More Than Words: ‘Extreme’
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Extreme performing at 'Shirock 2019' in Ukhrul, Manipur on October 19. (Photo by: Soreishim Mahong)
Popular American rock band Extreme debut in India Shirui Lily Festival 2019 was simply ‘More Than Words,’ for both the band as well the fans.
All road led to Tangkhul Naga Long ground (Bakshi Ground), Ukhrul on Saturday as pure nostalgia mesmerised the crowd with Extreme headlining at ‘ShiRock,’ on the concluding day of the 3rd State Level Shirui Lily Festival 2019.
With hits from 2nd studio album, Pornograffitti (1990) like ‘More Than Words’ and ‘Song for Love’ and ‘Tragic Comic’ (‘III Sides to Every Story’, 1992) becoming anthem hits and still ruling the airwaves and ‘listening pleasure’ in the region, the band was expected to be a major draw.
However, it was more than expected, with some estimating the passionate crowd to over 50,000, the biggest for a rock concert in India, as per one of the hosts of the night.
They were not disappointed as the band took the stage and enthralled the fans with their repertoire, dabbling and blending acoustic with blistering guitar riff.
When the close the concert with their biggest hit, ‘More Than Words,’ it was a night most memorable for the fans and the band alike.
Along with the songs, Extreme also expressed happiness to learn that one aims of the festival is preserving Shirui Lily – a flower unique to the region.
Later, updating d about the concert on its official Facebook page, Extreme posted: “Having never before gone to perform in India, The last thing we expected showing up for the first time in 30 years was an ocean of 30,000 passionate fans of every age and generation possible.”
“We cannot thank you enough for forgiving our absence and showing Extreme this kind of love,” the band added.
“Honored to be guests in your country. Beautiful people. Magnificent culture. Incredible fans. See you again soon!
As the 3rd edition of festival concludes, the organiser must be satisfied with the outcome as fans and visitors from all North East and India along with local populace congregated to witness the festival.
Shirui Lily Festival was organised by Manipur Tourism Department, among others, to promote the Shirui Lily, an endangered Lily found in Shirui hills of the district.
On the opening night on October 16, another popular band, Nazareth took the stage. The Scottish band did not disappoint over 30000 fans as the ground erupted with screams and waving hands to the gritty hard rock and high decibel music. Several artists from the region also performed at the festival.
(Morung Express News)
