"ORQUESTRA MAHATMA is a perfect example of the complete openness of the current London music scene. This multi-faceted band from the capital has a very rare gift; in minutes it can bring together musical influences from all corners of the globe and combine them in compellingly virtuosic but refreshingly simple style. Although their name suggests the Orient, the foggy Thames metropolis is the starting point for an exciting, emotional journey. In this melting pot of nations, barricades dissolve into thin air before they're even installed; the mini-orchestra coolly picks up its ingredients practically off the street. European traditions and South American rhythms blend on a "Young persons guide", as well as Spanish music, which in itself sounds medieval. From a Balkan village wedding, by way of a cocktail dinner party, into the highlands of Kenya we go, until in typical British style the bundle of miniatures, swinging all the way, ends with an arrangement of the traditional "Golden Slumbers" . The Mahatmas can be counted among the most respected English jazz musicians. Paul Clarvis was Leonard Bernstein's favourite drummer on his London visits and has become first choice for all the visiting US stars. Stuart Hall, who plays a vast collection of stringed instruments on their CD, belongs to Django Bates' "Delightful Precipice" crew, and a myriad of bands from mainstream to acid jazz knock themselves out to have Thad Kelly's groove behind them. An unpretentious small jewel, with a mighty difference". Reinhard Kochl. |
