“I had no idea that chanting “Maha Deva” and “Kali Ma” over and over (and over) could be so beautiful. That simple words and melodies could become so layered, so complex, so intense with voices and instruments weaving beat and rhythm and energy together. The band started slow and sweet, masterfully constructing ebbs and flows that had people quietly swaying and then leaping to their feet. As the pace picked up more and more got up and started moving, clapping, at times jumping up and down like happy 5 year olds in a bouncy castle.
I didn’t jump. But, I did dance. And I even sang, getting past the fact that I actually can’t sing.
It didn’t matter.
I smiled at people I didn’t know. I wrapped my arms around those I did, and hugged hard, drenched in sweat, at the thrill of sharing these moments.
I saw rapture. Celebration. A community building of people who never met and those who knew each other well all joining together through sound and creativity and presence.
And at times the silence between the songs was more powerful than the music itself.
As the last note slipped away, and Sean chanted “om” I found my hands automatically folded at my heart, then my forehead, my head dipping, as we shared a final moment of thanks, love and togetherness.
Much to my surprise, the jaded part of me was silenced for awhile.” Read the full article here.
