This weekend Mumbai gig promises a musical end to 2022

Adil Manuel

It is a busy farewell to 2022 for guitarist Adil Manuel. With packed schedules and the frenzy of the grand finale, Manuel admits that it can get a bit hectic, but in a good way. Curated by him, the Soulstation gig tonight promises an extensive line-up of 15 musicians with names such as Anusha Ramasubramoney, Shubhangi C, Pushkar Srivatsal and Yohaan Pissurlenker, among others.

"I've dubbed the event Soulstation because most of the music revolves around RnB, blues, funk and soul music," Manuel tells us. The performance will be "groove-driven," he asserts, adding, "The idea is to ensure everyone has a good time and to get them to dance and move."

At the two-day gig which kicked off yesterday, the group is belting out rhythms that echo the past as well as the future. The guitarist explains, "Soul music originated in the US around the '50s and '60s. All funk and blues tracks have deep roots in gospel music, which then evolved. Our sound lies in that sphere as well." The influences are wide-ranging - from the iconic rhythms of the American band Earth, Wind and Fire to Chaka Khan and The RH Factor. There is also a touch of British acid jazz material with bands like Incognito and Brand New Heavies thrown in, he says.

After the hiatus of the pandemic, the buzz is a refreshing change. Especially since it is the electric ambience of the stage that excites Manuel. "You cannot replicate the magic and energy of a live performance. And we have a legendary line-up this time."

With the new year around the corner, the guitarist also promises there is more to come. "I am working on a collaborative EP with musicians from India and overseas that should release in the second half of 2023," he signs off, with a sense of anticipation.

On December 31; 8 pm onwards
AT antiSOCIAL, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Lower Parel West.
Log on to insider.in
Cost Rs 800