In today’s fast-paced modern world, many traditional Thai instruments have been forgotten or overshadowed by contemporary music trends. However, the preservation of these instruments is crucial to maintaining a connection to the cultural heritage of Thailand. Kammao Perdtanon is a prominent figure in this effort, celebrated for his exceptional phin skills and his ability to blend traditional Thai sounds with contemporary music. Through his artistry, Kammao continues to celebrate and revive the beauty of Thai instruments, ensuring they remain a part of the modern musical landscape.
Today, we dive into Kammao’s journey of sharing Thai music with the world. As we take a closer look, let’s turn on his playlist and fully immerse ourselves in his melodies.
A Rising Star from Roi Et
Born in Roi Et province of Isan, Pinpetch Thipprasert, also known as Kammao Perdtanon, is a key figure in Thai music, renowned for his talent as a phin player with the Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band. Kammao began learning the phin, a traditional Thai lute, from his father at the age of two and by nine, he was performing in his neighbourhood. His early life was filled with challenges but his passion for music kept him focused.
From Isan, seeking greater opportunities in the music industry, he moved to Bangkok, releasing his first solo album and making appearances in film and television. His accolades include the Nakkaraj Thongkam. He once crafted a phin as an offering to His Majesty King Rama IX as well as the opportunity to perform for Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
The Phin Doctor’s Legacy
For Kammao, music is one of the greatest sources of healing. He holds this belief because of his father, who was once known as the Phin Doctor, using music as a form of therapy to heal others. Inspired by his father, Kammao has made it his goal to bring joy and happiness to others through his music.
Back in the day, Kammao worked as a construction labourer and crafted phins in his spare time. He also learned to master playing the instrument. When he could no longer earn a living in Roi Et, he moved to Bangkok to work as a construction labourer, bringing his cherished phin along with him. He played it to get rid of negative thoughts and during his downtime from construction work, he strummed it for anyone willing to listen. He still continues with his goal of sharing happiness with others.
From Hardships to Harmonies
One of his memorable moments is when Kammao travelled to Bangkok to look for construction work. With no money in his pocket, he was stopped and searched by the police as soon as he got off the train. Mistaking the phin for a gun, the police began to question him. In response, Kammao decided to play the instrument for them. Instead of being arrested, he ended up receiving THB 50 from the officers.
Seeking growth, Kammao learned from the respected master Thongsai Tabtanon. This mentorship helped him enhance his skills and inspired him to take on the name Kammao Perdtanon. Despite facing challenges, Kammao’s passion for the phin and his determination kept him involved in the Thai music scene.
Kammao released his first album titled Phin Rong Phleng (The Phin Sings Songs), based on his belief that the sound of the phin could “vocalise” in place of a singer. His songs include Hug Sao Khon Kaen, Chom Thung, Tang Thao Tai and Bow Rak Si Dam, highlighting the essence of Thainess and capturing the rich tradition of the phin. However, the album was not commercially successful. Despite this, Kammao had the opportunity to play for several famous singers.
The Sound of the Phin and Khaen: Connecting Communities Through Music
In 2013 he joined the Paradise Bangkok Molam International which blends traditional Isan instruments like the phin and khaen (Isan mouth organ) with Western elements such as electric guitars and drums. This music helped many in the Thai community living abroad feel connected to their cultural roots and it became a hit with Thais living in Europe and Europeans passionate about Thai culture and new sounds. Their songs are often heard at international restaurants across Europe. Even with their busy lives, the Thais there cherish their traditional Isan heritage and the harmonious sounds of the phin and khaen evoke a sense of nostalgia for the band and what it represents.
The Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band brings a distinctive Western twist to their music, incorporating elements of krautrock and disco while infusing traditional Thai sounds. Their tracks such as Lam San Disco, Sao Sakit Mae and Kwang Noi Chaolay reflect an eclectic mix that resonates with a global audience.
Jimi Hendrix of the Phin
As the phin player for the Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band, he has performed at numerous music festivals across Europe. One of the major events where they will showcase the sounds of the phin and khaen from Isan is at the Glastonbury Festival in England, one of the largest and most renowned music festivals in the world, in 2016.
Kammao was given the name Jimi Hendrix of the Phin by music listeners and concert promoters in the West, reflecting his presence as a frontman on the stage. He casts a spell with the sounds of the Isan phin, moving gracefully and naturally, exuding joy as he releases the music from his soul.
Teaching the Next Generation
Nowadays, Kammao goes by the name Kammao Phiprainn, with his last name chaged to mean Indra’s phin as he believes the instrument he plays is not his but belongs to the god Indra. As Kammao continues to perform and teach the phin to the younger generation, he dreams of creating new music that blends Isan sounds with contemporary influences. He plays music in hospitals to help heal patients, continuing his father’s legacy and belief. Kammao also participates in many shows to advocate for Thai instruments. He hopes to inspire young people to embrace their heritage while experimenting with the influences of modern society.
