It’s the right fit

That's what the Bombay Rock Association says about an acoustic performance by two rock bands that's set to unfold at a peculiar venue: a shoe store

That's what the Bombay Rock Association says about an acoustic performance by two rock bands that's set to unfold at a peculiar venue: a shoe store

For some folk in Mumbai, shoe shopping may be a mildly disconcerting experience on December 26. These are the people who may, on that particular day, decide to walk into the new Converse store on Khar Linking Road and find themselves an unwitting audience for two performing rock bands.

Called bRa Jammin', the event has been conceived by the Bombay Rock Association, a 12 year-old group of over 12,000 members across India dedicated to the promotion of all genres of music. The idea, according to Sujeet Ramanna, President, bRa, is to erase the lines usually delineated between bands and audiences. The aim is to create a casual atmosphere that encourages improvisation and the odd impromptu moment. Think of it as an MTV Unplugged show, outside the confines of a professional studio.

It's a perfect fit for the Converse brand, too. This is, after all, a company long associated with rock 'n' roll; one that created special editions of shoes inspired by bands like The Ramones and The Who. In 2009 alone, it released a collection in collaboration with iconic Australian rock band AC/DC and the influential Metallica. "What we wanted to do, with an event like this, is promote new bands and fresh sounds instead of just professional outfits," Sujeet adds, "New bands rarely get a venue to perform."

The bands picked for the show are Dischordian and Red Nebulau00a0-- the former, a staple on the live music circuit, the latter barely a couple of months old. Why them? "Dischordian, although well-known, is a band that lends itself to an unplugged performance," says Sujeet. "They attract attention. As for Red Nebula, we picked them simply because they are unknowns who can do with the exposure."

Garreth D'Mello, frontman of Dischordian, intends to showcase the band's sparser originals. "We will do a few covers," he says, "but the focus will be mainly on original music." Toeing the same line is Hardik Verma, lead vocalist of 5-member outfit Red Nebula. "The audience can expect a fresh sound because we are primarily an acoustic band. Our original material is perfect for this event."

There have been three bRa Jammin' events in the recent past, all rather private affairs. Depending on the response, the two-hour show may become a series of shows. Garreth says he agreed to be part of it because of the guaranteed exposure to all kinds of people. "For many who never attend rock concerts, this will their only chance to hear Dischordian," he explains.

On: Today, 7.30 pm onwards at Converse Store, Shop No. 711, Bharat Bhavan, Khar Linking Road, Khar (W).