IMPHAL, October 10: Phynyx erstwhile known as Phoenix reunites and all set to take the stage by storm. The veteran rock band will be performing for the Rock fans after a lull of nearly 14 years. The musical extravaganza also includes another premier band, Soulmate from Shillong and features Keith Viegas from Mumbai.
Frontman of Phynyx, Len Gangte spoke on behalf of the band members at a press meet held at Manipur Press Club today. He said that the concert theme, “For the love of music and life, avoid drugs and unprotected sex”, highlights the attitude of the band.
“ We have our motto that health is indeed the true wealth, the rock scenario in the State is confused by the public and associated with drugs and violent activity, which is not so”, he added that the band has maintained a clean image and wants to propagate that association with a ‘Rock and Roll’ status need not mean that one is on drugs.
Part of the proceeds of the concert scheduled on October 21 at YAC Ground (Range) will be donated to children affected by HIV/AIDS, he stated.
Phynyx (Pheonix) was formed in the late 80’s and the band members include Len Gangte on vocals, Vivek Sharma on Guitars, Ringo on Bass and Bobby on the skins. The band will be joined in the show by Gouhao on Guitars and Khup on the keyboards with acclaimed guitarist Keith Viegas.
The interesting part of the makeup of the band members is the representation from the ethnic communities of the State. Len is a Kuki, Ringo a Naga, Vivek from Meitei community etc.
“ Looking back, I feel quite surprised on how we have banded . It is a communal integration of shorts bound by the medium of Music”, Len exclaimed.
The band has a fan following in the State as well as in the north east region. They had performed and participated in different venues throughtout the country. Phynyx had their hay days in the early 90s and was selected to play at the “Great Indian Rock Festival” at Kolkatta and their composition, “Woman” was rated as the best song in the GIR album. After touring the northeast by the end of 1998, the band members took leave from the music scenario to pursue their individual careers as it was financially unviable in the music industry of the State. The scenario still prevails today.
Vivek Sharma, a prolific guitarist of the State mentioned to IFP that music has the power to influence social behaviour and inspires of hope and healing which is a need of the hour today for the trouble torn state. He further stated that the event strives to support the youths to break harmful habits and develop a responsible attitude.
“We want to set an example for the youths of the State”, the members stated. They concluded that Phynyx has a reputation to uphold, which will be witnessed on October 21.