Dewarists return with travelling tunes

When television music series The Dewarists by Dewars debuted last year, it sought to bridge three need gaps: between music and travel; dissimilar artistes; and eclectic music. By chronicling the process of creating a new song from scratch, through its travelogue format, it set a high benchmark in music programming for television.

When television music series The Dewarists by Dewars debuted last year, it sought to bridge three need gaps: between music and travel; dissimilar artistes; and eclectic music. By chronicling the process of creating a new song from scratch, through its travelogue format, it set a high benchmark in music programming for television. Some of the collaborative compositions, such as ‘Minds without fear’ by Vishal-Shekhar and Imogen Heap, went up the popularity charts instantly.

The upcoming second season, to be aired from October 28, will feature newer artistes and destinations. The focus this time has been on putting together artistes who’ve never teamed up before and whose respective brands of music don’t overlap. Singer Monica Dogra, who will be back as the host, is every bit thrilled. “Now, in the second season, we are more experienced. I’m very excited just to be back. We’re going to be sharing the stories and histories of so many talented people.”

There’s lots to expect: Salim-Sulaiman joining hands with British singer-producer Fink and singer Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan, electronica duo Shaa’ir and Func teaming up with folk band La Pongal and veteran rockers Thermal And A Quarter jamming with a fresh-on-the–scene jazz-R&B duo Adil & Vasundhara. Fusion biggies Anoushka Shankar and Trilok Gurtu will also feature in the series.

Says Salim, “The concept is phenomenal. When we were first approached, we were nervous. But at the same time, since we’d done collaborations before, we thought it will be familiar territory. But it was a completely new experience for us.” The musicians went to the Haji Ali dargah in the city where they saw local qawwals performing. And that’s where the idea for their future song was born. “The qawwali had a stunning rhythm patter, which was very interesting for Fink. He pulled out his guitar and started strumming too. We adapted to each other’s styles and that’s how the song ‘Let go’, took shape.” The lyrics were penned by Salim-Sulaiman and Manoj Yadav, and Shafqat added his Sufi-inspired Punjabi touch to it.

Jam it
Salim-Sulaiman (Mumbai) with Fink (London) and Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan (Lahore)
La Pongal (Chennai) and Shaa’ir and Func (Mumbai)
Thermal And A Quarter (Bangalore) and Adil & Vasundhara (Delhi)

Also watch out for:
Anoushka Shankar
Trilok Gurtu

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