The band Manaslu Blue brought a fresh sound to Moksh in Jhamsikhel with their bluegrass and Nepali folk fusion music. This unique style of fusion music combined traditional Nepali folk music with contemporary bluegrass elements creating an invigorating listening experience.

Zoe Levitt of Manaslu Blue and Ryan O’Donnell kicked off the show with a classic country song, Old Swinging Bridge. The beautiful melody resonated with listeners and evoked feelings of nostalgia. It was like being transported to a bar in Texas on a summer night, remembering someone you once loved and drinking beer under a starry sky.

Another bluegrass song by the duo If I Had My Life to Live Over Again was a tribute to love. The heartfelt lyrics sung in Levitt’s soothing voice set a tone that many can relate to when remembering someone. This song drew attention to the wondrous moments we have experienced in lives. It encouraged living with more appreciation and gratitude.

The other songs sung by the duo were Ocean of Diamonds, Never More Will Roam, and In the Gravel Yard.

Then, Manaslu Blue took to the stage with a bang, performing their entrancing blend of traditional music and modern style with Levitt on mandolin, Prince Nepali on sarangi, Anish Tamang on guitar, Yuson Maharjan on percussion, and Sabin Ghising on baansuri (flute).

The hypnotic and compelling music of Manchade (Squirrel Hunters) captivated the audience with its mesmerising baansuri and guitar chords. The upbeat sound of these musical instruments was a pleasure to the ears.

Nepal’s cultural music scene was spotlighted by the traditional folk music called Sirsaya Hegu. It featured catchy rhymes and a lively beat, which instantly grabbed the attention of listeners. Maharjan’s percussion added more energy to the song. This combination of elements came together to make this song an unforgettable experience that stole the show.

Sani Sani was a melody that captured the hearts of the audience.With the dominant use of sarangi and soothing sound of baansuri, it had a mesmerising effect on listeners.It was a romantic song which teased and complimented the girl through its melodic tones. With its unique mixture of musical instruments, the song was able to bring out different layers of emotion from the audience.

Other songs performed by the band were Bajho Khetma, Marching Shadows, Greasy Coat, and Nellie Kane.

Lastly, the fusion of Nepali and American music in two songs performed by Manaslu Blue and Donnell created something magical. These songs showcased how two distinct cultures can come together and make timeless music. Using the Nepali musical elements, East Tennessee Blues and Sitting on Top of the World was an example that music really can be a bridge that connects people from different cultural backgrounds.

Levitt stated, “Manaslu Blue is taking the two worlds and trying to fuse the music of those worlds that suggests a holistic approach to creating something unique — a bridge between American and Nepali traditional music. Manaslu Blue creates a sound that harmoniously combines American and Nepali traditional music, allowing for cultural conversation and appreciation not just with words but with sound.”