The lights are dimmed and Nitin Sawhney, who is modestly positioned at the side of the stage, begins proceedings. The organ-like hum breaks the silence, and drones a ceaseless noise until it's overpowered by the vocals of Jayanta Bose, who has one of the most amazing voices you are ever likely to hear.
We all know what a traditional Indian vocal sounds like. But to hear this haunting and amazingly dextrous voice against a visual backdrop of suffering and war is little short of profound.
Through his music Nitin Sawhney conveys the grievances of an often immoral and selfish world, and 'Prophesy', his fifth and most accomplished album to date, is testimony to his rare talent.
Seeking knowledge and first hand experience of global problems he embarked on a world expedition to meet people and absorb sights and sounds. 'Prophesy' was the result. And sitting listening to it live, much more so than hearing the recorded version, astounds you and makes you realise just how far this man's music has developed beyond one country, one music, one race.
Although the tabla plays a great part in the set, Indian music is not the only focus. Tracks such as 'Homelands' burst with the energy of a flamenco guitar, 'Street Guru' concentrates on a talking voice, and 'Breathing Light' is introduced with an utterly enchanting classical piano.
The eight piece English Chamber Orchestra add yet another dimension forming a halo of strings around the ever changing vocalists. The recently absent voice of Jhelisa heralds a storming intro to the more uptempo beats of 'Sunset' and 'Broken Skin', whilst Tina Grace adds an utterly sensuous edge with a voice that spirals beautifully around the unpredictable keys of 'Letting Go' and of the new single 'Cold and Intimate'.
Constantly splashed visuals only help to further emphasise the poignancy of the music. All the time Nitin Sawhney sits politely left of stage. With manners akin to a conductor at a classical concert he soberly introduces each track and the constant parade of artists and musicians. And although he speaks of not being able to get his tongue around his words tonight, when it comes to the highlight of the show he has no difficulty whatsoever.
Rapper/beatboxer JC001, bass player Eric Appapoulay, Nitin Sawhney and Jayanta Bose in the most amazing, unbelievable exhibition of precision timing, speak in unison, at double, treble speeds, stopping starting, overlaying, gesturing and controlling their voices in a way that has to be seen to be believed. Breathtaking.
The encore is no less impressive: an impromptu contribution from Courtney Pine, a phenomenal appearance by the legendary Jeff Beck on the seldom performed but often requested 'Nadia'; and a helping hand from MJ Cole on the remixed version of 'Sunset'. The comment made by JC001, "around the world in eighty rhythms and most are here tonight", couldn't have been more accurate.
