Olive Beach Restaurant; Bangalore, April 7th 2008

Review by Antara Hazarika

One can transcend levels when one is listening to music and if it happens to be live jazz it is even better.

Olive beach Bangalore was infused with energy on Monday night as Amit Heri and band gave their inaugural performance.

It was indeed a splendid treat to the senses, amidst the glow of the candles and under a grand chandelier the band consisting of Amit Heri, Holger Jetter, Keith Peter, Hamesh and Mili Nair gave us a wonderful performance. The ensemble shared a comfortable chemistry with most of the compositions by Amit Heri .They also played a Herbie Hancock number amongst other jazz and pop standards. I specially enjoyed watching the shape of Heri's guitar and Holger Jetter's sleek improvised Violin. Heri further went on to display his virtuosity in "All the Things you are",  "Like someone in Love" and "What’s that Smell".

The Performance space enabled guests to watch from a particular point of view through the arches. I found it particularly interesting to watch from behind the sound mixer. Holger and Amit seemed to play a single instrument while Keith's electric bass playing floated through the lights and the guests. The Ambience and atmosphere was sensual allowing the mind to revel in an ethereal space.

"What’s that Smell?" was provocative and heady where Himesh's high voltage drumming made for an exciting climax.  Holger's energy and drive  magnetized all present. It was a pleasure to watch Vocalist Milli Nair and Holger as they have a personality that mesmerizes.

I had hoped for more interaction between the Band and the guests despite the architechture at Olive Beach. By the end guests had snuggled close to the band to groove and watch the musicians. Live Music uplifts the soul in a special way which is why if you are in Bangalore on the 21st of April do come for the Gereard Machado Trio!