AkashA Interview: SXSW 2010

Posted on Feb 22nd 2010 5:18PM by Adam Fritzel
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Playing a diverse assortment of instruments from around the globe, AkashA has created a signature world-fusion sound. In 2008, this Malaysian group debuted their talents at the Rainforest World Music Festival and were voted Favorite Band out of 18 countries. Now with a critically acclaimed album, 'Into AkashA,' the band looks forward not only to SXSW 2010, but to a world tour including Canada, South Korea, Thailand and India.

Describe your sound.

AkashA plays world-fusion music. The instruments used are Indian percussions, with guitars, sitar and the piano. The sound has been described as ethnic, fusion and groundbreaking.

How did your band form?

The band was assembled by Sivabalan S. Shanmuga Sundram, a pharmacist-musician. Previously, Siva worked with Jamie Wilson and Greg Henderson in a different band. When the opportunity to perform at the Rainforest World Music Festival came along, Sivabalan then commissioned the other musicians, such as Kumar Karthigesu, Vick Ramakrishnan , Jyotsna and Badar. AkashA then underwent a lineup change, replacing the other two with Eric Li and Nizam. Thus, the current AkashA.

What are your musical influences?

Using the North Indian sitar and tabla, the South Indian mridangam and ganjeera, a very jazz-based piano and all rounded guitar sounds, AkashA draws influences and ideas from the members within the band. Of course [we have] a few cover pieces that show the versatility of the band on some Latin-African based music.

How did you come up with your band name?

The name of the band was christened by then-Artistic Director of the RWMF 2008, Mr. Antares. AkashA means "ethereal space" or "bountiful space," much like the music it represents, crossing borders.

Is this the first time you will be playing at SXSW? What are you looking forward to?

Yes, this will be our first time to SXSW. The band is particularly excited as this will be its first performance in the US, despite having many invitations from other festivals and higher-learning institutions. The band is looking forward to meeting other world music bands from around the globe and looking forward to the possibility of meeting talent scouts and more festival organizers from USA.

What are your favorite city to perform in? and why?

AkashA has played a lot in its home country, Malaysia, [as well as] Singapore and Perth, Australia thus far. In 2010, the invites are from Korea, South Africa, Thailand, India and Australia, so we will have to wait and see what that will be like. Our homeground, Malaysia, is surely our current favorite, as it features the RWMF, which attracts tens of thousands. It's a beautiful atmosphere. Set within the rainforest against a mountain, the ambience is beautiful, peaceful and surreal.

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