Monsoon Sunday: Free gig tonight!

Apparently, the best things in life are for free. Napster thought so; the music industry didn't. Nevertheless, music lovers all over the world have firmly stated their preference for how they like their music: Free download. So here's a local band that has tried to make a difference by taking into consideration the changing nature of the music world.

On Independence day 2008, 10 Second Rule created history by becoming the first Sri Lankan band to release an album exclusively online for free download in partnership with popular local rock music site www.rock.lk. 'Monsoon Sunday 3: After the Rain' is the final part of the vision of a trilogy that began with singer/song writer Aadhil Aziz's earlier band, the ever popular Brass Monkey Band's album 'Monsoon Sunday 1: Warning Signs.' The tagline "Monsoon Sunday" was a direct reference to the Sunday of the Tsunami back in December 2004, the period during which the album was recorded. "Warning Signs" was an album that created waves in Sri Lanka, having infused traditional guitar based rock music with the mellow sounds of cello and piano and with ethnic percussion instruments.

Although initially the Brass Monkey Band had planned to release a second album, that was not to be. 'Monsoon Sunday 2: Storm,' a heavier album that featured in-your-face alternative rock in the style of Nirvana, Alice in Chains and Pearl Jam, was eventually released under the 10 Second Rule name as a limited edition, where only 200 albums were made available and given free at Rockapoluza held in August 2007.

'After the Rain' features 12 tracks of a funk/blues/groove/alternative genre, a fusion of the styles evident in the first two albums, and features guest performances by the fabulous guitarist Sarani Perera and master percussionist Pabalu Wijegoonawardena, both of Thriloka fame. "Another Monsoon Sunday" and "Help Me Understand" from the album have already been gaining considerable air play on local radio. However, watch out for "Groove City" (A song about Colombo!), "Help me understand" and "This war." The album is now available exclusively at http://aftertherain.rock.lk.

10 Second Rule consists of Aadhil Aziz (The Brass Monkey Band – Guitars, Vocals, Song Writer), Uvindu Perera (Thriloka – Bass), Jim Sykes (Drums and Percussion), Sarani Perera (Thriloka – Guitars) and Aftab Aziz (Guitars and Backing Vocals).

So what can we expect next from 10 Second Rule? Well, Monsoon Sunday, the album launch party hosted by 10 Second Rule, happens tonight – Feb 10, 2008 – at the ultra chic Zanziba. The festivities kick off at 7:30pm and entrance is Free! Yes you read right, the gig is for free! The band promises a power packed set list that is guaranteed to blow your mind away. TNL Onstage winner, the fantastic CC, will also make a guest appearance in support of 10 Second Rule. Our advice? Get there early so that you won't miss out!