In the world of music, Shillong holds a sacred place: not only does music drive the community here like nothing else, but some of the finest musical talent in the country is to be found in this stunning hill town. Musical traditions that die out elsewhere live on in Shillong. Talent finds its own audience in Shillong. And sometimes, future stars are born in Shillong.
Soulmate – arguably the most talented duo to have emerged from Shillong in recent decades – are a blues band comprised of vocalist Tripti Kharbangar and guitarist Rudy Wallang. Acclaimed as the country’s most skilled guitarist, Rudy’s virtuosity is well matched by the power and control of Tripti’s voice; a coming together of two talents that has earned them tremendous recognition across the country and increasingly, across the world. In 2007, and subsequently in 2010, they became the only Blues band to represent India at the International Blues Challenge organised by the Blues Foundation of America in Memphis, Tennessee (USA) and emerged as semi-finalists: no small feat among the world’s top blues performers. They have also performed at concerts and venues globally including at The Rum Boogie Cafe (Blues Club of the Year) and Ground Zero alongside 150 other bands and musicians from around the globe.
Now in their 10th year, the band – formed in February 2003 – has released two records, and played in France, Memphis, Brown University, and Norway. They’re top draws on India’s growing music festival circuit including NH7 Weekender and are currently working on their third album.
At THiNK, Soulmate – performing with a skilled ensemble of accompanying musicians – will perform to an audience that takes its music as seriously as it does its conversations and THiNKing.
