Divine Connection believes that “Winning the hearts of people is the greatest achievement.” This Christian rock band from Kohima, Nagaland, the winner of MTV Rock On concert (2011), is coming to the capital city to give its first ever performance in Kerala, as part of ‘Cult a way’, the annual techno-cultural festival of Sree Chitra Thirunal College of Engineering. The band, formed in 2004, has a present line-up comprising Obed Kath (vocals), Lichen Kichu (guitar), Bendang (drums) and Timothy (bass). They perform at Nishagandhi open-air auditorium on March 9. In an e-mail interview, they talk about their music.
On Divine Connection
It was a passion for music that brought us together. We are all based in Kohima, but belong to different communities. We are full-time musicians. None of us has a job. So we get enough time to eat out, hang out, make music and spend time with our families!
The road to MTV
About a year after the formation of the band, we participated in the first ever National Hornbill Rock contest and became the first runner up. Obed was chosen the best vocalist. The following year we started working on our debut album, ‘El-Roi’, which was released in 2008. It was while we were going for a concert that we got a call from a guy in Guwahati asking us whether we would like to audition for the MTV contest in Shillong. Why not, we thought. We practised for two days before the audition. By God’s grace we won the title despite difficulties in trying to cope with the routine and hectic schedules.
Their music
We love playing various genres of music such as classic rock, funk, jazz, little bit of metal and our rock form of Hindi songs.
On the music culture of the North-East
In our home state, almost every one, young and old, loves music. So there was no lack of support. In addition, the Nagaland State Government formed a new department of music called Music Task Force (MTF) in 2005 to create a platform for up-and-coming artistes, both individuals and groups.
Reception for their music
After winning the MTV contest, we’ve been busy travelling across the country. So we don’t feel that we are cut off from the rest of the country. But in the international scenario, we feel alienated.
Music as livelihood
It is not easy being an artiste, however, surprisingly, life is getting better and busier day by day. We earn enough to support our families. Also, we keep ourselves busy all the time by spending quality time with families, friends, holding social gatherings in our own ways and, most importantly, practising and polishing our music.
Debut in Kerala
We’ve performed in Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad and were well-received. We expect the same here as well. We are also looking forward to enjoy the nature here.
