in creating a Trance scene in India. We have always felt close to the country and its people, though.
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