Bring On The Blues: Documentary by Elvis D’Silva

It was a fascinating experience meeting all these people most of whom work other jobs and learning that for a lot of them blues music is a burning passion. They make time to hone their craft and keep alive their love for the blues by playing small venues whenever they can. ~Elvis D’Silva

THE BLUES IN INDIA

One of the things I enjoy the most about writing a popular blues blog is the exposure to people and events around the world that might otherwise be overlooked. Despite the fact that the blues originated in The United States, its distinctive structure has risen above its confines and traditions. In India, while it may not be as trendy like pop and rock, the blues shares a generous following; especially in cities like Mumbai. It may be niche following, but it’s vibrant and driven by some talented and passionate individuals.

So when Elvis D’Silva forwarded me his documentary “Bring on the Blues,” I thought it was something I’d share with all my readers – because passion has no boundaries.

THRILLPILL FILMS & DESIGN

The Mahindra Blues Festival was formed as a result of the growing demand for the blues genre. The festival concluded its second year last February bringing the likes of blues greats like Buddy Guy, Taj Mahal, Robert Randolph, Ana Popovic, Jonny Lang and John Lee Hooker Jr.

Thrillpill Films & Design a boutique production house out of Mumbai, were tasked with documenting all the events surrounding The Mahindra Blues Festival. As a precursor to this live concert event, D’Silva and his team produced “Bring On The Blues” to explore the reach of blues music in India.

D’Silva’s earliest exposure to the blues was in the form of an Albert Collins interview he read in a guitar magazine. He is influenced by the likes of blues legends such as BB King, Jimi Hendrix and most recently The John Mayer Trio and Buddy Guy. D’Silva goes on to say,

“I am particularly interested in the music of Taj Mahal. When we met him in Mumbai, it was fascinating to listen to the man talk – the depth of his knowledge, his continued enthusiasm for music and the great facility with which his band performed.”

Elvis D’Silva’s interest in film-making started in 2000 making animated shorts. This was followed by a few experimental videos (one of which was shown at the Sundance Online Film Festival in 2003) and three narrative shorts. D’Silva’s work is carried out on a parallel track to his personal desire to direct feature length films.

Thrillpill Films has been producing short form documentary content since 2009, and also produce web commercials, live performance videos and an on-going series covering art show openings.

So sit back and enjoy “Bring on the Blues” at the top of the post. In addition you can also view The Mahindra Blues Festival 2nd edition highlight video just below this post. And please feel to share your thoughts in the comments area below. If you were sent this article via e-mail click here to share your comments directly on the blog. And please share this post with others you think may be interested.

The Blues Blogger

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johnsim
johnsim
11 years ago

This is so cool! Man, like the Blues, are everywhere! Thanks again BB!

marcel lemieux
marcel lemieux
11 years ago

I am blown away..it never occurred to me that India folks were into blues..excellent documentary…great exposé on your part and nice vid..i send it to some indie friends…thanks..keep up the good work.

mottvillemama
11 years ago

wow.. This is the coolest. I actually never thought of blues as being world wide like this… so wild!!!very good stuff, for sure…

Hermitbiker
11 years ago

…. a really awesome blog and review !!

bluesemotion
11 years ago

sooo cool …Blues all over the world …that is awesome .great review .hanks alot