Music for the soul

(Right) Vishesh Kalimero on the cretan lyra and Rahul Jigyasu playing the pakhawaj

Goa-based duo Musica Medicina is coming to Versova's Harkat Studios for a night of instrumental free-form folk. Comprising musicians Vishesh Kalimero and Rahul Jigyasu, the band's music is influenced by folk sounds from across the Middle East and Asia, including dhrupad from North India and Rajasthani folk music, bound by a strong contemporary thread. They call it experimental traditional music which sums up the theme of the show and their upcoming album, Traditions without Traditions, Kalimero tells us. "We've been experimenting with traditional music from across the world for 10 to 12 years now. So, our music revolves around folk cultures even while our playing style is very contemporary," he explains.

Jayant Parashar

To achieve this sound, they experiment with a range of traditional instruments such as the Greek cretan lyra, the Persian tar, the pakhawaj, the Turkish yayli tambur, and the Middle Eastern drum, darbuka. While Kalimero oversees the melodies, Jigyasu takes over the percussion. The duo shares what drew them to the instruments: "Acoustic instruments have a special power. They have memories and stories, and offer a different form of wisdom. You just have to listen closely to connect to what they have to say." But the performance in Mumbai will not be all instrumental, adds 30-year-old Kalimero, "There will also be a lot of singing, but in no comprehensible language."

With a setting like this, Musica Medicina promises what they call a meditative cultural experience. Kalimero tells us, "It can be contemplative. I would call it ‘journey music' because everybody can relate to and journey with it." This seems only fitting for a band that wants to offer a type of music that is more than just entertainment.

Michaela Talwar

The 45-to-60-minute performance will be a live and impromptu jam session; the songs are created in the moment. The band calls their style instinctive and intuitive. Jigyasu tells us, "I'm just responding to what Vishesh is doing or he's responding to what I'm doing." For the performance, musician Jayant Parashar will be joining Kalimero to take over from Jigyasu. The pakhawaj and darbuka-player says, "The process of improvisation in live music is something that I love doing. Surrendering to the moment and letting the music flow through you is an irreplaceable feeling."

As the city welcomes live shows and events again, Michaela Talwar, co-curator at Harkat Studios, says Musica Medicina will be an eclectic experience. "We are ready to experiment and bring unique performances to our audience which can only be experienced to their full potential when attended in person."

On: March 12, 7.30 pm
At: Harkat Studios, Versova, Andheri West.
Log on to: insider.in
Cost: Rs 400