You know what is under-rated as a music genre? The Indian funk scene. Thank goodness Red Baraat has a strong grasp on what is needed and what rocks. The diverse octet rocked the stage of the delightful Hamilton venue in Washington DC this weekend with toe-tapping North indian bhangra rhythms seamlessly melded with the best of the jazz, go-go, and hip-hop worlds – culminating in a sound that was part funky, part Indian, and all good.
The audience, equally delightfully varied in age, gender, ethnicity, and clothing (apparel ranged from tye-dye to feathered hats to suits) knew they were in for a treat when the MC for the night announced: “Now folks, there will likely be no quiet, intimate moments in this show, but if there are, and you feel the need to talk to your friend, neighbors, whoever…. just don’t.” True to the intro, the band left little time for small talk, launching into an energetic set that channeled the vibrancy of the Indian culture and the energy of their Brooklyn homebase.
Long story short, the dance floor was filled instantly, the crowd was smiling constantly, and the Hamilton can add another successful show to their record.
Totally delightful.