By Kiana Arnott-Job
The Nepali band Night, who describe their music as ‘new school folk’ are currently touring in the UK and promoting their debut album ‘Ani Ukaali Sangai Oraali.’ Their concert at Brighton Dome started with an intriguing instrumental percussion piece. With instruments dotted around the stage - ranging from guitars to drums and Nepali sarangi (stringed instrument, a little like a fiddle) and bansuri (bamboo flute) - each piece added more intricate layers and beautiful harmonies.After a detailed explanation of their music, the last member of the band was brought on stage. His instrument? A leaf! This moment was still exciting, even though I had seen Night before at Shambala Festival last year, and you could tell that everyone in the venue was enthralled. The ‘leaf flute’ is a very old traditional Nepali instrument and is undoubtedly one of the most compelling instruments in the band’s extensive line-up, although it must be said that the various other elements deserve equal appreciation. Another stand-out feature was the use of vocals, weaving an intricate tapestry of melodies with mingling male and female colours.
Overall the experience was - to use a cliché - really unique. The audience’s interested silence during songs probably didn’t ease any initial nerves the band might have had, but there was no need to worry as the poise and beauty in their music shone through and the audience could hear it loud and clear. This was an impressively charming opening concert by Night and they will surely only get more confident as the tour goes on – catch them while you can!
