Disregard all the news reports – when it comes to the world of music, Australians love India. Melbourne-based reggae musician Jake Savona, better known as Mista Savona, has previously incorporated samples of Bollywood songs in his material and is currently recording with local musicians on his first trip to the country as an artist.
Savona, along with Bangalore-based dancehall artist King Jassim (also a part of hip hop group Low Rhyderz), are performing together in two cities this month, including a show at Pebble, Palace Grounds on September 20.
Savona, who has worked with artists such as Sizzla Kalonji, says the reggae scene back in Australia is small but committed. The artist, who released his album
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Savona, on the other hand, is planning to get hands-on with Indian instruments and sounds. Says the artist, “Now that I'm in India for the first time, I really want to record a range of traditional instruments and meet as many local musicians as possible. I'm a keyboard player as well as a composer and producer - I'd also love to get some lessons on the harmonium!”
Savona is clearly the traveller, considering he claims to be the only Australian reggae artist who visits the genre’s hub in Jamaica and work with artists to promote reggae in both countries. Says Savona, “Reggae has a particularly special place in the world's music I feel - it has a universal message of peace and spirituality, frequently deals with issues of social justice, while at the same is incredibly infectious & really great music to dance to. This is a rare and precious thing! Music should push people to evolve and go deeper into themselves and the mystery of life.”
Jassim feels Mista Savona’s music is exactly the remedy Bangalore needs. Jassim says about the gig this weekend, “I am sure it’s going to be different. I haven't seen Bangalore as youthful and open-minded as Pune. It’s always a hard work to get them into the vibe. But we need such challenges. We are ready with some dubby electronic sounds since Bangalore is too used to EDM.” Mista Savona, King Jassim and the Low Rhyderz perform at Pebbles, Palace Grounds Road on September 20 from 9pm onwards. Call 9916695200 for more detail.
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