The earliest music as such came in conjunction with the theatre and traditional open-air dramas. However, music as a medium of its own did not find an identity until 1903, when Nuthi, the first music album in Sri Lanka was released through Radio Ceylon. By the 1960s, Sri Lankan music took a particular fondness to Indian music. This lead to a culmination of Sri Lankan and Indian music eventually came up with fusion Sri Lankan 'mainstream' music. However, a little later, the 1980s marked the popularity of Metal and Rock music. It can be traced to the 80s when Sri Lankan bands like Sage Merlin, Venom and Rattlesnake took to playing covers of Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath. Some of the group had their music, but they rarely took to recording their music - even if they did, they couldn't be distributed.
The true genesis of the local underground music began in the mid-90s. Independent Square became the first local rock and roll band to release their music which was composed, performed and recorded by Sri Lankans. They showed that local musicians could take up rock and roll and can produce their music. That, in turn, made way for the Sri Lankan heavy metal Band called Stigmata, which is in Colombo.
Music in Sri Lanka
A famous Hindu festival held at Kataragama of Sri Lanka, it attracts thousands of devotees for over two weeks in July or August, from across the island to the holy town. Just like the Esala Perahera, this festival is also marked by processions of dancers, musicians, elephants and stunt performers, all adding up to the cheerful celebrations. Here one will get to enjoy the tradition Sinhala music.
2. Vel Festival: Held in July or August in Colombo, Vel Festival marks the victory of God Skandha also called lord Muruga over evil forces. The vel is placed in a vast mesmerizing golden chariot which is drawn by devotees chanting 'haro haro' dressed in white with their faces covered in holy ash. The procession is entertained by dancers, musicians and elephants moving along across the city to the sound of chants, drums, bells and spiritual songs. The gorgeous parade and the sacred vibes are sure to leave someone mesmerized.
