By Gasper Crasto; Photo Art ImagEnations by Simon Dias (Tel No. 97827670)
Francis Almeida better known as Maestro Shahu will release his 2nd Video production 'TIATRIST' on Friday, 16th November 2012 during the staging of the Konkani drama 'Aitar Budhvar' at Kuwait Medical Hall, Jabriya, Kuwait.
Shahu’s debut video album ‘MUSICIAN’ was well accepted and admired.
‘TIATRIST’ features a galaxy of Goan and Kuwait based stars in a unique presentation. The picturisation of each song entwined with rhythmic beats showcases the Goan spirit that makes Konkani-style songs so popular -- making the album creative, rich and melodious. The VCD made for a global audience is sure to leave a mark of Shahu’s class as a showman – a singer, director, maestro and a one-man musician of immense ability.
Shahu is no stranger to Goan world of music and drama. He is the 1st Goan musician to ‘single-handedly’ play music on Konkani Stage.
Few however know that Shahu, a dynamic talent with his keyboard, began his tryst with music drumming from St. Francis Xavier School, Macazana and Guardian Angel College, Sanvordem, to propel into a musical horizon forever. Evolving into an ace drummer, he had the rare and splendid opportunity of honing his musical skills under the baton of Chris Perry, the eternal Goan icon. But it was his evolution into a keyboardist that shot him into instant fame.
Shahu has indeed come a long way with his association with music spanning nearly two decades. His musical creativity was elevated further after his arrival in Kuwait in 1999. He has played at almost every show in Kuwait since then. The maestro has also played in UK, Muscat, Doha, Bahrain, Bangalore, Darjeeling, etc, either directing or performing for top directors. He has also done a short stint playing live music at Dubai's famous Viva Goa restaurant.
In recent years, Shahu has created a niche for himself by forming his own band called 2#Sharp which is adept in belting out all kind of songs, be it in Hindi, English, Konkani, Portuguese or other languages -- performing a large repertoire of songs on the request of audience.
Footage of ‘TIATRIST’ was shot in Goa, as well in Kuwait where outdoor videography is largely prohibited. Video & Editing of the album are credited to Kuwait-based Franky Fernandes who has demonstrated great expertise of art in giving special effects for a spot-on combination and clarity.
The album contains captivating songs by leading singers of Konkani stage – Lawry Travasso, Marcus Vaz, Ben Evangelisto, Cajetan de Sanvordem-Michael D’Silva-Mario de Majorda, Lopes Brothers, Bab Agnel, Katty de Navelim, Ignatius de Xelvon, etc.
The album also brings into limelight Shahu’s wife Clemmie Pereira-e-Almeida who is making her debut as a singer with an adorable and enchanting voice – singing in style -- as cheerful as her dad Cajetan de Sanvordem. Young Muriel too has an impressive first appearance.
The composition of title song 'TIATRIST' is a tribute to Goan artistes who have kept the flame of ‘tiatr’ burning over the years. The song presented in an inimitable fashion and rhythm is sung by Shahu, Clemmie, Bab Agnel, Cajetan de Sanvordem, Mario de Majorda and Michael de Silva. A clipping of Shahu receiving ‘Artiste of the Month’ award in Goa at the hands of Goan icon Prince Jacob can be seen in this song. Incidentally, Shahu is the first NRI artiste to receive this award.
Muriel sings ‘Mai ani Pai’ with a sweet, charming voice. This is sure to be one of the standout hits of the album.
‘Chitt’ by Marcus Vaz and Clemmie has a wonderful advice especially for men working abroad. While Bab Agnel’s song ‘Chotur Rau’ is sure to go well with Goans and expatriates living in Kuwait. The song is supported in screenplay by Jose Fernandes, Rita Mascarenhas and Benson.
Well-known and most admired trio of Cajetan de Sanvordem-Mario de Majorda-Michael de Silva sing ‘Gulfantleo Igorzo’, putting up yet another treble of great excellence.
Superstar Lawry Travasso sings an incredible song ‘Kamrak Xiddkavni’ which is identical to his trademark tunes and lyrics, and displays ‘class’ of the seasoned singer.
Lopes Brothers has a perfect duo, immortalizing one of the most loved and respected stars of Konkani stage who died an untimely death, recently.
Katty de Navelim has a powerful and truth-seeking solo in ‘Bhurguem’ sequenced with scenes enacted to perfection by Zaneta Aranha (Mangalore), Remy Fernandes, Himanshu, Aerosmith Almeida and the ever-green Lawry Miranda.
A song astonishingly well sung and perhaps beyond anyone’s imagination is Ignatius de Xelvon’s ‘Xevalleacho Operator’. The natural beauty of Goa backed by excellent flow of music find a place in this song.
Ben Evangelisto singing as a ‘Nustekarn’ needs no narrative, it is simply awesome!
The album will surely go down in history of Goan art and drama as one of Maestro Shahu’s best works. It is certainly expected to be a blockbuster with fans giving ‘TIATRIST’ a 5-star rating.
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