The Score Magazine - May-June 2010

Vol 03 Issue 02 May-June 2010

For Private Circulation Only ISSN 0974 – 9128

THE RAINBOW BRIDGE anything for the perfect photo

VIJAY ANTONY different music is NOT appreciated by the masses

RAAVAN vs RAAVANAN Do the combinations combine?

AR Rahman and Mani Ratnam on the pedestal

http://www.jsfitness.in

the edit PAD

Editor-in-Chief Nikila Srinivasan Executive Editor Daniel Thimmayya Operations and Marketing Pragash VM Creatives Director Alan Hadle Hamilton Strategy and Planning Ajay Prabhakar Production Fayaz Mohammed George Vedamanickam Design Vivek R Marketing Layeequlla Baig

During the past few months, I’ve answered the question “So what’s this magazine like?” many, many times. My word-of-mouth overseas promotion of The Score Magazine apart, the overarching power of Google Talk status messages was a complete revelation to me. All it took was a simple www.highonscore.com on the IM and the questions began. The real challenge though, was coming up with the right description - not too pompous, yet subtly indicative of our supreme glory rising success as Chennai’s premier music and entertainment magazine.

While I toyed with various pitches to convey our awesomeness in under five minutes, I settled for a simple ”Why don’t you check the website out? It worked. Phew. The responses have ranged from “Hmm. Interesting” (roughly translating to : I barely read it!) to “Quirky”, “Bold”, “Refreshing”, “I found a typo!” or “This is great, but here’s what I think you should add...” Clearly, the magazine does a better job speaking for itself than its verbose editor. That’s why I’ll leave you without my usual preview of all that’s in store in our pages this time.

Although, I must mention that this issue stays true to all the quirky and bold descriptions that The Score Magazine has received over the months. There’s the fascinating Rainbow Bridge and Sanjeev with his quest for the perfect music video that we chronicled; there are the absolutely unapologetic, perhaps even brash to some, notes, rants, ravings and rambles of our talented bunch of writers. Marilyn Manson’s bloodbath birthdays and Navjot Sidhu as a carnatic student. Score!

I’ll let you find your inner rebel with the page flips while I go back to perfecting my verbal marketing pitch. Once you’re done, do remember to drop in one word, two cents or three strikes about us to editor@highonscore.com My pitch could use some perfecting.

Bask in the glorious tropical heat, folks. I miss it!

Faiza Moumin Aparajita Kar Distribution Arvind Thinagarajan Content Advisor Solomon Porres

Nikila Srinivasan has been a columnist and contributor for several reputed national publications and has authored three books. She has had the honour of being one of India’s Olympic torchbearers at the Athens 2004 Olympic Torch Relay

Nikila Srinivasan

Photography G Venkata Krishnan S Srirama Santhosh Illustrations and Creatives Francis Xavier

‘The Score Magazine’ is wholly owned and published by

The Score Magazine is proud to support the Mother Teresa Foundation and urge our readers to join us in giving back a fraction of what we have been given

brand partners

Registered Office: 38/23, Venkatesa Agraharam, Mylapore, Chennai 600 004 For Advertisements and Feedback

marketing@thescoremag.com +91 9500012975

DISCLAIMER: Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photography or illustrations without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and illustrations. Views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publication and accordingly no liability is assumed by the publisher thereof. Advertising copy and artworks are the sole responsibility of the advertisers.

Cover Photography All pictures taken with The Rainbow Bridge were conceptualized and shot by S SRIRAMA SANTHOSH

i nside We got vic!

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Take a peek at everything that happened when the czar of bass descended on our sun dried shores and held a workshop for all and sundry

dixit’s ditties

24

Raghu Dixit may be hot property in the Kannada market, but he’s still one hell of a funny guy - especially when the jokes on him!

I am Antony

26

First it was the music bug. Now its the movie bug thats bitten up and coming Music Director Vijay Antony.

Read about his lens antics

band aid

28

Thinking of starting a band? Pore over our all-you-need-to-know 4 page guide about bands and then take the plunge

crikey notes

42

Heard about the all new IPL band in town? No? turn those pages and let the cricket flow into you, if the sheer music of it doesn’t!

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how to shoot the

Rainbow Bridge

8

Pix S Srirama Santhosh

taking cover daniel thimmayya | danny@highonscore.com

This is what happens when you put four whacky,utterly busy, in-demand musicians, a photographer and a few flickering lights in the same room, wait, the SAME room?!

M

ost people would think it is among the simpler things to accomplish. After all how hard could taking photos of a band based in Chennai be?

I mean, it’s as simple as Step 1 - Pick up your mobile phone (Ensure you have loads of balance in the case of prepaid users) Step 2 - Call one band member (Henceforth referred to as Contact Person) and fix shoot Step 3 – Send Photographer Right?

Wrong. Very VERY wrong - Especially if the band in question happens to be The Rainbow Bridge.

When I first contacted Sanjeev Thomas, guitarist and vocalist of the band, and told him that we’d like to do an interview and photo shoot for our cover, he was pretty accommodative.

“As long as you get the guys together, I’m game” he said. “Everyone’s doing plenty of things in different directions, so it’ll take some effort” How difficult could it be, I thought to myself and accepted.

Sanjeev has been doing a lot of guitar work in movies, most of which is with AR Rahman. The other band member associated with him being Benny Dayal, I got to work confirming dates with him next. I know for a fact that playback singing takes up long and erratic hours in the recording studio. Thankfully I got through to him fairly easily “Thursday morning is good for me,” said Benny.

It was a Monday – which gave me ample time to prepare for the shoot. I gleefully sat with the photographer and thought of a concept involving a catamaran and a purple umbrella amongst other things. I even called an agent and arranged for the boat.

Sanjeev saved me some trouble and got drummer Jerry John and bassist Wayne Fernandez prepped for the sunrise shoot.

“We’ve been associated with the beach too many times,” he complained, but submitted.

Come Wednesday night, I began making confirmatory calls and everything seemed to be falling into place. Photographer – Check, Catamaran – Check, Sanjeev – Check, Jerry – Check, Wayne – Check … Benny? “Benny isn’t reachable,” I frantically called Sanjeev “Now you know why I pawned off that responsibility!” he chuckled.

Just as my blood pressure began mounting, I received a text message from him, “Recording in Bombay da…Really Sorry…

Can’t make it tomorrow” Cancellation time. The deadline was staring at me a little starker as every day passed.

Benny called the next day and apologized profusely. You’ve got to hand it to the man – his sincerity is probably what makes up for his timing; that and his voice. “We’ll do it tomorrow morning, for sure” he promised. Arrangement time again.

The checklist appeared to be moving pretty smoothly this time. A little too smoothly. This time around the snag came from another quarter. Jerry, who had been the life and rhythm of Junkyard Groove previously, is now opening a drum school called Third Culture Sound. And he had a sponsorship meeting at, “8.30 AM in Sriperumbudur” Great. The other end of the city from the beach Sanjeev pawned this one on me as well, so I called Jerry and negotiated with him well past 1 AM – Despite offers of dropping him myself, 30 minute shoots, speed driving and prayers he did not yield. I didn’t blame him one bit. “I postponed the meeting because of the shoot that got cancelled. I actually left Chennai and moved back to Dubai for a while. Now that I’m

back I’m banking on this school, man” he said in all sincerity.

I conceded.

Cancellation #2 and Cackling time for Sanjeev T again. If only I didn’t like his music. If only.

Incidentally Sanjeev, Jerry and Benny are all non-residential Malayalis…Uh Indians from the Arab states who are all settled in Chennai and are neck-deep in music.

Through the most of Friday, I kept trying to broker time for a shoot between Jerry’s and Benny’s schedule as they both had shows that evening. Finally I got a break. Jerry called Benny and they agreed that we’d do the shoot post midnight at Jerry’s home-cum-drum-school.

Armed with lights and light men, photographer and camera, I made it about a half-hour prior. It was the first time I’d come into contact with Wayne, who struck me as the strong and silent type, somehow. Anyway the first thing that met me was “Benny’s phone is off ” those words of doom haunted me for a few hours after – the feeling of dread rising more each time the recorded voice said “The number you’re trying …”

We decided to go ahead with the shoot. The photographer wound strips of bright light (that changed colour) around the drums; somehow it looked in dubious taste, but to each their own I conceded. With two costume changes and two locations, the energy of the band was impressive considering it was past their Saturday binge. “I don’t have a white shirt” stated Wayne. Unearthing an old shirt, I turned it inside out. “Brilliant” he said tiredly.

We wound up and left just past 3. Just as I was limping home, Benny called. He’d had a big recording and his phone had died before he could get the message out. Any anger I had sort of washed away when he said “I feel like a misfit…They(the band) must really hate me” Joked about, yes – Hated, not quite I explained. But the man was dripping with remorse “We’ll do it Sunday morning for sure. I’ll make the arrangements” he promised. Hope flickered that my nerves might just survive.

Sunday morning was a pleasant surprise. Benny called me “Running slightly late but will be there by 1” he promised.

When I got to Rainbow Bridge, Sanjeev’s house/studio, there was Jerry on the couch, Sanjeev in bed, Benny on the way. All is well. Wait, Where was… “It was Wayne’s brothers wedding last night…He’s not picking up” Final nail. My coffin was looking prettier by the minute.

Benny arrived and showed us his new scarf and top hat. Sanjeev got out of bed. Photographer decided we’d shoot at the Museum. And Wayne wasn’t picking up. “Wayne’s like a snail.

He’ll take a while to get here from Anna Nagar” joked Jerry “I have a class at 2, by the way”. They better write me a long epitaph.

That light people keep talking about; the one that shines at the end of every tunnel, unless it’s night. It began to shine for me round about when someone said on the phone “Wayne, wake up…” It seemed like a dream as we went to the Museum and they got down to it.

I daresay you’ve seen the photos. I really couldn’t hold anything against them beyond that.

They’d shown me what Sanjeev calls the “philosophy” of The Rainbow Bridge – live and in person. Every day is an adventure. Every song is a journey. Every gig is an experience. Every photo op is a reason to be silly.

They hadn’t had an attitude about anything. That left me feeling good, somehow.

Until Sanjeev said “You actually got the band together. You should be our Manager. Interested?”

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Day 1 - 10:52 AM For someone who’s probably grown up with a guitar and a mic, the 2 hours Sanjeev spent sitting around waiting for the lighting to be finalized, made him grumpy enough to chuck both when the call for ‘BREAK’ came

Day 1 - 12:08 PM Its probably because the Director assured him that the video was in B&W, that Sanjeev brought the black tee with PINK writing that said ‘Top of the POP’ “Its an expression of my feminity” he joked earlier when i asked him about his slightly dubious choice of clothing.

Ah Sanjeev, If ONLY you had known we were going use this picture in multi-colour!

Day 1 - 17:34 PM Whether she got the emotions the Director wanted was debatable, but devoid of emotions, Lena most certainly was not! Animated and full of chatter about the spirits in the Earth and other related phenomena she certainly kept everyone’s spirits up

Day 2 - 08:05 AM Sanjeev and costumeprovider-for-the-day Reshma, stand guard over the trusty car that served as a means of transport, luggage dump and changing room on the streets of Pondy. Hey, as long as the lady and the authorities didn’t mind, we weren’t complaining!

Day 2 - 10:14 am Loaded up with sausages and eggs, Sanjeev returned to the streets of Pondy to play airguitar with a vengeance! Lets just say everyone who passed that way in sleepy Pondy were in for quite the eye-opener early in the morning. Think guitarist playing without sound and you shall SEE!

10 Pix Mahesh Nair

Talking STRINGS

celluloid tripping with

Sanjeev thomas

With the video of Still Searching almost entirely in Black and White, Sanjeev has finally earned one tag his music hasn’t COLOURLESS

“I’m shooting a new video this weekend,” said Sanjeev Thomas “But I haven’t found a woman for it yet” Now I agree I’ve done a great many things for the sake of a story.

I must admit I’ve never made so many calls that began with “Listen…I need a woman ASAP…” Not for a while, anyway!

The other ‘first-time-I-ever’ that night happened while Sanjeev played Still Searching, the song that the video was for. Now many a musician/self-proclaimed music director have blasted jarring, border-line weird, mediocre music at me from powerful speakers in a confined studio, leaned back and smugly asked “Well, how cool was that?”

For those of you unaccustomed to the said setting, the correct procedure is to smile evenly, clear your throat and nod vigorously (alternating between both) When the song ended Sanjeev looked at me and raised an eyebrow. I don’t know what it was that made me say it, but I did anyway. The words just came out, “I love the riff but I think the intro is bland – do you think you can add it there?” Without a word he turned toward his Apple Mac and twiddled away. Fearing the worst, I began thinking of alternate stories for the Cover.

Five minutes of twiddling and he played the song again. I was quite shocked (a little touched, perhaps) that a guitarist I’d admired for quite a while now, had just acted on my novice feedback. “Sounds nice this way,” he grunted with a smile.

I began liking Sanjeev T, as a person, right about then.

A couple of days (and plenty of fruitless phone calls) later, Sanjeev called “It’s on for tomorrow. We’ve got a girl” Relief flooded me. My girl-hunting days were over and my story was ON. The first part of the shoot was at Studio Arts, a hole-in-the-wall, well, studio in Vadapalani, “Ipadikku Rose is shot here,” said the beaming owner. Sanjeev got there remarkably early (9 AM) with wardrobe, guitars and brother in tow. When I eventually landed up there, I was introduced to Mahesh Nair who was directing the video, “The girl is crazy about the guitarist (Sanjeev) and keeps trying to meet him but only gets to in the end,” he sketched the basic storyline. Considering lensman Arun was also from Kerala, most of the chatter was in Malayalam. (This story is a testament to my linguistic prowess!)

This basically meant that all Sanjeev had to do was play air-guitar and sing to the camera in different clothes. The professional that he is, he carried it out, sweaty but never sour. “I don’t quite like the romantic element they’ve brought in,” complained Sanjeev “But I trust Mahesh, so whatever!”

Heading back to Sanjeev’s place (The Rainbow Bridge) we made first contact with Lena, our heroine-to-be. Tall, lanky and strongly blonde, the Russian girl seemed quite sure of her assets “I told him (Sanjeev) I was beautiful on the phone. I was right, no?” I got out of that one, somehow. Like most expats in Kalakshetra she did speak of the earth, happiness and spirits amongst other things.

Next came Jerry John, Sanjeev’s drummer who had done the rap segment in the song.

With a nice shiny red tee and Akon-ish chains to match he looked fit for the part.

“S**t! I don’t remember the words. It was some random stuff I recorded then. Anyone seen my paper?” was his only worry.

Day 2 was set in sunny (read – blazing hot) Pondicherry. We actually stuck to the schedule reasonably well, waking Sanjeev at 2:45 AM and driving off at 3:30 AM. Cars are hard to come by and I did not take to complaints about my car’s a/c all that well.

Sanjeev (that deserter) scooted to the other car for air conditioning at our first tea break.

Driving into Pondy, just past 6 AM, we made it to the French Quarter in time to start shooting Lena walking in the lanes and alleys of Pondy. “I wrote this song after a break-up,” he revealed, looking away. Now this was confusing as the song wasn’t quite your average sad song “The carnatic guitar tune is my sadness. The words are someone else’s” Despite the conclusions people may draw from his appearance, life and gossip mills, I realized that Sanjeev Thomas was a man who took his relationships seriously, within.

When the heat really shot up, the day long schedule wound up by 11 AM, with Lena effecting three costume changes in the car itself and walked up and down Pondy’s streets with Malayalee cameraman following her every move.

Driving back was quieter, with everyone out like a box of fused lights, and I made it back to Chennai without much ado. Just as the crew and Lena hatched plans of taking some shots in a train before the Authorities intervened, Sanjeev asked to be taken home. The binge had taken its toll on him. Finally.

There was just one question left for me to ask. And I did it as we reached his driveway.

“Why?” And just like the musician he is, he swung his guitar over his shoulder, half smiled and answered dramatically, “Because my music needs a face. Mine.”

And just like that I admired the man.

Believe me, it takes a lot to believe in yourself.

It takes more, if you’re Sanjeev Thomas.

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ashwath Nair | ashwath@highonscore.com

victor wooten and the

MUSIC FACTO

F

irst came the announcement Then came the ticket Then came the friend who I would carpool with And finally, the pearly gates of bass guitar heaven I think you know what I’m talking about. This was what April 3, 2010 felt like for a lot of people, myself included. Why you may ask. I’m not one for beating around the bush so I’ll get straight to the point. Five words. VICTOR WOOTEN BASS GUITAR WORKSHOP. It was beautiful. There was hardly ANYONE who came.

The huge auditorium that was given out for the show was used for this master-class. And only 200 odd people turned up. Now here’s an interesting sight. Almost 90% of the people, who came, brought their guitars for the workshop.

This was because on the ticket, it said that we can maybe jam with Wooten, MAYBE. So we all come in to the auditorium after much socialising and park ourselves on very comfortable seats. Guitar Prasanna comes onto stage and says, ‘Ladies and Gentlemen. God’s greatest gift to music and mankind. Mr. Victor Wooten.’ The crowd goes WILD. So wild that an IPL match could be put to shame. Mr.Wooten appears in the flesh.

He says HI and starts playing this 30 minute piece; a friend and I take turns recording this masterpiece on her camera. He introduces himself formally after the piece and the crowd goes wild again. He tells us that he won’t teach us how to play the bass but have a discussion on various ideas.

He starts off by saying that just because he’s Victor Wooten, that doesn’t make him absolutely right about stuff that he says. He’s still learning. He would help us play better. He told us that what he’s doing is giving us a spice to use. Not for our current ‘dish’ but for later. He told us that there’s no right or wrong and that when we play something ‘Wrong’, we were just half a step away from the right note. He had many more of such words of wisdom to share with us BUT that would take up the entire magazine. I’m serious.

He kept unloading these amazing lessons in life and the bass guitar and how HE got to play the bass. After this session, we got down to discuss questions with the man. At least that was the plan. A few Einsteins asked him about various intelligent subjects like his balance between his personal life and professional life. Another wise-guy asked him how one could create their own alternative tuning on a bass guitar and Mr. Wooten answered plainly.

One boy earnestly asked him how to make his band work.

Wooten simply called this guy up on stage and told him to play along with an imaginary ‘Band’. Voila. This guy gets a groove. After all these questions, Mr. Wooten told everyone that it’s time to jam. 7 courageous men, and 1 girl, came up with all their guitars, plugged in and started playing, randomly. Wooten stopped the band on stage and asked them to have a conversation with each other through their instruments. I kid you not; it turned into an instrumental version of a fish market.

Then Wooten comes in and saves the day by doing what the ‘band’ never seemed to do, LEAD. The jam session became progressively better, sans the crappy vocals of Aum Janakiram of LGBT (whoops) I mean LBG. He said that Guitar-man ‘Vikkie’ Vivekanand was an amazing guitarist for taking the effort to start the jam and secondly for their similar First name (Vic and Vik).

Then Prasanna comes in and tells US that the band needs to do a sound check for the show that same evening. So we all pulled out our cellphones and guitars and asked Mr. Wooten for his autograph. I was happy I got mine on my guitar.

We even had a little talk on what the base scale of my cell phone ringtone was.

Two words.

D MAJOR!

Training with Wooten How often does the average kid who thinks the guitar is cool get to jam with a legend? Once a year, apparently! Wonder who’s next on the GIT list?

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Pix S Srirama Santhosh

TORY

School of ROCK

So workshops aren’t high on peoples priority lists.

Fair enough.

Guess its a completely different story if your instructor and resident humorist turns out to be Victor Wooten

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sound of steel Preeti krishnakumar | preeti@highonscore.com With the whole world now behind his secret, the man of iron has found his soft-spot

A

TONY’s Goliath

nd Again. (With Jon Favreau ,Robert Downey, Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Scarlett Johansson, Sam Rockwell, Jon Favreau, Clark Gregg, John Slattery, Mickey Rourke and Samuel L. Jackson.)

(Insert screams here!)

What makes the Iron Man different, from most other superheroes, is that he’s not other worldly super.

He is awesome, but a more earthly human kind. No radioactive spiders or kryptonite. He is a man, who realized, while creating the weapons that would eventually destroy the world, that he could become that, the greatest weapon of all. ( The good kind.)

The second movie keeps us wondering about him and pepper, all superheroes have those gorgeous heroines who become their greatest weaknesses and help the plot move forward. But here, there’s more.

Scarlett Johansson joins the cast this second time, playing Natalie Rushman, the hot new assistant that Tony hires because she’s GORGEOUS. She also plays The Black Widow. But really, Woody Allen’s pet in an Action movie?

“Black Widow is an expert in hand-to-hand combat, she’s a mixed martial artist, has a dance and gymnastics background, so she combines all of these aspects into one kick-ass fighting machine,” notes Johansson. “So I dedicated myself to putting in the hours, repetitions, and training with the stunt team until I felt comfortable that I could sell each particular move.”

Tony Stark is still the Iron Man But in the second movie we see him as a person who is facing similar but different challenges than he did the first time around.

Keeping Tony in line as well as being the voice of reason and stability at Stark Industries is his trustworthy and indispensable executive assistant Virginia “Pepper” Potts. Never one to turn her back on her eccentric boss in the face of adversity, Pepper is rewarded for years of loyal service to Stark Industries when she is promoted to CEO of Stark Industries. Returning in the role is Academy Award® winner Gwyneth Paltrow.

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For Johansson, seeing the Black Widow costume for the first time was both frightening and highly motivating. “I knew it was going to be some kind of sexy unitard, because I had researched the character in the comics,” she says. “I’ve never worn anything like it before, so I had a freak-out moment that lasted about half a day, but then I said ‘Okay, time to suck it up’ and just went full force into getting in shape to wear the costume and perform the physical action so it looked just right.”

Taking on the role of Lt. Colonel James “Rhodey” Rhodes in “Iron Man 2” is Don Cheadle, who has been a lifelong fan of Marvel Comics.

“Growing up, I loved Marvel Comics and was into the X-Men and Iron Man,” says Cheadle. “I always loved those characters because they were all very fallible people who found their way through whatever particular mission they were trying to deal with at the time. To me, it was really interesting to have characters who were painted that way and were not just black and white.”

But my favorite new character, and who I think is going to revolutionize villains in movies, worldwide is Ivan Vanko (a.k.a) Whiplash. He plays a weapons manufacturer, who is the equivalent of tony stark in all ways.

Tony stark is Iron Man. Owing to his expertise in the weapons field, Ivan Vanko could be Iron Man too. In casting the role, the filmmakers selected Mickey Rourke, who was coming off an Academy Award-nominated performance in “The Wrestler,” and someone who was familiar with Russian culture.

For Rourke, preparing for the role included a trip to Russia. “Well, the character is Russian, so I went to Russia and spent some time there,” Rourke admits. “I spent time in a prison so I could understand how the whole underground system operated. I also studied the art of prison tattoos and we added scenes of Ivan in his cell where you see all the tattoos covering his entire body and you learn that they all have a particular meaning, which gives you real insight into the character.”

And a third character that we are all going to love and hate, Justin Hammer, The man that wants to be Tony, but can’t.

I could write you pages, about the new characters and the director, and the amazing things this movie has to offer. The new all star cast alone is reason enough for you to go watch this movie. But let me assure you of one this, the plot, if not for the all star cast, is sure to blow your mind.

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The kindergarten club is in session

sonali shenoy | sonali@highonscore.com

First Song

DEMI LOVATO

All of 17 years, Demi shot to fame after acting in Disney’s Camp Rock.

With Two albums debuting at #1 and #2 on the Billboard Charts, one wonders if she’s taking the Britney route

MILEY CYRUS

Better recognized as Hannah Montana, Miley at 17 was a wild-card entrant to Forbe’s ‘100 Most Influential People in the World’ list. Stands to see how far the Montana trip takes her, a decade on

You know how teeny boppers are breaking out a dime-a-dozen these days? Consider taking a moment to breathe in the current pop music relay and you will realize, as I did, that they are everywhere… Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, the Jonas Brothers, Selena Gomez. Honestly, I feel small in comparison. At 17, Miley Cyrus has accomplished more than the average actor would before 38. This includes music, a television series, a couple of movies in the bag (one of them being a Nicholas Sparks screenplay, no less) and she claims to have found the man of her dreams!

It takes a lot more than luck to get that lucky.

About a month ago I heard a Justin Bieber song called One Time from his first EP, My World and it got my heart beating just a teeny bit faster. Anybody who can do that sitting on another continent has my vote of approval as an artist, and since then I’ve been following this 16-year-old.

They call it Bieber fever. I don’t know how he does it, but he has much of the female population who have caught so much as a glimpse of him, (moms included) getting butterflies in their stomachs.

The Bieber Story

According to Justin, this is how it began “I started singing about 3 years ago. I entered a local singing competition called the Stratford Idol. The other people in the competition had been taking singing lessons and had vocal coaches. I wasn’t taking it too seriously at the time, I would just sing around the house. I was only 12 and I got second place.”

Post the competition, his mother began posting videos on YouTube so that his family and friends who could not attend his performances could watch him. He sang versions of songs by artists like Usher, Chris Brown, Stevie Wonder, Justin Timberlake, Ne-Yo and more. And that is how he was discovered by Scooter Braun, his manager.

Cutting a long story short, once he got out there, there was a bit of a tussle between Justin Timberlake and Usher, who both wanted to sign him on their respective labels.

Eventually Justin eventually signed on with Usher on his label, Island Records.

That was three years ago. Since then let’s just say that from a kid on YouTube that got people talking, he has evolved tremendously and you will agree with me after you take a look at the videos. His homemade videos are still up on YouTube, featuring a 13-year-old Justin singing in his living room. This also includes his audition with Usher before he got signed with Island Records.

Recently he performed at the Kids Choice awards 2010, sang for President Barack Obama at the White House last Christmas, and as of this month his second album My World 2.0 has debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200.

Justin Speak

Now although most of his songs revolve around love, I do wonder sometimes whether this part is just a farce. How can a 16 year old so focussed on his career, rising at the rate of mercury in a thermometer, have the time of day or inclination to dream about ‘a girl?’

I mean look at the titles of his songs: Baby One Less Lonely girl Favourite girl And with each new video that releases, there’s a different female lead playing his love interest. As one critic joked, “they look old enough to be his baby-sitters. So like I said, he might make the ladies swoon but is he for real when it comes to his lyrics? I am not too sure. I do sincerely hope that ten years from now he doesn’t pull a Ricky Martin on us.

Justin says, “I have crushes, but they’re all too old. Like Beyonce - she has a husband, I might get shot. I went up to give Beyonce a hug at the Grammys and Jay-Z said, ‘Watch out buddy!’ He was kidding, but you know...”

What Lies Beneath

The JONAS BROTHERS

With 4 studio albums selling more than 8 million copies worldwide, looks like the solo bug has caught up with the Brothers.

Reunion time soon, boys?

18

Recently I caught a video online of this 3 year old girl ‘crying’ because she claims to be in love with Justin Bieber. It was sweet, it was funny, and very cute, but here’s what I am getting at. At the end of the day, it’s about what an artist can convey and make you feel sitting at home. That is probably why ‘Your body is a Wonderland’ was such a huge hit for John Mayer.

He’s got soul in his voice, and a certain naiveté on his face, which is what I think, sets him apart. You believe his lyrics when he sings you a song because he wasn’t created by an agency, he brought his heart to the table and showed it to the world on YouTube.

Pix Universal Music

taking cover

leave it to

BIEBER Bieber-mania - One Time his breakthrough single in 2009 charted within the top 30 in over ten countries - His homemade videos are still up on YouTube, featuring a 13-year-old Justin singing in his living room. This also includes his audition with Usher before he got signed with Island Records - The My World tour will kick off this summer on June 23, 2010 - Mr. Beiber, at 16 is the youngest solo male artist to reach #1 on the Billboard 200 since Aug. 24, 1963, when the then-13-year old Stevie Wonder spent one week at No. 1 with “The 12 Year Old Genius.�

- Ironically, he has performed for Stevie Wonder as well.

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Penny WISE shirin albert | shirin@highonscore.com

I

n times of war, famine and disease, the most natural phenomenon we see is people joining together for a good cause, be it out of apathy or just the human will to extend a helping hand. On January 12, 2010 we saw life on the small little island of Haiti come crashing down to a standstill. When I heard the news I automatically rewound to the Gujarat earthquake. My next immediate reaction was wondering how I could have helped?

Flipping through channels a few days later I realized somebody’s already got a game plan and set things in full swing. On January 23, the biggest stars of Hollywood come together to help in their own way. Hope for Haiti Now - a live telethon that was the brainchild of George Clooney(surprisingly) who hosted it with the help of Wyclef Jean(whose Uncle is Haiti’s brand ambassador to the United States). It was almost touching to see the likes of Julia Roberts and Steven Spielberg waiting for a phone call and thanking contributors profusely for their donations big or small.

In a world where every person dreams of making it big, wishing they had their fifteen minutes of fame, it was comforting in a way to show these people were just as normal as we are, just as concerned and just as affected.

My next natural reaction was to go online and donate immediately. I called my friend to ask her for some technical advice but nothing prepared me to hear her reaction.

“They have a million superstars there! Even if ten of them were to get together and pool in a fraction of what they earn, they could fix Haiti in a day. There are people here who need it more then they do. They’ll be fine!” This came off a little exaggerated to me at first but was it far from the truth? It got me thinking. There are people in the world who immediately feel inclined to connect, but when we hear superstars throwing millions on a party in some remote private island or paying 15 grand to get their dog a manicure, you start wondering….. Do they really care?

I’m not venting steam when I say that celebrities are mostly all talk. Most of them are looking at benefits in terms of publicity. For instance, you see Haiti in rubbles and on the other hand we have Robbie Williams reuniting with his band for some benefit show - don’t celebrities realize that once something’s over, it’s over?

Forget re-released singles topping the Billboard charts.

What about celebrities visiting Haiti for a change? I can’t help but ask “Where were they?” Quite similar to our very own Mumbai attacks (26/11) - not one celebrity in sight at the very home of Bollywood. The Red Cross Society brought in a staggering 137 million and the Catholic Society alone brought around 17.4 million. All medical relief and provisions were immediately sent over with live coverage and thousands benefited from them. Quite amusing when compared to the measly 35 million our celebrities raised.

There are many celebrities though who are making a change. It wouldn’t be right on my part to make a general assumption. Will.i.am’s aha moment after his Europe tour made him realize how ignorant people are in many ways. He realized that America was young with so many opportunities. The world to them seemed to be limited and they were quite happy with their luxuries. As he says, “America has to be not just an idea but a living, breathing thing. We have to open the windows and let some air in.”

Doesn’t this apply to generations in all countries all over the world today? Do we really care? Past experiences show that fund raising frenzies inspired by emergency situations tend to do little to improve the lives of ‘people over there’.

And by people, we do not mean the poor and under-privileged but strong individuals who need our support when things take a turn for the worse.

Haiti’ s

hope

do we really care?

what were they thinking, really?

leona lewis

Former X Factor winner Leona Lewis telling the Sun: ‘I want to go over there so badly. But I think the best way to help is by doing things like this [contributing to the Sun’s ‘Helping Haiti’ charity]’.

Rihanna

To see Rihanna trying to strut her stuff during the telethon in her funky leather bubble outfit was quite disturbing. I guess this girl quite hasn’t recovered from her lovers spat with her former Brown beau

travolta

He showed up in the Haitian capital Port-auPrince, in a private jet packed with various provisions and amenities – AND was accompanied by a bunch of Scientology ministers?!

Jen Aniston

A-list couple Brad Pitt and her were spotted chatting backstage at Clooney’s telethon, just when rumours are flying around that he is separating from Angelina Jolie

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sneak Speak preeti krishnakumar | preeti@highonscore.com

ricky RICKY

BANG BANG? Enrique Martin Morales is from a small town in Puerto rico.

Enrique Martin Morales is: 1. Ricky Martin (Check) 2. Hot (Check) 3. Sings like a dream (Check) 4. Gay (Check) Now, How could I have possibly deduced that this man is gay. (Before he announced it on his official website) Let me explain by making it very clear that these are things I deduced on my own. I believe that the new world is prone to stereotyping, I don’t mean to facilitate or encourage this behavior, But I will partake in a little information sharing that might bring you up to speed on why I thought this.

The “Boy Bands” If you’re an 8-15 year old (usually girls, but who’s to say) you love boy bands. Secretly, you do. And it’s okay. Boy bands are often known to be gay.

This probably comes from the fact that four or five boys, traveling the world together- living togetherworking together, involves a lot of togetherness.

LETS TALK RICKY! Ricky’s claim to fame was in fact, a boy band called Menudo, which he left to became a solo artist in 1990.

Broadway and sometimes general Theatre Robert Sean Leonard plays a student who is into theatre and his (on screen) dad doesn’t like it one bit? –Probably Fear of homosexuality/homosexuals.

It flooded the world at some point. Dancers, Musicians, they were all thought to be in an “odd” kind of profession.

LETS TALK RICKY! Ricky Martin played the romantic lead, Marius Pontmercy, in Les Miserables on broadway.

All boys want to be fathers. Fact.

Any Heterosexual man finds a woman, marries her (Or not) and then, becomes a father, eventually.

Ricky Martin, finds a surrogate and has her impregnated artificially, and has the most beautiful twin boys, thus becoming a father.

Also, He had an on and off relationship with the same woman for 14 years before they parted ways.

Dresses impeccably, Performed for the president, and has never thrown a public tantrum.

Barbara Walters believes she almost ruined his career trying to get him to prematurely “come out” in 2000.

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But here’s the reality of it all we always knew.

And it never really mattered. A man’s sexual orientation is his own choice. Ricky, just keep the music coming, because we’re always going to be listening.

Orient Express prachi sibal | prachi@highonscore.com

Five Fingered Assassin: Well not quite, but the speed at which those fingers ran across the frets, i have to say the blurring came without too many drinks ingested

I

kick-bass NINJA

t’s more than a mere tongue twister to attempt to pronounce his name Quagero Imazawa; much like many other East Asian names that somehow make one swallow up words and never let them out. I call him Bass Ninja for ease, but I know there is more to this title than the ease of pronunciation over his real name. He even wears a t-shirt that screams Bass Ninja. He refuses to part with his guitar, strumming even while he speaks, making me look at them as one single entity. “My name ‘Bass Ninja’ just happened.

While I was performing at one of my shows, the crowd in quite a frenzy began screaming Bass Ninja. I decided to keep it”, he tells me.

The next daunting task was of course communication, where many of my questions came back to me distorted. After about a half hour fitting pieces of a puzzle together, I had a brief idea of what he was all about.

Strings of conversation included his story of having played outdoors in temperatures as inhuman as -50 degrees for a short film. “I had no time to be accustomed to the temperature and the wind. If I stopped strumming, my fingers would solidify and then bleed with the guitar strings”, says Quagero Imazawa.

The talk was minimal, and it wasn’t quite hard to tell, he lets his work do the talking. Strumming casually as he spoke, it was hard to imagine the sort of performer he could turn out to be when taking to the stage. In town for a collaborated performance with Carnatic artists, Ninja went on later to perform solo for a more intimate audience at Zara, The Tapas Bar. Despite having to counter an IPL match playing on the other side and a Chennai audience high on cricket, heads began

to turn in no time. What we witnessed for the next few hours was nothing like what we have seen before. From covers to original compositions, Ninja did manage to get the crowd up. Eyes shifted from him to his hands that moved carefully yet swiftly over the strings. The plectrum soon dropped and the vibrations increased in frequency, so much so that his hands were barely visibly. The sound that came out of it was sheer synchronized magic. That is perhaps what makes him the world’s fastest bass guitarist.

Having performed across countries, Ninja collaborates with a range of artists yet holds a special interest in solo shows. “I like to perform solo. There are a lot of artists I would like to collaborate with, including classical Carnatic musicians, which is what, brings me here”, he says. When asked about the one artist he dreams of performing with, Ninja disappeared into thought and returned beaming with “Stevie Wonder” for an answer.

Being his first visit to the country, he talks about the colours, the heat and the chaos the city has introduced him to. More visits to the country, and many more collaborations with classical and folk artists will follow he tells us. The tabla after his own bass guitar fascinates him as an instrument and he confesses to wanting to learn. For now, the guitar rests on his lap, as they gear up to taking more of the world by surprise with their chemistry and pace, together.

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krithika sukumar | krithika@highonscore.com

making music

the dixit way

From colourful lungis to music bursting with that native Indian touch, meet Raghu Dixit, one of the few musicians with a band named after himself who just isn’t self-obsessed!

I

t comes as a pleasant surprise then that Raghu Dixit comes across as no-fuss, easy to catch and seems to be riding his wave of success with his feet firmly on the ground: just one call later, he agrees to meet in Bangalore. When we meet at his studio – a funky space with orange walls, carpets and a large collection of CD’s stacked on one end – he asks about the magazine and chats about the blazing roads outside.

The Raghu Dixit Project has their calendar fast filling up with tours this year, both within the country and abroad. The band and their frontman – Raghu Dixit – have more than 300 concerts to their credit. He agrees it is good going for the band; it has been a conscious effort to get their music to cross borders. International audiences, for their part, seem to love the band’s experimental music.

But the band’s tempo seems to be turning inwards: ‘We want to talk about our journeys and experiences. Not in an autobiographical way, though. Our music is turning more patriotic and brings out love for our land. Actually, at the moment, I am trying to incorporate work by a famous Kannada poet into my compositions,’ says Dixit.

Raghu Dixit is clearly an entertainer: the bright colored silk shirts, lungis and gypsy beads are only for the stage. That’s one reason why his music is far from preachy; the lyrics don’t usually carry a message for the good Samaritan, despite the band lending their support to several causes. Most people who attend a concert do not fail to notice just how charged and fun-filled they are, apart from their quirky sense of dressing. ‘I don’t want to tell audiences to save the world through my music. They come to concerts to get a break from their hectic lives. I would rather let people unwind and have a good time listening to fun music first, and then tell them to save the world; spread the message between songs,’ he says. It’s obvious that, for Raghu, music itself is wholesome enough.

A few years of plowing through a regular 9 to 5 job, after he completed a degree in Microbiology, and Raghu was convinced that his love for making music was substantial enough to translate into a full time job. He began making music with his then-existent band, Antaragni (that later disbanded in 2004). The choice he made was never a leap off a cliff in the dark; it was a wellconsidered one, he says, but it was not always easy.

Apart from composing and performing music, he began creating advertisement jingles, to keep his balance sheets steady. Even today, Raghu Dixit is pleasantly honest and pragmatic about his choices; he has his feet firmly grounded. Ask him how he balances commercial success and prowess on the music charts with making music from the heart, and he motions toward his computer. ‘Here,’ he points to the sleek machine in his, ‘there’s one folder for ‘money’ and one for ‘love’ – all my music goes into one of those two folders. There’s music I make from the heart and projects I take on because I genuinely believe they are unique ideas, and others I take up because I need to,’ he quips.

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After being discovered by the Bollywood biggies, Vishal-Shekhar, when he was performing at Zenzi Bar in Mumbai, Raghu Dixit landed arguably the hugest break of his musical career; composing for the hit film, Psycho. ‘I didn’t find Psycho, Psycho found me. It just happened; I was approached to compose music for this film, and I found it interesting,’ he explains. And so started his career at Sandalwood the same year his debut album was launched. Work on the film Superman has been stalled, and he isn’t working on any film music at the moment, he says.

To Raghu, music has always been a large and inseperable part of everyday life. ‘I grew up in a typical Iyengar house, so there was always classical music around. I never trained in classical music though. Learning the guitar just happened accidentally,’ says the self-taught guitarist, who took to strumming the guitar after a classmate goaded him. Raghu Dixit is also a vidwat in Bharatnatyam. ‘I learnt in Mysore. But that was years back; now my figure permits me to be more of a bellydancer,’ he jokes.

Whatever musical influences his growing years might have impressed upon him, Raghu says that he is now careful to avoid bringing in influences of music he has been hearing. ‘I avoid listening too much to the music of other artists, as it then might influence my compositions too,’ he explains. While we’re on the subject, I broach the subject of whether his brother, Vasu Dixit of Swarathma, share any common influences from their younger days. ‘Their music has been confused with mine a few times.

It’s time they find a sound that is heir own,’ he says.

brother Love ‘I grew up in a typical Iyengar house, so there was always classical music around. I never trained in classical music though.

Learning the guitar just happened accidentally.’

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Master of Multi-Tasking : Ever tried producing, acting and scoring music at the same time?

This man certainly has. Wonder what’s next.

Direction perhaps?

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wonder wall

NAAN VIJAY ANTONY

gayatri kalyanaraman | gayatri@highonscore.com

M

r Vijay Antony is a busy man these days. After all, he is the hero, music director and part producer for his upcoming venture Naan. Fixing an interview with the man was considerably hard and after spending about Rs 100 of my balance explaining to his assistant about the magazine and the nature of the interview; finally a telephone interview was fixed.

For a man who is accomplished and well placed in the industry, there was something refreshingly simple about him. As soon as he called he immediately enquired about my comfort to the time of the call and if it was ok for me to talk a little late into the night. After a slightly formal exchange of pleasantries I started out with my questions for him.

To Mr Antony, his success lies in the fact that from being a nondescript individual he made it to where he is only by means of talent and pure determination. And it is this journey that has convinced him to take up acting as well. He spent a long 8-9 years after college learning, studying and practising music to be good a music director someday. This was exceptionally tough considering he did not have a solid financial backing of any sort from his family nor did he have strings he could pull within the industry. “Luck favours the brave,” he retorts with a smile.

So is everybody around him happy about the actor avatar? Apparently not! The major part of his family is worried about this transition for professional and non professional reasons.

Their main concern seems to revolve around the fact that once he turns into an actor people will unknowingly discount his availability and talent as a music director. But his better half seems to think the contrary and it is her trust that has inspired him to make this move. Kudos to her!

Personally he feels music is a part of him and his passion and value as a music direction will never diminish as long he keeps making music that people like.

Actors become directors, producers become actors and many such permutations happen all the time. I have always been curious as to why music directors stay within the confines of film music with only the rare exception of people like ARR who come out with a music album once in a while? He broke a few clichés when he said, “I am all for exploring different genres and outlets for music, but I feel that it won’t reach the people.” Even if the music is good, owing to a lack of marketing and a proper channel to transport it to the people, the music gets lost in the transition. According to him film music is the ONLY way to draw a large audience and that’s the trend in the South. Unless we have people with a lot of money who are willing to change this and experiment with new forms of taking music to people, this trend will continue to exist.

Apart from being the lead actor, he is also donning the producers hat for his next venture.

How’s the multi-tasking suiting him? Pretty easy after his struggle earlier in life. After having experienced overwhelming pressure at such a young age, anything else can be managed, he feels. He is also intent on giving something back to the industry that has been so kind to him.

Both as offbeat inputs as well as introducing fresh talent. Under his musical banner, he has so far introduced close to 30 new singers and 8 lyricists.

My interview with him lasted for not more than an hour. In this time I came across a lot of personal qualities and also a set of ethics that this man has set for himself and follows rigidly. He has a natural flair for charm and humour and most importantly respect for his seniors and coworkers in the industry. What his career graph has in store for him and how he handles fame from here on is yet to be seen.

Here’s hoping for more magic - from Naka Muka to Naan!

all about antony

Naan is the first time a person is acting, producing and composing music for the film.

Naan is a joint production between Vijay Antony Film Corporation and AVR Talkies Pvt ltd.

Naan is a thriller and promises to have unexpected twists and turns and NO larger-than-life hero

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ketaki chandrasekar | ketaki@highonscore.com

Etymologies N’ Apologies

C

oughing up a name for your band? Then this one’s for you.

Let’s cut to the chase.

The first thing you have to remember is that if you want someone to take you seriously, you better have an innovative and engaging name. There’s no point in coming up with random words that mean nothing just because one of you said something stupidly funny while smoking spliff.

What is funny then, is probably funny only then. The fact is there is a chance you will be remembered if you’re any good and at that point you don’t want a stupid name following you around.

Some of the greatest bands have stories attached to their names or they spent some time to coin good crep; The Doors, Guns and Roses, Radiohead, Coldplay (although this one was borrowed), Audioslave, etc. These are names that stick. And no matter what the background story, the outcome was clever.

Those are all Rock Bands, so how do our ‘friends’ in Pop fair? Not too badly. Jackson 5ive, The Beatles… okay that’s all I’ve got. The rest are The Spice Girls, Boyzone, Backstreet Boys (yeah, they were really street! Such gangstas), Sugababes, Pussycat Dolls (I’m wiping tears here), Bee Gees…!! Now The Spice Girls went one step ahead and came up with nicknames for themselves like Ginger, Baby, Posh, Sporty and the big haired one whose name I can’t remember.

Now what you have to ask yourself is, ‘Am I the big haired one or do I really want to be remembered?’

After all this, what ultimately matters is whether or not you are a good musician. Coming up with a fabulous name and sounding like a trucker’s broken radio won’t do anyone any good. It might maximum cause a little global warming.

So put your thinking caps on, jog your creative instincts for a while and wow the world with your band and its music.

And I mean that in a good way.

OH, SCARY!! Scary Spice! Yeah, that took a while.

I Now Dub Thee : Thought naming a band was the easiest thing in the world? You’ve got to be

deluded! Dig in for some tips and pointers

Here’s a simple list of things you can keep in mind while naming your band

• • • •

Some really bad International band names

•

- Arctic Monkeys - Blink-182

•

- Chumbawamba - Garbage - Wet wet wet

• • Ridiculous Indian band names

•

- Phoeni (Calcutta) - History Makers (Hyderabad)

•

- Evergreen (Hyderabad) - Black (Mumbai)

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Pic Pankti Shah/Jenni Shah

The ‘The’ concept is very old now – The Who, The Band, The Byrds, The Killers, The Vines, The Shins… it never ends. So avoid it.

If you’re a rockband do not try to be cute. For eg, The Puppies is not the way to go. Yes I made it up.

In an attempt to be memorable do not try to overdo it because a) people will in fact laugh and b) they won’t remember you as anything else. For eg, Smashing Pumpkins.

If your band looks like it has no focus (today rock, tomorrow pop, day after commercial radio friendly nonsense) then don’t pick a name that marks a certain style. ‘Rockers and Poppers’ is not a valid choice although it does reflect that very state of confusion, because it even confuses the listener. Are they talking about drugs or music?

Reflecting on history and elements that lead to the genesis of the band is the easiest way out. Motherjane’s story is that a fan had given it to them back in 1996. It was a variant of ‘mary jane’ to symbolize the band’s belief that music is the greatest drug!

Keep it short. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club sounds so goofy, no one even says it out loud… including fans!! BRMC is all that is said. Their music is amazing but BRMC sounds better than the wannabe goth extension of the abbreviation. The Cooper Temple Clause – yes such a band exists! They had this one track called ‘Murder Song’ that was addictive for a while. I can’t remember them otherwise.

Don’t use punctuations for the feck of it. W.A.S.P, F.R.I.E.N.D.S (ok TV shows don’t count but I really needed to get that one off my chest for a while), Panic! at the Disco etc.

Misspelling is cool if you can pull it off. Led Zeppelin is cool. Def Leppard is not (yes I like their songs too but c’mon!! Leppard? Really?). What is Puddle of Mudd’s excuse?

Indian Ocean, Moksha and more recently Avial are ethnic names with good taste. If you’re proud to be an Indian musician with western influences, then let it show!

Don’t be a want-to-be – it is worse than a wannabe. Being yourself and not simply what you perceive yourself to be is vital in deciding a name for your band. The Awesome Threesome [for a three part band…duh) won’t sell any records.

Band Aid meenakshi iyer | meenakshi@highonscore.com

the college band blues

Rusty Moe Having been a part of the rock music scene in the city since 1997, the common factor for the members of this band is their love for classic rock. They enjoy bringing the classic era to the audience through their performances. Their influences include bands like Whitesnake, Deep Purple, Rainbow, Iron Maiden, Scorpions, Black Sabbath and Pink Floyd.

Subject to change

The band came together at an acoustic festival in Chennai, almost 2 years back, when Benny heard Anjana and Anisha sing. The band is best known for its medleys (if you still haven’t heard Deadly Medley and Medley and Chutney, kindly stop reading further) they consider themselves a group of friends who love what they do, and don’t really place them in competition with the others

So you were the dude who strummed the guitar and had girls going crazy. You played at least once a month to stay fresh on the scene.

You were part of various bands, and wrote songs which elicited either ‘exceptional for an amateur’ or ‘what profoundness…I bet you were drunk!’ Weird hairstyle, Tees that read ‘Hendrix is Alive’, amplifiers, strings, microphones, jam sessions, booze (yeah). Whatever happened when you graduated?

Most bands have members from the same college (different institutions perhaps, but we’re talking about the former, here) who have a passion for music and want to be a part of a band; or have known each other since school. All said and done, a successful college band earns considerable popularity, thanks to platforms like The Unwind Centre and the print media (Us for instance!), which help them reach their audience. Bonus points, if you are the goodlooking types.

That clearly leaves us with a thought about what happens to these bands after they walk out of college. Satish Narayanan, bassist for the band Skrat, opines that ‘Most people aren’t entirely sure about their future in music here in Chennai. But you can’t blame them for not being confident with their music.’

The picture remains the same for girl bands. The ones that remain in the limelight almost disappear once they graduate. Otherwise they take up solo singing or join boy bands (or judge college competitions! Popularity put to use, you see.)

Also, there isn’t an organized record industry in many parts of the country. There also arises a problem of lack of financial help and sponsorship to go ahead. Where is the money? Unless your dad is willing to shed some of his. Under the pretext of exposure, many bands perform at various avenues, often without much financial gain. Music is an expensive business, honey.

Could it be the lack of desire to take it to a professional level? Something higher than just performing at college competitions and earning moolah (that could probably suffice for a couple of trips to a city pub). Or is it the lack of confidence on taking up music as a career, which leads to switching on to more lucrative and reliable ones (the ones they mentioned in class, which you missed anyway, courtesy your band.) Does the zeal of singing and playing for a band fade out and finally cease to exist, once you’re done impressing people?

You could actually take it further and make it big, you know. We come across bands that’ve just done that. Anjana from Subject To Change points out that one of the main reasons their band has remained active, is because they don’t really compete with other bands. They love their music. The same applies for Rusty Moe and Thermal and a Quarter. In the latter’s case, they’ve been active for over 12 years now and have won accolades like the WorldSpace Award for ‘Outstanding Contribution to Indian Rock’ in 2007.

The purpose here is not just to state the obvious fact that it can be done (and has been done before), but also to make you wonder if you can stand out amidst the crowd (which is growing fatter everyday.)

I’ll leave it to you to decide. (orders for a cup of tea.)

TAAQ

Active for almost 13 years now, TAAQ has had two to nine members and derives its influences from Jazz, Indian Classical, Folk, Rock. Having released four albums so far, TAAQ is the only rock band from India to be featured on National Public Radio’s All Things Considered. They have supported Jethro Tull and Deep Purple on tour and are based from Bangalore

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ashwath nair | ashwath@highonscore.com

Your Band will break up

Y

Pic EMI Music

ou wake up at the crack of noon and notice that you’ve gained 18 kilos after the previous night’s beer binge. You take your oversized guitar and walk down to your drummer’s jam room. As you head towards those pearly gates of overdriven/distorted guitar heaven, you realise that you don’t hear those familiar sounds anymore. Instead, you hear hushed voices.

You now open the door, and see a group of serious faces looking straight at you. You don’t feel comfortable and then it happens.

‘It’s over man!’

You want to think that he’s talking about something tangentially different, BUT he hasn’t FINISHED the dreaded sentence.

‘The Band I mean’. You stand there with your mouth ridiculously wide open and STILL can’t believe what he just said. Face it. The band is officially broken up. To imagine, years of bondage, I mean, bondING (that’s right), lay waste just because of those three words.

Okay let’s break it down, you and me. Why would a band as kickass as yours want to break up?

Here are the Top 3 reasons why bands break up but before that I’d like to recommend a song, for each reason listed. How’s that sound? Here goes:

1

Out of Love / Le Divergence Artistique : Imagine this; you and said D-sized guitar come back to your senses after the most amazing 20-minute solo ever played only to be welcomed by screaming, poser, poploving tweens.

YOU PLAY FOR [A] The Jonas Brothers [B] Hannah Montana [C] Touring with BOTH of them. Weird isn’t it? I think not. Because you see, bands suddenly lose out on the love all of you once seemed to share and cherish, from the bottom of your hearts. See now THIS is where you should’ve taken into account, the varied tastes of each member in your band.

Song for Sub-heading: The Return – Killswitch Engage Famous Band: The most famous one. The Beatles. Or a little closer to home, Guns n’ Roses

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2

Promotion : Another imaginary trip’s in order.

Big Stage, Funky Lights, Volume all the way up to 11. In other words, OAT in IIT. You win the tournament. Two weeks of comments on facebook lauding the band’s efforts. You are then approached by a man in white. Okay, caveman language now. Shiny man give big money promise ϋber gig. He get gig for people and give big name. Gives ONLY name. No money. Sound familiar? The MAN ‘forgets’ to pay the band but promotes them. He gets you guys a huge gig which turns out to be organised for a charity. You love the world a lot but you can’t love the world without financial support. Promotion = Money + Fame. PERIOD! Song for Sub-heading: 1st Person – Stone Sour Famous Band: Alice in Chains

3

The Chosen One : Every once in a while, a talent comes along who is so amazingly good that any band would be blessed to have them. In fact, it is often this same talent that causes the band to break up. Got the point I hope. Yes? Good. SO… Now what you should take into account is whether your band’s a Steve Vai Band or an Alice in Chains. Easier said than done. Because each one of your members might want the band to indeed turn out to be a Steve Vai band for THEM, regardless of whether they really ARE a talented lot.

Song for Sub-Heading: Feeling Way Too Damn Good – Nickelback Famous Band: Velvet Revolver

Band Aid Ketaki chandrasekar | ketaki@highonscore.com

Formed in 1984 - American boy band consisting of Jordan and Jonathan Knight, Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg, and Danny Wood - The kids disappeared from the block in 1994 Reunion in 2007 (who knew!)

No one knew because they secretly reunited in 2007 and cut an album called ‘The Block’.Their 2008 tour was called New Kids On The Block : Live and their 2009 tour was called ‘Full Service Tour’. They’ve confirmed a tour for 2010 as well! All the facts are great, but it makes you wonder though, aren’t they old and men now?

In any case, how much are these guys worth now? Possibly a sugar-pop 30 year old’s nostalgia!

THE ROLLING STONES

- Formed in 1962 - English rock band consisting of vocalist Mick Jagger, guitarist Keith Richards, guitarist and harmonica player Brian Jones, pianist Ian Stewart, Bassist Bill Wyman and drummer Charlie Watts.

- They’ve released 25 studio albums, 10 live albums and 92 singles, with album sales estimated at more than 200 million worldwide - THEY NEVER BROKE UP!!

This is one band that defied all odds and stuck together despite so many rumours over the years. Although there were changes in the line up between the ‘60s and the ‘70s, they remained together through the ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s.Now there’s a lesson to be learnt here. They made great music, took time-off as they got older but kept coming back with more music every so often. The Keith-Mick chemistry never died! Even in their 60s this rock band has what it takes to walk away with the prize! Great music = great many fans = top 10 richest celebrities in UK!

· Formed in 1977 · British Rock trio consisting of Sting (lead vocals, bass guitar), Andy Summers (guitar, vocals) and Stewart Copeland (drums, vocals, percussion). · They split up in 1984 with each member wanting to pursue a solo career. After a brief reunion in 1986, The Police parted ways. · Reunion in 2007 To mark their 30th anniversary, The Police reunited with tour dates that ran from May 2007 to August 2008. It became the fourth highest grossing tour of all time, with revenues over $340 million. Fans believed that the band has still got its groove. But alas, Sting was quoted to have said, “There will be no new album, no big new tour, once we’re done with our reunion tour, that’s it for the Police”.

EAGLES

- Formed in 1971 - American Rock band consisting of Glenn Frey, Timothy B. Schmit, Don Henley and Joe Walsh - Hotel California album is ranked 37th in Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time and the title track is one of the most popular songs in rock history.

- They broke up in 1980 The Eagles reunited in 1994 and released a really good album titled Hell Freezes Over; a compilation album of previous live performances and a few new songs. They then toured intermittently and released their 7th studio album [the first since 1979!] in 2007 called Long Road Out of Eden. They’ve been touring ever since and are expected to continue in 2010 as well. Did you hear that cash register clink?

Don Henley is individually worth about $80 million.

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

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ostalgia can be worth a lot these days. It is common knowledge that when a band is formed, they are going to break up one day over creative or personal differences. And if they’ve had a good run, they will leave fans wanting for more.

What most people expect though are tribute shows to the days of yore. For example, I would love to catch a live performance of Led Zeppelin (bringing Bonzo back to life of course). Reuniting bands don’t bank only on being tribute acts to themselves; they cut a new album and go on tour.

So what makes bands resolve their differences and reunite? a) Music b) Fans c) Money In recent years, some bands really got going in the right direction.

They discovered they’ve got some chemistry left to make a comeback.

Here’s a list of 5 bands which I’ve picked out as some of the most interesting [and recent] reunion stories!

So whatever be the reason for these bands to break up and make up, there’s a lot of good music to be made. There are exceptions of course [anybody heard Guns & Roses’ Chinese Democracy?] but for the most part, if a good old band reunites there’s something in it for everyone.

THE POLICE

Till Death do us part

Pix: Universal Music

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www.highonscore.com

Does peace stand a chance?

Ripped torn and shreeded are words more likely to be associated with Inner Sanctum than peace and war stoppage. It remains to be seen if Grindcore outfits can effectively make a statement for war-stoppage through aggressive music

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hen I first heard of Serenity, Miss Universe was what came to my mind. “A music compilation featuring 12 of the hottest bands from India and Pakistan in an attempt to promote cordial relationships between our countries and to bring an end to the violence”? Sounded like another size zero in a two piece swimsuit promoting World Peace (with a capital W and P). And when you have names like Demonic Resurrection, Heretic, Communal Grave and MobrulZ world peace is hardly the first thing on your mind.

But what sets Serenity apart is not this cause that everybody seems to be singing about these days. Firstly, Serenity does have some really hot bands. Ask any music fan with half a brain. And Secondly, Madhav Ravindranath of Roadcrew Records who originally came up with this idea, really knows what he is doing.“What I wanted was just to promote good relations between our countries. I haven’t achieved that and I don’t think I will. This is too big an issue to be handled by a music compilation such as this, and this needs to be addressed at the higher levels of society, both Indian and Pakistani. However, if this can change the mindset of even one person, I would say job well done.”

And as Kamran Ata of Ironline Production, Pakistan puts it, “Through Serenity we also want to open avenues for our bands and Indian bands to release in Pakistan and India”. Now that is a cause that might do some good, especially in the music world.

So is Serenity just another addition to the ever increasing peace brigade? What does it have to offer beyond the notion of Peace between the two countries? Well some really great songs for one thing.

And some true stories if you believed the reviews.

For instance, Manoj Jacob’s song Whose Line Is It Anyway is a tribute to a friend, Captain Sylvester

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Rajesh Rathnam of the 21 Jat Regiment who died in Kashmir. “The choice of the song title comes from the battle over the Line of Control that’s been going on for years without getting anywhere.

Whose Line Is It Anyway questions the purpose of this fight. Soldiers and civilians die on both sides of the line, and yet this dispute is not any closer to being settled.”

These were reasons enough for me to dutifully download the entire compilation (And it wasn’t piracy, mind you. They have been put up for free download online. The CD version is available only for promotion). Being the metal fan that I am, I was very cynical about the idea of metal for peace. But one listening was all that took for me to realize that all the BS apart, it has some really killer music.

I asked Kamran for his favourite, and he said, “I love the song A Tragedy Befallen. Its pure adrenaline”. That he would select an Indian song from the list as if it were the most natural thing did raise a shadow of doubt in my mind that perhaps music (and mostly metal at that) for peace was not downright silly as I initially thought it was.

But peace or not, Serenity is making noise the world over. “This has been gaining popularity not just in India and Pakistan but also in Jordan, Egypt, Canada and other countries,” says Madhav,”which is good, because both the message and the music are reaching places, and people will find out that the people of India and Pakistan are at least trying and making an attempt to get along with each other, which will make a difference in the long run”.

Whatever be the case, the music is great, the stories are moving and Serenity definitely makes you ask for more.

And as for World Peace (or the smaller, two-country version of it), well, best of luck to that!

Metal Miles madhumitha madhavan | madhu@highonscore.com

When METAL and PEACE are said in the same sentence, chances are people SISTER ACHED! The I-wanna-be-just-likemy-sister-dearest might think you’re playing with Antonyms. These bands from across the syndrome seems to be catching on, especially border disagree and are stirring up a distorted storm to prove it after the Simpson Family stepped up

PEACE BY PieCE TRACK LIST

01. Half An Eye – A Different Day 02. Communal Grave – Blinded By Deceit 03. Imran Siddique – Afra Tafri 04. Half An Eye – Wasting My Time 05. MobrulZ – Demolition 06. Anesthezia – Turning Around 07. Heretic – Reprise 08. Rat King – The Wake 09. Demonic Resurrection – A Tragedy Befallen 10. Zygnema – 59 11. Inner Sanctum – Quarantine 12. Manoj Jacob – Whose Line Is It Anyway

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http://www.highonscore.com It was a interesting telephonic conversation (well two- part conversation ) with Tanvi Shah, mostly I think because she is easy to get along with. I asked her what her first thought was after she heard her name announced at the Grammies, and it was please don’t pinch me. “I never expected it to get this far. Music was never a part of my plan.”

Her mantra: “Have no expectations. You get lost along the way if you do.” points that way, anyway In 2004, her demo was picked up by A.R Rahman to sing ‘Fanaa’ for ‘Yuva.’

Also with the success of Slumdog Millionaire, Tanvi also got to be a part of Snoop Dogg’s song ‘Snoop Dogg Millionaire’ that released in English and Hindi last year.

Now although her music is what has brought her into the spotlight, it is barely scratching the surface with this artist.

She’s beautiful, versatile, creative, has a jewellery line of her own. Did I mention she won a Grammy?

It’s time you met the lady behind the voice. She is all of 19 years old and can take you on quite a drive. Here we go!

I drive a Tata Safari and I like big sports cars, not the luxury models.

Home for me will always be Chennai, where else will I get my rasam satham?

Love to me feeling happy and buzzed without a drink.

Music was never a part of my plan.

I started formal training only after Yuva.

My professors in college would joke that I had a bumble bee stuck to my rear end, I could never sit still.

I can parallel park….woohooo!

A mosquito once flew into my mouth while recording, and I swallowed it.

Working on Snoop Dogg Millionaire was exciting, I got three bouncers to take care of me.

I have no idea who sent that copy of my recording to Rahman sir’s office.

Picture: Stalin, Stylist: Vira Shah

Those 10 things sonali shenoy | sonali@highonscore.com

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crooning glory meenakshi iyer | meenakshi@highonscore.com

Remember the voice that enthralled us with Sajnaa aa bhi jaa in the movie Waisa Bhi Hota Hai Part 2? Little did I know that it was the same lass who sang the signature tune of All India Radio and Amul India! Quite a feat, eh? A sufi-western singer (somehow, I guessed that), Shibani Kashyap became a popular name in the Indian pop music scene after her debut album Ho Gayi Hai Mohabbat (1998). A literature graduate who has composed and sung for several films and been a part of a reality show, Bathroom Singer, Shibani answered some of my quirkiest queries with a glint of surprise in her voice (I bet she stopped herself form blurting out, ‘Woman! What are you upto?!!’)

quirks and Queries The one thing we never knew about Shibani is?

Something you’ll never know! (laughs) An adventure sport you’ve always wanted to try out?

Skiing! In fact, I’m going soon!

Which musical instrument do you think brings out human emotions the best?

The guitar. It could be because I play it. I relate to it the best. It brings out my every emotion, in the most beautiful way.

The most memorable moment of your life so far?

Every moment I spend with Aahana, my niece. She makes me smile and look at life from her point of view. Simple and happy.

If you were offered a role in a Hollywood movie, who would you like to be paired with?

Brad Pitt…any day! Hope Ms Jolie does not mind. But man, is he hot!!

A band you’ve always wanted to be part of ?

My own! Its called Sojourn. I’m sure we are a sensation ourselves!

Shibani will never step out her abode without?

My BIG bag.. I carry all that I need, in it. Phone, I-pod..Its like my little home!

A music icon who fits the term ‘Diva’ is?

Norah Jones. She’s class personified. (I respond in agreement) A perfume brand which has always been your favourite?

Christian Dior. Though I like to experiment with Lancome and Jean paul Gaultier, too.

Your greatest idol in music?

Sting! (says before I finish with my question) Who do you owe your success to? (pauses, I believe she realizes I could ask some sensible questions too) My mom. I know I sound clichéd, but it is her encouragement and support that has brought me where I’m today.

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http://www.highonscore.com

ST A R L IGHT

Abishek Bachan has been relatively quiet these last few years, with just 2 movies so far from the start of 2009, certainly less than his yearly average of four. Some people blame the recession and others extol Abishek’s virtues for selecting “character” based movies. Whatever the reason be for this lean phase, the entire country just cannot resist paying attention to Abishek’s come-back with Raavan. It’s been three years since Guru, and six since Yuva. We are all waiting with baited breath.

Last we heard, Aishwarya Rai has been re-imported to the south and that Mani Ratnam was responsible for de-glamorizing her in the process. Aishwarya Rai has really been working hard on this film, and was spotted with no-makeup and real bruises. We can go on and on about Aishwarya, but you could find all that in many other tabloids as well.

Vikram has reached dizzying heights of success in his last few movies and has been touted as the next south Indian super star(along with a dozen other actors), and this is probably the biggest walk away he has had so far. In Raavan, Vikram has a unique distinction of playing the protagonist in the Hindi version and antagonist in the Tamil version. He definitely must be extremely elated with his first break in the north Indian woods. Vikram has gone on record saying he has always wanted to do a movie with Mani Ratnam, but now he gets to do three, and simultaneously at that!

(If you count the Telugu version too).

THE ANTAGONIST’S CUT

None of us can help but stand up and notice when AR Rahman and Mani Ratnam team up, they have done it before and they’ve done it all over again.

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AJAY Prabhakar | ajay@highonscore.com

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ani Ratnam, is often credited with bringing out the best in Rahman, and the duo have brought out epics like Roja, Bombay and Guru.

It wasn’t surprising though, that when Mani Ratnam decided to make a movie based on an epic, he chose Rahman almost as if by instinct!

With the Tamil music release just a day away, and in our frenzy to get the magazine out(on time!), we wanted to pen down our thoughts about what we are looking forward to in Raavan.

Abishek Bachan and Vikram play the protagonist or antagonist depending on which version you happen to see(but nobody is absolutely sure!).

Both have scintillated in the 30 second trailer and Mani Ratnam definitely seems to have successfully created an identical and mysterious feel and look for both the renditions of the film.

“

T E N H EA D S TEN MINDS A H U N D R E D VOICES O NE M A N -MANI RATNAM ON RAAVAN

We hear of how the film is loosely adapted on the character Ravana from the epic Ramayana. But one can’t help wondering how.

There is a definite shroud on what the film is all about, and though the audience is looking forward to the film, there is a lingering question on everybody’s mind on what to expect (though we know they are expecting quite a bit!)

Coming back to the dynamic duo and the scourge of bad Cinema, Rahman and Mani went ahead to develop the screen play and compositions in 2007 for a different project called Lajjo, but the project was shelved for various reasons. We know now that the duo didn’t give up their fight because the original tracks meant for the Lajjo project has gotten a new lease of life in Raavan/Raavana.

All of us will continue to hope that this dynamic duo will make many more chapters in the history of Indian Cinema.

A RR ’ s t a k e Beera Beera is a song that describes the lead character played by Abhishek Bachchan. When we set out to compose this song, we didn’t want to make the song or the character seem dark.

We wanted ‘Beera’ to be liked by everyone.

Behne De Karthik sang this song as a scratch.

At that point in time, we didn’t know if we were going to retain it but everyone seemed to like the version and we did retain it ‘Ranjha Ranjha’ is poetry of Baba Bulleshah.

Thok De Khilli of course has Sukhwinder at his energetic best. He is simply a powerhouse of energy and talent.

Kata Kata is a very typical Mani Ratnam style song. In every film of his you have this folk celebration kind of song.

Khilli Re has been sung by Reena Bhardwaj who earlier sang ‘Yeh Rishta’ from Meenaxi.

Excerpts from an interview with Nikhil Ramasubramaniam on May 5th on the website http://www.bollywoodhungama.com

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http://www.highonscore.com

advertorial feature

i t ’s f u n

all the way!

I

t’s all about pure entertainment. Chennai Live 104.8FM is always evolving itself to give you music and fun perfectly packaged.

This April, Chennai Live 104.8fm gives you a brand new schedule and revamped show formats to revitalise the airwaves. Catch up with the city’s Trend-Setters on The Good Life Show, catch Reality Bytes on Live Talk, Discover Chennai on Chennai Connection, get behind the kitchen counter with the chefs of famous restaurants, take your turn at gaming zones in the city, find out where two people can eat for just Rs.150/- on Live Cafe. There’s also time for romance on Couple-Time and cat-fights on Roadhouse. It’s all new.

It’s all fun. It’s all on Chennai’s only English radio station.

Chennai Live 104.8fm - Artist of the Month This month Chennai Live 104.8fm will feature Lil Wayne.

This controversial, Grammy Award winning rapper is out with his latest album “Rebirth” that stands for change, transformation and a new beginning both as him as an artist as well as a human being.

He’s known for his twisted lyrics that hit hard – one of the reasons for his unimpeachable street cred.

His latest incarceration for illegal possession of weapons hasn’t deterred him in the least. His message to his fans is loud and clear - he isn’t going to let anything hold him back.

Chennai Calling Chennai Live 104.8fm’s latest offering hit the airwaves on the 12th of April along with a lot of hullabaloo!

This show is hosted by the deadly duo – Arjun Thomas a.k.a The Sexy T and Geoffrey Thomas a.k.a The Big G. Between the two of them they bring you the best of radio. Geoffrey with his decade-long experience in the medium and Arjun with his musician’s genius makes for a great show. Their hilarious wit and mischief puts a new spin on the interviews with Chennai’s famous faces. The cheerful pranks on unsuspecting listeners keeps you tuned in. The sugar on the lollypop is the special hot seat segment that’s open to anybody who’s waiting for a chance to blow the whistle on The Big G’s and the Sexy T’s deepest, darkest secrets.

It’s spicy. It’s hot. It’s hilarious. It’s interesting. Its 3 hours of great entertainment. Tune into Chennai Live 104.8fm from 9p.m. to 12 p.m., Monday to Thursday and get your dose of music and madness on Chennai Calling.

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Cash Happy KARAOKE It just went beyond singing off-key with a bunch of beer-swillers joining in the chorus. With big bucks on the line the Karaoke Competition is getting HOTTER (heatedly competed, we mean!)

Short Wave

The Karaoke Finals The last and final round of Chennai Live 104.8 fm’s Karaoke competition was a rocking success. After 6 months of exciting competition, 10 of the city’s best voices handpicked by our judges sang for all they were worth to take home cash prizes worth rupees 1 lakh. The king of the evening was Mark Thomas with his easy rendition of Floyd’s Comfortably Numb and on a completely different note Panthera’s Cemetery Gates. Following closely behind was Roshan Thomas taking home a sweet 25K and settling at third was Sangeetha carrying away 10 big ones. Mridula Shekar and Nadisha Thomas won themselves a special mention and 5K each.

It was a great evening for everyone concerned and Chennai Live will be back with a new round of Media nights that will keep you all enthralled!

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Trippy Tales swati nair | swati@highonscore.com

paro…OH PARO(DY)…

Look who’s being funny.

Youtube 1. Alanis Morissette – My Humps 2. Children of Bodom – Oops! I did it again. (Yes you read that right) 3. Tenacious D – Chop Suey (That indeed is the System of a Down cover)

I

would like to take some time to thank those artists of the music industry who have dedicated their lives to making utterly horrendous music, ever so consistently. Artists who can’t hold their tunes in a bucket (coughcough*jamesblunt*coughcough ), singers who love bad grammar with a fiery passion (Timbaland nudge, nudge) and kids who want to make it so early to the scene that they start early. Really, really early. Without all of them, the evolution of an amazing genre in itself wouldn’t be possible.

Parody.

If you belong to the 99% of the internet junkie population you have probably heard of names like Weird al Yankovic, James at War, Venetian Princess and Alpha Cat. Thanks to these people, scientists have found a non-chemical alternative to laughing gas. Every time I hear an unfathomably atrocious song a little part in my heart jumps with glee. Because that one bad song makes way for several GREAT parodies!

You may think that making such pieces of music is a pastime for juvenile entertainment.

If you just nodded in approval, you need to rethink. Making a parody requires the unique talent of making people laugh. Taking a song, rewriting its lyrics and making it funny to the

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millions of viewers, is by no means an easy thing to do. Matter of fact, it takes even more effort than composing a serious piece of music.

Don’t think so? Try your hand at it! Parodies are the opposite equals of poetry. The former tickles peoples’ ribs and the latter makes them cry. I know, touché.

At its inception, parodies generated a plethora of hate mails. Not intelligent hate mails with valid points, but the “omg-you’re-horrible!!!” kind of trash. However, this didn’t last long as people started to take humour lightly. Then on, everyone started to appreciate parodies and a lot of people got into making parody videos. The aforementioned “people” include Alanis Morissette, Children of Bodom and Tenacious D. That’s right; the biggies seem to have taken a liking to this genre too! And why not? It’s a great way to show off your not-somainstream talents.

So what do the artists who have made the original songs have to say to this? Oh, nothing major! While some artists make noise about the whole thing, others break no bones about it.

There have been instances where the artists have left comments on parody videos, appreciating the efforts. If taken in the right spirits, parodies can be great.

To sum up, here are three reasons why you should listen to parodies: 1.You can laugh without getting yourself tickled.

2.Next time someone asks you if you’ve heard X song, you can ask them if they’ve heard X song’s parody. You win.

3. Because it is there.

Here are some recommendations that will give you a good heads up. You’re welcome.

Weird Al Yankovic

Everything about him is funny. Even his face.

He’s been nominated for the Grammys. Thrice. www.weirdal.com http://www.myspace.com/weirdal

James at War

Step one: Do a search using those keywords.

Step two: Click on any link from the results that follow. Step Three: Enjoy.

Venetian Princess

Follow the above steps using the keywords mentioned in this bullet point.

Nalini Suresh

chikmagalur

gateway to CLOUD 9

L

ocated in the foothills of the Baba Budangiri Range, the town Chikmagalur is known for its coffee estates.

About 3400 feet above sea level, Chikmagalur literally translates into “The town of the younger daughter” in native Kannada language. It is a calm, serene town full of scenic surprises; hills, valleys, streams and rolling plains.

“Coffee County” a home-stay set amidst the coffee estate is a neatly whitewashed bungalow with a breathtaking view of the Mullayanagiri peak (the highest peak in Karnataka) and is owned by Reshma & Masood Shariff.

We were welcomed into the spacious living room by a smiling Reshma, our hostess who took care of our comforts for the rest of our stay. The three bedrooms with attached bathrooms were clean and tidy with all the modern amenities. The food, home cooked (with a few special items of local flavor made by the hostess herself) was delicious and included wholly organic fresh fruits - jackfruit, papaya and mangoes which came from their estate. True to its name the freshly brewed coffee was available at all times.

We woke up to the chirping of birds breaking the silence of the morning. The air was so fresh and invigorating that it prompted us to put on our walking shoes and explore the surrounding estate.

The guided trek went on for about an hour and we went through a refreshing journey about the various aspects of coffee making.

After breakfast we went to Kemmangundi, a hill station located www.coffeecountyhomestays.com

at 4700 feet above sea level. Even though the hill station proved to be a little disappointing, the drive was breathtaking. We also drove to private waterfalls, which is part of the Shariff ’s estate.

From the road you need to walk down for about 1.5 kilometers to reach this exclusive place (without any tourists or touts disturbing you). En route to these places are plenty of beautiful sights and sounds well suited to the needs of an avid photographer.

Dinner was an elaborate affair cooked on the traditional woodstove with the authentic local flavor. There was a bonfire late into the night with only the sounds coming from the neighboring woods.

This part of the world is any trekker’s paradise. The climb up to the Mullayanagiri peak and further from there to the Baba Budangiri hills is definitely the experience of a lifetime.

GOING THERE? Coffee County HomeStay Shariff Estate Kalledevarapura Kaimara Post Chikmagalur 577101 Phone: +91 92439 07421 Mobile: +91 94493 35546, +91 98801 22916

coffeecountyhomestay@gmail.com

PLACES OF INTEREST • • • • •

Mullayanagiri Peak - 15Kms. Belur & Halebeedu Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary - 45 Kms. Hirekolale Lake - 4 Kms. Kemmangundi Hill Station - 45 Kms.

Pix Suresh Menon

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ClASSICAL MATCH

IPL CARNATICA

IPL on song : After fashion shows and weird ads, wonder if the idea of an IPL band will catch peoples fancy. Mr Modi are you listening or Tweeting?

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“I love the way music flows out of me, my friend, Its like fresh milk out of a cow’s udder” To the age-old question “What’s Navjot Sidhu on?” we say violins

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reetings to all my young and eager rasikas. Today we shall not continue in the same vein from were we left off last time instead I will explain an anecdote that occurred quite recently in my life.

As you are well aware I receive n number of requests from many people who not only want to increase their knowledge base in carnatic music but also want to learn valuable lessons in life.

I was recently approached by a few cricketers asking me to teach them a little about music as they felt that it would teach them a lot more about life.

“I want to soak up all the carnatic music like a super sopper on a dewy outfield”,was the first thing Navjot Sidhu told me when he met me. I was a little apprehensive on taking him in, however when he told me eloquently that “Carnatic music is like manure my friend , it has no use till it is spread around” I realized that he was a willing sapling ready to be rooted and that the best course of action was that he be taught the violin. It did take him a few days to hold it right but after playing the third sarali he was saying “I love the way music flows out of me my friend, Its like fresh milk out of a cow’s udder”.

With Malinga it was much easier. I showed him a room full of music instruments to the brim and asked him to choose. He employed an unusual method choosing his instrument by trying to fit the instrument on his head. In the process he destroyed a chitra veena and a tabla set, till almost, why almost, divine intervention only the ghatam fitted perfectly. I have no hesitation in saying that by far Malinga is my best student. However the only drawback is that he gets frustrated easily and wears the ghatam on his head and bangs it against a wall, thereby destroying it.

When Parthiv came to me with a different

Illustration: Francis

sort of request I was honestly caught off note.”I want to learn Carnatic Music to grow taller, complan does not work for me” he said. I knew that he apart from being short in many things he was most importantly short on confidence. It was almost by chance I discovered that he indeed had a talent. Much like his batting where he plays the same shot again and again he had a prodigous talent in doing a set of repeated actions. I decided that the best instrument for him was the tampura. It required patience which he had plenty, however on the concentration side of things he would lose his after a good beginning. I decided that Joginder sharma who had come to me but would not speak at all about his problem could team up with Parthiv, and it worked perfectly. Parthiv was very good at the beginning and not so good at the end, Joginder was vice versa. Thus together they made perfect harmonic co-ordination.

My last student, I am having a little difficulty with, but just like a patient guru I will never give up. He came to me recommended

by Sunil gavaskar. I have no doubt that he is extremely talented and can be the next GNB but he seems to lose control on a pitch very quickly. It is very clear that he has all what it takes but his weakness is that he keeps changing the swaras thus ends up jumping ragas and being all over the place.

It is not often that I discuss a students weakness in front of everyone but i want you all to learn that by discipline anything is possible. Ajith Agarkar does have a long way to go in terms of discipline, pitch control and maintaining the same line of notes in the raga but he is determined to change and that is all that matters.

So there you go my friends, if you are still undecided about many things remember “ thinking is such a waste of time” and go ahead and “Just do it” (Sponsored by CBZ and Nike)

Bizzarthday So you’re a star. That’s a given. And its your birthday (Woohoo!) You’re entitled to Indulgence. You’re also open to extravagance. That’s still fine. WEIRDNESS is not in

Katy Perry There’s something about growing up, and people constantly telling you about the “Child Within”. Most of us, find time to just laugh, and be joyful. But for Katy Perry, turning 25, was a living a 7 year olds dream. Throwing a "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory"-themed birthday party at Sunset Beach Restaurant in Hollywood, her guests included her actor boyfriend Russell Brand (Willy Wonka at the party maybe?), singers Taylor Swift and Julianne Hough, there were also the likes of JoJo and Perez Hilton.

Guests were asked to wear white to the party and they left with neon paint spattered all over them. Let’s just say everyone went a little crazy. With reference to the seven year olds dream part, there was candy. There was candy EVERYWHERE. If not for the joy that comes from consumption of sugar coated sugar filled items at a venue that can only be described as surreal. It was a chocolate factory, minus the chocolate river. The Oompah-Loompahs, both painted on Katy’s nails, and those who waited on the guest added that final touch. The very next day Katy took it to her twitter writing "THAT was MAGIC! I'm SO happy!!!! I am just giggling at random ... I think this is how it will be for a while..." We think it’s the candy.

ARTIST DISCOVERY – BILLIE HOLIDAY The irreplaceable Billie Holiday was not one who emoted as per requirement but who sang from what she knew. Turns out she was no saint either! Welcome to the world of Eleanora Fagan.

Starting from her mother’s unwanted pregnancy at the age of thirteen, Billie’s life was constantly immersed in bouts of bad luck. Her mother was eventually kicked out and never married her partner. The identity of her father was unsure for sometime. After being sent to a reform convent, she gave up her odd jobs and joined her mother to help out at her new restaurant. By the age of eleven she was working long hours and had to give up her education. At the age of thirteen she was raped by a neighbour and was again sent to the same reform convent.

It was around this time she was exposed to greats like Armstrong and Bessie Smith and developed a major inclination towards the blues. Hard times ahead led her to performing at brothels and in due course she ended up working as a prostitute before the age of fourteen. Her mother joined her when work failed. Once busted, the mother and daughter duo ended in jail. Her many stints in jail did not end here as she continued to lead a life of addiction. Local popularity led her to being discovered by producer John Hammond in 1933 at the age of seventeen.

Hardcore narcotics and drugs eventually led to her death in 1959 at the age of forty four.

On Wilkins’

i-POD

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Train - Hey, Soul Sister Rock | Save Me, San Francisco

Rihanna – Rude Boy R&B | Rated R

Black Eyed Peas - Rock that body Hip-Hop | The End

Justin Bieber feat Ludacris – Baby Pop | My World 2.0

One republic – All the Right Moves Rock and Pop | Waking Up

Lady Gaga feat Beyonce – Telephone Pop and Hip-Hop | The Fame Monster

Taio Cruz - Break your heart R&B | Rokstarr

Usher feat Will.i.am – Oh My Gosh R&B | Raymond Vs Raymond

Kevin Rudolf - I Made It R&B | To the Sky

Adam Lambert – For Your Entertainment Pop | For your Entertainment

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mum’s the word Judy Balan is a Full-time single-mom, Part-time blogger, Chennai-based freelance writer, WannabeJK-Rowling and importantly Nonstop-bullshitter who blogs at www.judybalan.com

’ve been meeting a lot of interesting people of late. If you want to ask ‘Who doesn’t’, I have to say, I don’t. You see, I don’t go out at all. For two reasons – I’m perennially broke and socially retarded. So, yes. Meeting new people (interesting ones, at that) when you’re faffing around in your pyjamas all day, can be quite a challenge.

Now, said interesting person was a blogger I met through my blog and after a few entertaining conversations, we decided to catch up for coffee, offline. In 28 years of living in Chennai, he was the first Surd, I actually met. So I fired some questions his way and found it extremely fascinating when he mentioned he had long hair under his turban. Now, I know that isn’t news to many of you, but I’ve never spoken to a Sikh man, before. ‘Like Axl Rose, long?’ I asked him, wide-eyed. ‘Yes?’ he responded in disbelief, as if he meant to say ‘Please, woman. I descend from the Bhangra tribe. Do I look like I need a piggyback ride on GNR’s brand equity?’

Punjabis are a really proud race, that way. Even Mallus always break into tongues at the sight of other Mallus, irrespective of who’s around. Being a Tamilian, I wish I had half their loyalties.

I mean, my 3.9 year old goes Adiyey Kolluthey in public places and I find myself, cringing. ‘Sing, An Elephant called James or In the Jungle’ I tell her, like a pretentious, hoity-toity mom I would have totally judged, 5 years ago. But see, I’m shallow like that.

If my daughter’s going to sing in public, it might as well be an age-appropriate song that does not bring scantily-clad-women-jiggling-copiousamounts-of-flesh, to mind. Also, if it’s an English song, I get to flaunt the fact that her accent has no trace of the vernacular. Neutral accent, as they call it. See? I’m an ambitious mom. I’ve already ensured she gets a nice call centre job, when she grows up.

But see, the other day, she picked up her makebelieve mic, stood in the centre of the living room in her knickers, tilted her head sideways and went ‘Yeah-hey-heyyy, I’m gonna be a rockstar!’ My brother, who is also her Godfather, quietly turned to me and enquired if she knew the rest of the lyrics. I said no and hung my head in shame. This was by no means an age-appropriate song. And I had let her sing it all the while, simply because it was in English.

In an attempt to ward off the guilt, I let my dad teach her some Tamil, kiddy songs. Dad, who takes it upon himself to preserve the Tamness in our family, was more than happy to do the honours. Within 24 hours, my daughter was singing all kinds of Tamil songs – Paapa paapa kadhai kellu, Poo poova parandhu pogum and even Gospel numbers that I didn’t know. What’s more, grandpa and grandchild were hooked onto YouTube for two days, surfing said Tamil songs. I wasn’t thrilled with the idea, but it absolved my crime, nonetheless. So I sighed happily.

But it got me thinking. We’re all turning into a bunch of culture-abandoning-American-sitcomaping bigots who are ashamed of our rich, Tamilian roots. I silently vowed to give my daughter a bigger scoop of our kalachaaram.

Till she pointed to the sky the other day and said ‘Mamma, see arrow-plane’.

I can forget about the call centre job, eh?

46

For all the propaganda about Indians (or was it Surds?) being a proud race, do we still squirm when our kid bursts out into song in our ‘local’ tongue?

Confessions of a Convent-happy mother according to Judy Balan

Pic: A.Z Adam via Flickr

I

unobjectively speaking

Will that be one lump or two? : When your daughter says “Mamma see ARROWplane”, would you rather she developed a Brit or an American accent?

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