If you want to know what the music scene in 60s Kolkata was like, head out to Phoenix Bar today evening.
Brush Off The Mid-Week Blues With An Evening Of Blues With A Band From 1960s Kolkata
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What Is It?
Mel Samuel Blues Band is one of those legendary blues bands from Kolkata back when the city was known as the music capital of India, Park Street was rocking with music gigs every evening, the psychedelic days of Pam Crain and Louis Banks.
Mel took a break for a while and now he is back on the scene to show you that the thrill hasn’t gone. And you have to be there to get a feel of what the heydays of Kolkata’s party scene was all about.
Why Should I Go?
Because there’s nothing like kicking it back old-school with a beer while you listen to a couple of super-talented musicians jam it out!
And because this is a comeback for the super-talented and legendary Mel who comes from a long line of distinguished musicians of ye olde Calcutta who made the city music scene one of the most rocking back in the 60s and 70s.
The youngest of the very musical Samuel family, Mel has played with some of the great bands of their time like the older avatar of New Generation, the short-lived but dynamic trio of Bertie, Mel & Fuzz, High and the gospel music band, Shine.
The line-up for High was the who’s who of Kolkata musicians – Nondon Bagchi, Lew Majaw, Bertie Da’Silva, Cyrus Tata and Mel Samuel. There is a clip in a film by Mrinal Sen called Calcutta 71. It is a party and the band is performing. The music is radical for that period. Watch it here.
Tell Me More
The quartet delivers mood, drive, zest and panache such as you haven’t heard in quite awhile. Two of Mel’s compatriots from his Shine days are an integral part of the band: Darryl Raphael on bass, and on drums, Russell Manuel. On second guitar and vocals, is Mel’s younger son, Saul Samuel. Mel Samuel, of course, is on a mellifuous guitar and vocals.
Anything Else?
Sold on this? We definitely are. So if you are looking for something to do on date night that isn’t just going for pizza? Or been racking your brains for a special present for your parents’ anniversary? This event is where you need to be. You are in for a treat!
The cover charge for the gig is INR 300 redeemable at the bar.
What: TJE With The Mel Samuel Band.
Where: Phoenix Bar/Club, Shakespeare Sarani.
When: April 19, 8pm to 11pm.