The NK Band has opened for Dave Matthews Band, Jason Mraz and John Mayer, but one of its best shows happened in Carbondale a year ago, said NikHil Korula, frontman of the band.
The NK Band played a Sunset Concert last year, but had its set cut short because of bad weather. Now the band is back in Carbondale ready to take the stage at 7 p.m. today outside Shryock Auditorium.
“It was awesome, one of the most memorable shows we have had,” Korula said of last year’s show. “Before we stepped foot on stage people were waiting in the rain for an hour.”
He said the thunder and lighting added more excitement to the event.
“There was a little bit of fear and a lot of adrenaline,” he said.
Korula said the band was excited to play in the Midwest because the people are very good-natured. He said he hopes to be able to play a full set this time around for the fans, but early weather forecasts show chances for isolated thunderstorms. Korula described the Los Angeles-based band’s sound as a world influenced jam band that draws heavily on many different styles ranging from African rhythms to Latin grooves.
The band’s Web site describes its sound as a mix of calypso, rock, reggae, funk, African and Latin; combining the best of what the world has to offer.
The band recently played at the 2009 Bonnaroo music festival, one of the largest music festivals in America. The festival has included big-name acts such as Bruce Springsteen, Nine Inch Nails, Beastie Boys and Phish.
Korula, a classically trained vocalist who said he has been training since the age of five, has also performed with a few big acts as well. He has performed with the likes of Placido Domingo and Barry Manilow, according to the Bonnaroo Web site.
“The music of the NK Band soars seamlessly across a world of influences, lifting listeners to a plane of joy and positivity. Through their electrifying concerts the band pushes musical boundaries with its improvisation, making each live performance unforgettable. As a result, the enthralled audience is left with a feeling they will never forget,” Bonnaroo’s website said.
Korula said the band has been busy this summer and after performing in Carbondale, it will go on tour with The Roots. Whether the band is playing a nationwide tour with The Roots or performing in a Sunset Concert, Korula said the fans are always a part of the ride.
“We love music and if you love music too, you’re just as big a part of this as we are,” Korula said.
For more information on the band visit www.nkband.com and www. bonnaroo.com/artists/the-nikhil-korula-band.aspx.
Chris McGregor can be reached at 536-3311 ext. 275
