The Three Seas fuses modern Australian Jazz with Baul music creating a unique, soulful sonic imprint that radiates.
About this event
When experiencing the band live, audiences are transported into their supernatural world.
“a musical marriage that sent the room into ecstasy” Tracey Korsten, OzAsia Festival
“astonishingly beautiful and powerful” Julie Robins, Kryztoff.com
“Weaving a beguiling tapestry of jazz, rock and Indian folk music … an immersive festival highlight” – Jessica Nicholas, The Age
“An entirely original modernity” – John Shand, Sydney Morning Herald
“A rare sound of joy” – Debolina Sen, The Times of India
The remarkable members of The Three Seas were drawn together by a deep love of music, a mutual respect for their distinct and diverse cultural origins and a shared passion for creating songs that resonate universally. When experiencing the band live the audience is transported into into their supernatural world.
The Three Seas is led by Australian composer and saxophonist Matt Keegan who’s search for new experiences and sounds first drew him to India in 2009. It was in the beautiful town of Santiniketan in West Bengal where the ensemble first met. The unique combination of their distinct cultural backgrounds and instant musical rapport quickly established the energetic and uplifting musical alchemy of The Three Seas.
The Three Seas is fronted by Baul singer Raju Das, who’s full-hearted voice and radiant stage presence is accentuated by his mastery of the khamak and its danceable rhythms. The Bauls are a nomadic tribe with a rich cultural heritage and their own language, dance and musical style. Generations of Raju’s family have lovingly passed down these traditions with a deep emphasis on spirituality and a heartfelt focus on the vast energetic presence within the human body, as expressed through song and dance. Some of The Three Seas pieces are modern interpretations of ancient Baul songs that celebrate this spirit.
Darjeeling-born singer and multi-instrumentalist Deoashish Mothey contributes soulful vocals and sound effects in a Himalayan style. He also plays an array of West Bengali stringed instruments including the dotora and esraj producing intricate and mesmerising riffs.
Drummer Gaurab Chatterjee from Kolkata is a member of Bengali rock giants Lakkhichhara. He is also fluent in traditional West Bengali folk percussion beats and feels.
Bringing the music together at various points in the bands performing history has been collaborating artists Cameron Dyall, Steve Elphick and Brendan Clark. The Three Seas’ team is completed by label Earshift Records, Sound Engineer and Co-producer, Richard Belkner and Executive Producer, Amy Curl.