Name: Rob Shannon
What the best venue - anywhere in the world - you've played? Other than The Basement? The Elands Bulga Hall, Elands, NSW. A beautiful community hall in the middle of an amazing rainforest, on top of the great dividing range...breathtaking!
Is there one country you particularly love performing in?Japan. Such a different place to play Arabesk tunes. They really understood our music. A little more than people do here.
What part of the world has had the most influence on you, musically? America, many parts of Europe, Turkey, Africa, India, South America. Those are the big influences in our sound. People often refer to Arabesk as a Gypsy band - that's just one little part.
Where have you experienced music really impacting and influencing a culture? I would have to say regional Australia.
When it comes to your band - is more always better? Oh yes, much much more!
What's one instrument you wish you could master? I spent nearly a decade studying Tabla in New Delhi. I wish I could master those drums - one day!
Do you have any pre-gig rituals? Turn up, relax, hang out with Arabesk - and laugh a lot.
What's your favourite food dish? I love Daal Makhani. Black lentils. Best cooked at a Sikh Temple. So smokey and creamy.
Can you recommend a drink at the bar? I recommend the house beer, wine or spirit.
Website link for more info? http://www.arabesk.com.au
