Cousins in Colombo

CONCERT REVIEW

After weeks of hype on television and radio, rapturous applause greeted the Colonial Cousins as they walked on to the big square stage in the middle of the cavernous Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo. This applause was expected, given the heavy rotation of their videos on MTV Asia. Their brand of mature adult contemporary pop has struck a chord with many Lankans who have a penchant for ballads and music of the mellower kind. After some preliminary small talk with the audience, the twosome launched into "Alright" from their debut album, a funky boppy tune with feelgood lyrics. Hariharan really opened up and let rip on the vocals – his reputation as a fine singer in the bhajan and ghazal traditions are clearly well deserved. Lezz, Stevie Wonderesque in his plaits, was the communicator.

Highlights of the show included the spiritual "Krishna", its moving message somewhat spoiled by Lezz plugging the song´s inclusion in the MTV Viewers Choice award. Even though his songs don´t sound like advertising jingles, I guess the pitch-man in Lezz couldn´t resist the soft sell. Then there was a hypnotic rendition of "Indian Rain", locked down by a unified bass that throbbed throughout the stadium. (Though if you listen closely to that last song, you´ll find a direct ripoff of melody from "Norwegian Wood" by the Beatles.)