XChange 2014: Music Program
With almost thirty different acts from several different corners of the planet, the IndiEarth XChange’s music program this year promises another three day sonic celebration of the finest caliber. Artists from India, Germany, Reunion Island, Israel, France, Kuwait, Mexico, Mauritius, Australia, New Zealand – from genres as diverse as their countries of origin – all gather together in one space at The Park Chennai, to share their stories and showcase their sounds. In just the past year, IndiEarth has programmed over 160 Indian and international artists across its various platforms – all as part of its vision to showcase the sheer variety of independent talent that exists in India, and introduce a diverse set of international artists to the Indian landscape. The XChange’s music program is an extension of that vision.
The line up from India this year includes a blend of the classical and contemporary, electronic and experimental, hard rock, post rock and so much in between. Manjari Chaturvedi showcases her unique Sufi Kathak form of dance, while renowned Rajasthani maestro Kutle Khan promises an exuberant and captivating performance; the infectiously catchy electro-melodies of two piece live act Madboy/Mink gear up to set the dance floor ablaze, while four piece hard rock act Grey Shack are back from Austria and ready to rock Chennai. The line up also features acts like post rock band Until We Last from Bangalore with guitar heavy instrumental sounds, The Ganesh Talkies from Kolkata with a kitchy blend of alt rock, reggae, ska and Bolly, Western/Indian rooted electronic act Sapta, and composer/producer Don Bhat + Passenger Revelator. The programming from India this year aims to showcase the sheer diversity of independent talent currently sweeping the nation. 
The International selection of artists this year includes Nathalie Natiembe, nicknamed the ‘little punk of Maloya,” blending her traditional Maloya influences from Reunion Island with rock, jazz and reggae; The Zenpad Experience featuring the Business Class Refugees showcasing a new concept for Ableton Live, with an interactive performance that combines EarthMoments samples and audience members participating as well. The line up also includes German multi-instrumentalist and producer Madeleine Bloom performing her live electronic set, singer songwriter Graciela Maria from Mexico, experimental electro French musician of Iranian descent Arash Khalatbari, drummer and didgeridoo player Yogev Haruvi with his one man show, German techno producer Justus Kohncke who blends minimal techno with disco and Krautrock elements – and so much more sonic splendor.
Words, however, fail to do justice to the music. And so lo and behold – the IndiEarth XChange playlist, featuring a colourful blend of artists who will be performing at this year’s XChange.
For the full artist line up and schedule, click here.
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