Soft Vowels and Melodic Syllables: Boi Akih Debut in Beijing

Moluccan folk fused with modern jazz? If you’re not quite sure what that would sound like, head over to Star Live on Friday, September 10 to find out. Boi Akih, comprising life partners Monica Akihary and Niels Brouwer, plus table player Sandip Bhattacharya, will be taking the stage there in the group’s Beijing debut.

Boi Akih draw on Monica's Moluccan background – that’s an Indonesian island group for those not familiar with southeast Asia – as well as various other European and Asian influences. The addition of an Indian tabla for their Beijing appearance will bring additional depth to their already global sound.

Lauren McCarthy caught up with Monica shortly before Boi Akih's arrival in Beijing.

How have your different backgrounds contributed to your sound?
The different backgrounds of the three musicians gives the music a new sound, that’s a combination of European music (classical and contemporary), Indian classical music, traditional music from Indonesia, Africa music, and jazz. We also use different instruments like guitar, tabla, and gongs, as well as different voice techniques.

What does Boi Akih mean, and why did you chose it as the name for the group?
It means Princess Akih. It's inspired by a legend from the Moluccan Islands entitled Boi Ratan (Princess Rotan).

Can you explain a bit about the particular language that you use in your music?
Niels Brouwer and I are writing poems in Haruku, the language of Haruku Island [one of the Moluccan Islands]. This is the language of my father. The soft vowels and melodic syllables of the language gives the music a beautiful sound. It fits with a dark and warm voice as well as our improvisational approach.

Is this your first time in China? Will you be looking to add any local elements to your sound while you’re here?
This is our first time to China, so it will be a new experience. We are always looking for new influences!

Are there any musicians or artists that have directly inspired or influenced your music?
Absolutely – Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, Hariprasad Charassia, Ravi Shankar, Cassandra Wilson, Cecilia Bartolit, Ali Farka Toure and many more.

What should people expect at your gig?
The unexpected!

Boi Akih play The Star Live at 7.30pm on Friday, September 10. RMB 280 (VIP)/200 (on the door)/170 (Star Live members). Tickets available on 010 6425 5677.

At 7.30pm on Thursday, September 9, Boi Akih will present a free workshop at the Indian Embassy, comprising a performance, Q&A and interactive activities such as a tabla demonstration and the tasting of Indian snacks. If you are interested in participating please confirm your attendance with Wu Promotions at +86 10 5165 0798 ext. 35 or on floriane.nicolas@wupromotion.com.