HBAF 2023 - Shades of Shakti

Receiving a standing ovation from a full house at the New Zealand Festival of the Arts in 2020, Shades of Shakti is a true East- meets- West collaboration. Bridging the gap between traditional Indian music and jazz, this intercultural group of musicians present an energetic and spellbinding performance.

Exploring the delicate balance between improvisation and composition, their music combines intricate fast melodies, virtuosic rhythms of the tabla, percussion, and expansive raga. Alongside the hynotic tones of the sarangi, a highly resonant, ancient-bowed instrument of India, prepare for an unforgettable performance. This mesmerising show features music from both Ravi Shankar’s East Meets West album and John McLaughlin’s famous group Shakti, from which the group drew initial inspiration.

“Bringing together musical influences from different sides of the world to create something fresh and unique and reinforce the notion that music knows no borders... one of those rare ensembles that transcends into the sonic stratosphere.” – Bret McKenzie (Flight of the Conchords)

The ensemble features master Indian musician Sangeet Mishra, performing on sarangi, New Zealand guitar virtuoso Justin Firefly Clarke, North Indian tabla maestro Basant Madhur, the brilliant violin playing of Monique Lapins and the intricate drumming of Thomas Friggens.

“The ultimate blend of authenticity and virtuosity. Their musicianship is second to none – an eclectic mix of acoustic instruments.” - Chris Gee (Black Seeds, Fly My Pretties, Anika Moa)