Dolcy D’Cruz
For three decades, Archies has stood tall as one of Goa’s most celebrated live bands. Founded and led by Antonio Nunes from Verna, the band proudly marks 30 years of musical excellence, this month. “The band was formed in 1996. Actually, rehearsals had already started around mid-January. We were just 18 or 19-year-old college boys from Dhempe College, Panjim at that time,” Antonio recalls with a smile. “That time, we were only five boys.” Those early days were marked by enthusiasm, raw talent, and constant change. As college commitments took priority, several early members came and went. “We started playing a couple of shows, but some couldn’t cope because of their studies,” Antonio says, naming musicians such as Cleophas Torres, Terrence Freitas, Errol Pereira de Andrade, Reginald D’Souza, Ashley Fernandes, and Anthony Fernandes, who were part of the band’s formative phase. The band continued to evolve, with musicians like Joe Pereira on drums, Minguel Lourenco on keyboards, Ximeno Barracho on lead vocals, and Saluzinho Fernandes on bass and vocals forming a strong line-up that lasted nearly five to six years. “After Ximeno left, Aloysius (Ally) Rodrigues from Tidal Wave joined us,” Antonio adds, marking another important chapter in the band’s growth. As Archies matured, so did its sound. The addition of violin, saxophone, and female vocals expanded the band’s musical range, allowing it to cater to diverse audiences. Today, the band’s strength lies in its accomplished line-up: Shane Fernandes (keyboards, saxophone, violin, vocals) from Margao; Royston D’Souza (lead guitar, vocals) from Saligao; Minguel Lourenco (keyboards, vocals) from Margao; Michelle Nathan (vocals) from Cansaulim; Antonio Nunes (rhythm guitar, vocals) from Verna; Kassel Gomes (drums, vocals) from Nuvem; and Cely Fernandes (bass guitar, vocals) from Cuncolim.
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Reflecting on their musical philosophy, Antonio says, “When we started, it was sheer music, soothing to the ears. Music that the elderly could enjoy and the youngsters could dance to. And from that day till today, you’ll still see everyone, from elders to youngsters, on the dance floor till the end of the show.” Living up to their promise of “Always Exceeding Expectations,” Archies has become synonymous with the best of live entertainment from Carnivals and major public festivals to elegant weddings, elite corporate gatherings, and acclaimed national-level performances in neighbouring states. Their appeal extends well beyond India’s shores. Archies has proudly represented Goan music on international stages, most notably at the prestigious May Queen Ball in Doha, Qatar, organised by the Goan Overseas Association, and through widely appreciated performances in Dubai, Muscat, and Bahrain. “We played in Doha continuously for about five years, then again after breaks of two years. Last year, they wanted us to commit again, but we were already booked for that date in May,” Antonio explains. Closer to home, Archies shares a special bond with one of Goa’s most iconic Carnival events. “This Carnival, we’ll be performing at the Red and Black.
Dance at Samba Square, Panjim, it’s our 25th year there. Thirty years of the band, and twenty-five years at Red and Black.” Antonio says proudly. Behind the scenes, discipline and unity keep the band strong. “No shows means practice for us. During Lent, we practice three to four times a week at my place in Verna,” Antonio says. He credits long standing members like Minguel Lourenco, who has been with the band for nearly 28 years, for the deep understanding within the group. “Unity is very important. It’s not easy for a band leader to keep everyone together. Shane Fernandes is the guy who makes us laugh and Cely is the jovial one. There has to be laughter, otherwise there is no happily ever after,” adds Antonio. Even after 30 years, Archies is still creating and bringing Goa together on the dance floor. “We have two original songs written not yet named. The music is partly done, but wedding season keeps us busy. We are trying to finish at least one song during this 30th year,” concludes Antonio with the promise of bringing more music to Goans through Archies.
