They’veΒ got the blues, baby!
Mahindra Blues Band Hunt, the ultimate Blues battle, witnessed three big bands compete for the ultimate prize at the True School of Music,Β a few days ago. The aim of the contest was to unearth original talent from around the country and, needless to say, it received an overwhelming response. Highly established music directorsΒ Ehsaan Noorani and Loy MendonsaΒ judged the final round. Among the talented bands, Polly Wants a Cracker –Β a blues, reggae & rock n roll band based out of Bangalore, showcased their favourite numbers. The band is known for their rendition of covers and their ability to compose songs that craftily blends a number of genres. The title was ultimately clinched by Blu, a Delhi-based band that focuses on blues, country, soul, RnB andΒ NOKNOK. The band appeals to fans across the country, thanks to their fresh perspective of the blues and alternative music.
Credits: Mahindra Blues Festival
As a result of their performance at the band hunt, Blu have sealed the deal to perform on the second day of the 7th edition of the Mahindra Blues Festival – Asia’s largest blues festival!
Speaking at the event,Β Loy MendonsaΒ said,Β “There is so much talent in India and I am glad to nurture it and guide it in the right direction.”Β Ehsaan NooraniΒ added,Β “The Mahindra Blues Festival is a truly international festival and it gives me great pleasure to be able to enable a band to perform on that platform.”Β
The festival, that will be taking place on the 11th and 12th of February, 2017,Β will witness a diverse mix of talented artists including three-time Grammy nominee Shemekia Copeland, βblues prodigyβ Quinn Sullivan, Americana soul singer Janiva Magness, Mumbai-bredΒ Blackstratblues, vocal-powerhouse Grainne Duffy, andΒ The Supersonic Blues MachineΒ featuring Billy Gibbons of ‘ZZ Top’ fame, and blues-rock guitarist Eric Gales.
Credits: Mahindra Blues Festival
Jay Shah, Head of Cultural Outreach atΒ MahindraΒ &Β Mahindra Ltd.Β said,Β “Through the Mahindra Blues Band hunt we focus on unearthing the most exciting unknown talent in the world of blues. By nurturing these budding artists we not only bringing forth exceptional skills but also helping to continue the long legacy of creativity and celebration in the world of music. Mahindraβs philosophy of ‘Rise for Good’ spreads the message of a positive change of any sort in the society, and the strength to empower people and communities to explore their passion, to rise, to grow.”
If you’re a blues fan, you need to check out the Mahindra Blues Festival this year!