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| Sunday, 11 July 2004 |
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The last time they hit our shores they called themselves 'Zardas' and fascinated our audience with their brand of ethnic music, funky grooves and the gypsy jazz sounds. They had a young violinist with them Fiona Pears and they rocked the nights away. This time around they called themselves 'Mundi' (meaning 'World' in Latin) and they have a flautist with them Tamara Smith. The other members of the band are Misha Marks - guitar, Simon Lusby - bass, Sumudi Suraweera - drums. Mundi's unique sound comes from the diverse musical influences each member brings to the group. At Christchurch, New Zealand, where the band performs regularly, their music is a popular choice at many jazz venues, private and corporate functions. The group is making plans to record and release their debut album, containing their originals derived from world music. Misha 'Guitar' Marks is well known in the Christ churchmusic scene for his natural talent on the six-string, and more in particular for the style he developed during travels around Spain and Latin America. Currently studying music at the Massey University in Wellington, Misha is concentrating on the study of jazz. The bassist Simon Lusby a graduate of the Jazz School on guitar has played with several bands around New Zealand, the most popular being Solar and Otautahi All Stars. His versatility has enabled him to play both guitar and bass with the bands. Eager to spread his knowledge to others, Simon teaches music and will be returning to the University to attain honours in music. Sri Lankan born Sum Suraweera has played both traditional Sri Lankan percussion and jazz drums for several years and it has always been his vision to bring the group around to Sri Lanka and this he achieved in two years. He is currently completing a music honours degree in jazz performance, and is keen on making regular tours to Sri Lanka. Tamara Smith the virtuoso flautist has just recently returned from Paris where she played in many Latin and jazz bands and absorbed the exciting sounds and culture. A graduate of the Christchurch Jazz School she received acclaim for her album 'Pangolin' which she recorded with her guitarist brother Tyson. 'Mundi' have gathered quite a following in Christchurch playing crowded concerts at the Harbour Light theatre in Lyttelton. Dynamic in their expression, the members when they were here two years ago included their original arrangements of popular Sinhala songs much to the appreciation of Sri Lankan audiences. Make the date. |
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| Produced by Lake House |
In town from the cool climes of New Zealand is the four-piece band
excelling in playing originals, world music with a Latin feel funk and all
schools of jazz. Currently this young and enthusiastic band with a Sri
Lankan born drummer is performing at Clancy's on Wednesdays and at R&B
on Mondays.
