In the late 1960s, a quiet musical revolution took root in Sri Lanka. Up until that era, popular Sinhala music was largely dominated by formal orchestral arrangements and theatrical soundtracks. Then came a group of energetic young musicians carrying acoustic guitars, driving calypso rhythms, and vocal harmonies that instantly captured the heart of the nation. [...]
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In the late 1960s, a quiet musical revolution took root in Sri Lanka. Up until that era, popular Sinhala music was largely dominated by formal orchestral arrangements and theatrical soundtracks. Then came a group of energetic young musicians carrying acoustic guitars, driving calypso rhythms, and vocal harmonies that instantly captured the heart of the nation.
That movement laid the foundation for modern Sri Lankan Sinhala Pop. At the centre of this musical evolution were three legendary outfits: ‘The Moonstones’, ‘The Golden Chimes’ and ‘The Super Golden Chimes’.
Now, for the first time in over five decades, the surviving pioneers and original golden voices of these iconic bands are coming together on a single stage for an extraordinary reunion concert titled ‘Echoes Of Melodies’. On Sunday, 11th October 2026, at 7.00 PM, the Musaeus College Auditorium in Colombo will witness a historic celebration of Sri Lankan music heritage, presented by the Royal College Group of 1986 in association with DK Promotions.
Beyond celebrating half a century of music history, the concert carries a deeply meaningful purpose. Organised by the Royal College Group of 1986, 100% of the net proceeds from the event will be channelled directly into establishing the ‘Royal College ‘86 Group Member Welfare Fund’. This initiative provides critical emergency, financial, and medical support to batch mates and their families in times of hardship.
The Evolution of a Legacy: From Calypso to Electric Overdrive
To understand the significance of this reunion, one must revisit the late 1960s, when a visionary young composer named Clarence Wijewardena teamed up with Annesley Malawana to form ‘The Moonstones’. Under the guidance of Gerald Wickremasooriya and the historic ‘Sooriya’ record label, The Moonstones redefined radio broadcasting with immortal acoustic-pop hits like ‘Mango Nanda’, ‘Ramani’, ‘Dilhani’ and ‘Kalu Maama’. Their bright, three-part vocal harmonies and catchy, relatable lyrics created an unprecedented craze among the youth.
As the decade turned, the sound evolved. The early 1970s saw the birth of The Golden Chimes, led by Clarence and featuring vocalists like Lankika Perera. The group brought a richer, more structured band setup into the spotlight, producing timeless classics such as ‘Kimada Nawe’, ‘Malai Walai’ and ‘Suragana Weswala’.
By the mid-1970s, Sri Lankan pop music reached its peak electric era with the formation of ‘The Super Golden Chimes’. Armed with overdriven electric guitars, brass sections, and a tight rhythm unit, Clarence, Annesley and their bandmates created a sophisticated, high-energy sound that filled stadiums across the country. Hits like ‘Gamen liyumak’, ‘Sadak Basa Giya’, ‘Kada Surudini’ and ‘Udarata Niliya’ cemented their status as absolute trailblazers.
One Stage, Five Decades of Memories
While decades have passed, the music of these three outfits has never faded. It continues to be sung at family gatherings, batch reunions, and radio airwaves across the island.
On October 11th, music lovers will experience a rare, nostalgic journey as the original legends who shaped these eras, Annesley Malawana, Indrani Perera, Lankika Perera, Rukshan Perera and Chandral Fonseka share the spotlight once again. Joining them to honour this rich musical catalog are acclaimed artistes like Chitral Somapala. Return of Mangala Rodrigo of Super Golden Chimes fame after five decades will be the biggest attraction.
Providing the live backing orchestration is ‘Super Chimes Band’, dedicated to recreating the exact, period-accurate electric guitar tones, brass arrangements and rhythms that defined the 1970s sound. The evening will be anchored by legendary compere Dr. Vijaya Corea, whose voice served as the soundtrack to many of these original hit radio debuts.
For music enthusiasts, alumni, and families across Sri Lanka, ‘Echoes of Melodies’ is more than just a concert, it is a once-in-a-lifetime reunion celebrating the golden voices of a golden era.
Tickets are priced at Rs.15, 000/- 10,000/0, 7500/-, 5000/-, 3000/- and 2000/- and are available online via Ticketministry.com
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Print Edition – The Sunday Times, Sri Lanka
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