Imbued with the nectar of musical flavours and pleasant voices, their performances have the power to transport the music lovers to the golden era of our music industry. Bringing a unique musical taste, stirring a flow of memories and taking the listeners on a journey from delight to wisdom, their performances fill hearts with joy. Tunes born from a touch on a single string of a guitar and a key of a piano resonate with feelings and emotions. This piece is about a music band called Spectrum.
Before speaking of Spectrum, we thought of sharing with you the fascinating story behind its founder, Ashen Tharuka. Let’s delve into his tale, while taking a sip of the morning coffee by the window.
Hailing from Wadduwa, Ashen had his education at Tissa Central College, Kalutara and studied music under two teachers Nipun Gayani Kadigamuwa (Vocal) and Nipun Kalum Kularathne (Music).
With an interest in music, he has performed at events in collaboration with a music band. As the time passed amid challenging situations, his curiosity into the vibrant world of music ignited the idea of starting his own music band. This is how he breathed life into Spectrum exactly 10 years ago.
Significantly, it was guitarist Christoper Roberts who renamed the band Spectrum. Growing like a massive tree with overhanging branches, Spectrum has already made a name for itself in the music industry today. Currently, Tharuka teaches music for students from grade 6 to the A/L and also for adults.
Uniqueness
There are talented and skillful musicians who add colour to Spectrum. Redhem Guitarist – Ashen Tharuaka, Lead Guitarist – Neil Sendanayake, Percussionist – Dasith Vithsuka, Drummer – Duminda Sellapperuma, Base Guitarist – Sampath and Pianist – Geenaka Gayan.
What makes Spectrum unique is their natural music without a keyboard. “We use percussion instruments, guitars and so on and avoid using keyboards and computer-generated music.” Said Ashen. Not only giving a heart soothing musical taste but also preserving the original creations, Spectrum entertains their fans regardless of cultures and languages.
Transcending all the boundaries, Spectrum plays Sinhala, Tamil, English, Hindi, Spanish and German songs by using a wide range of musical instruments according to the styles and genres. It is significant to mention that Ashen’s team ensures the discipline of the musical industry while establishing their own identity. Needless to say that most music bands distort original musical creations at night shows.
Don’t let your blood burn because Spectrum is the remedy to the malady. Ashen’s team carries the legacy of the old musical creations for the future generation by preserving the tempo, melody and the flow of the original musical creations.
”There are meaningful songs composed by veteran musicians. Hence, we don’t want more songs. It is important to present those musical creations for our fans, ensuring the natural quality of those creations.” Ashen noted.
“Our conversation became warmer and warmer like your fresh morning coffee spiralling smoke up to the window glass. When asked about his take on mushrooming reality shows, Ashen said that it is futile to organize reality shows.
“Budding singers enter the field of music by singing senior musicians’ songs. If they distort veteran musicians’ original creations after earning a name in the industry, it is disgusting. How can we change someone’s creation without their permission? I am always wondering,” said Ashen.
Covering all districts, cities, towns and villages such as Benthota, Beruwala, Nawala, Avissawella, Wadduwa, Spectrum has brought a vibrant taste of music to music lovers with more than 2,000 songs. Concluding our conversation, Ashen remembered his beloved parents. “My father, Sam Ignashiyas and mother, Rohini Munasinha identified my skills and supported me whenever I needed their support. They are with me always.”
