Defining fusion, a band of Pakistani and German musicians ‘Berlin to Lahore‘ created beautiful harmonies that transcend cultures and language barriers at a concert organised by Goethe-Institut at Kuch Khaas earlier this week.
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.
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.
Interjected by Rueter’s playful notes, the music entered different dimensions and moods, similar to a musical dialogue among like-minded individuals.
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.
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.
The audience responded with fervour, with some head banging, while others swaying gently in surrender to the uplifting rhythms.
The band, which has been touring the country, also performed in Lahore earlier on.
