Where did your band name come from?
‘Ah!’ is an expression of wonder and lust that we hear shouted at most of our shows. ‘Pandita’ is a Hindi title given to scholars – we particularly like Pandita Ramabai. She was the first female to receive the title and worked for the emancipation of Indian women. We are not officially Panditas ourselves however we won’t correct this mistake if it is made.
Group members:
Gemma Nourse (accountant, guitarist and vocalist), Laura Volfolski (IT consultant, keyfumbler and vocal-ish) and Lauryn Hill (THIS IS YOUR INVITATION).
Describe your sound:
Like the atmosphere at a packed out Olympic stadium, we are electric. Like an Olympic ice skater eating post-victory sugary breakfast cereal, we use loops. Like a crowd singing The Star-Spangled Banner, we are harmonious.
Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?
Jonny Telafone.
What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing?
One time Gemma was drunk, that was weird. She’d also only had cordial which was weird. She hates cordial.
What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?
Getting second place in the under 10s girls 100m freestyle for Laura. For Gemma it was in backstroke. Also, Bar 32 was outrageous last month.
What are your plans for the future?
Marriage. Settle down, try to have a family. In other news we’re hoping to release a split single with our musical friend Karoshi.
What/who makes you laugh?
Tina Fey, Byron Fay and James Fahy. Subtle differences in name, not so subtle differences in humour and wit.
What pisses you off?
We don’t really get pissed off. Oh wait sexism, racism and polytheism.
What’s your opinion of the local scene?
It’s great! We have a crush on every Canberra band. What’s happening here is really special. Not only are there great bands but also people organising events and creating opportunities for creation and expression.
What are your upcoming gigs?
We are playing at a FUNdraiser on Friday March 19 at McGregor Hall. Come along and make puns on local band names with us.
Contact info: ahpandita@gmail.com
