MIM: Coming from the land of earthquakes, social movements, social networking, peace-lovers, and global corporate conglomerates, Rupa & the April Fishes embody the pluralistic and paradoxical sounds of the San Francisco Bay area.
Inspired by street music and ethos of public art around the world, physician and bandleader Rupa started composing music in multiple languages in order to investigate the idea that what runs beneath the apparent differences is something deeper: our intrinsic need for human connection and shared celebratory experience. She found in drummer Aaron Kierbel a longtime creative counterpart who provides the essential heartbeat to the sonic adventures and, together with the rest of the band, they are creating music that is bridging divides and pointing to the value of life and living music – in all its force and delicacy.
It’s safe to say I didn’t know what to expect from this concert – and even safer to say I don’t know how to summarize it afterwards. Rupa and the April Fishes were an energenic and eclectic band. A force entirely unique and entirely of their own.
The band played a wide selection of original songs – everything from sea shanties to hippy rock to reggae to Indian jazz. It was enthralling to see a trumpet, bass, and cello collaborate on such a strange repertoire of songs. Rupa was the glue for the group – leading the songs, engaging the crowd, directing the solos, and singing in multiple languages. She was intriguing and obviously brilliant.
I’ll honestly admit I didn’t agree with or even comprehend many of the messages of her songs. I don’t even know if I would attend another show again. But the band was fun and memorable and I appreciate their freedom.
