Karmana, new sounds for cello and guitar
Visionary guitar virtuoso Simon Thacker returns to sound in duo with the outstanding young Polish cellist Justyna Jablonska to present the premiere of a new large scale work composed by Simon, Karmana, harnessing the expressive and timbral possibilities of these poetic and tonally rich instruments, combining elements from classical, jazz and powerful musical systems from around the world, resulting in an exhilarating meeting of musical styles, cultures and traditions.
Karmana is Sanskrit for “performing anything by means of magic” and the programme is informed by the belief in the mystical, transformative power of sound, drawing upon Simon’s unique cultural inspirations and pioneering experiences working with leading musicians from diverse traditions.
“Consummate skill, intuitive musicality and impressive agility in dexterous finger work.”
– The Scotsman
“A veritable tour de force that took the breath away.”
– Rainlore’s World of Music
“Simon Thacker is a guitar virtuoso that puts on an amazing musical display that should have virtually all six string aficionados dropping their jaws in collective amazement”
– Critical Jazz
“Edinburgh’s Simon Thacker is a classical guitarist but, like George Harrison, he has seen how intertwining styles can actually work… By blending them, he has created something highly listenable but very different. The styles don’t jar-they emote. Turn this on, tune in and be transported.”
– Daily Record
