Ton's Musical Musings: Boi Akih at the Bimhuis

Boi Akih ("princess Akih" in the language spoken on the Indonesian island of Haruku, part of the Moluccan archipelago) is based in Amsterdam. Both guitarist Niels Brouwer and vocalist Monica Akihary were born in the Netherlands, yet musically they are true global citizens. For starters, Akihary sings almost exclusively in Harakunese, a language which very few people around the globe can understand. Her vocal prowess is spectacular, even more so when you realize she is completely self-taught. Brouwer, her musical and life partner since twelve years, did get a proper training as a jazz guitarist, but since then shook off all references to bop.

The musical universe they created together, was carefully crafted out of the styles and genres they came to love along the way. These include Indonesian folklore, but also Indian classical, West-African manding, latin, funk and even pop.

After several band projects with various line-ups, Akihary and Brouwer released their first duo-album Yalelol a few months ago. On December 20th they started their tour of the new program in Amsterdam's prime jazz venue, the Bimhuis.

As a live act Boi Akih is nothing short of sensational. With Brouwer, there's no hint of flashy playing in order to impress. What makes him so great, is his ability to suggest more notes than he actually plays. With just a few carefully placed accents he creates a virtual groove that is felt in all corners of the room. His collaboration with Akihary is almost symbiotic. Hearing the two perform a complex ad-lib in perfect sync, sends a shiver down your spine. Don't miss them when they show up in your neighborhood!

More info on www.boiakih.com and www.enjarecords.com