There’s a bit of history in every member of Abiogenesis that collectively contributes to what makes the genre-hopping band important. Most notably, there’s guitarist Moa Subong, who also invented the nown-renowned and widely-used bamhum, a Naga flute. Completed by vocalist and bamhum player Guru ArenlaSubong, drummer NeilalungGonmei, bassist Meren L Tzudir and percussionist Aso, Abiogenesis delve into unexplored stories of Nagaland with a dose of rock and world music that they like to term “Howey Music”. Folk music from Nagaland and other parts of India are heard on songs like “Up on the Mountains”, “Voices in Kisama” and “Whispering Mountains”. It’s this kind of versatility that’s heard on albums ranging from 2007’s Aeon Spell to 2010’s Slice of Heaven and the 2012 album Legacy of the Mountains. In the two decades that they’ve been active, Abiogenesis have performed across Europe and Asia, plus garnered acclaim from within the country. They’ve received the Governor’s Excellence Award for distinction in folk music, while Moa has received a National Award for inventing the bamhum, among other commendations. Accolades notwithstanding, Abiogenesis retain an infectious energy and folk-fusion sound, putting storytelling at the centre of their must-see live shows.
