Naren's indie round-up/ Aug 2022, Ep 4

BY NARENDRA KUSNUR

Brodha V feat. Niharika NM/ Bujjima

Label: Self-released 

Rating: ****

One of the most consistent hip-hop artistes in India, Brodha V talks about toxic relationships in his new song 'Bujjima'. The video, created by Inflict, is a spoof set in a courtroom.

There are direct digs at the Joker and Harley Quinn, Will Smith and Chris Rock, Johnny Depp and Amber Heard, besides subtle parts hinting at rapper Emiway. Niharika NM plays the female lead, and a host of characters fill up the plot.

The tune sticks to you, as Brodha sings, "Bujjima crazy like Annabelle, you was a savage like animal, we was just never compatible, Bujjima, Bujjima". And the more you watch the video, the funnier it gets.

Nikhita Gandhi & Siddhant Bhosle/ Tu Hi Bata

Label: Self-released 

Rating: ***

Singer Nikhita Gandhi, who's been quite prolific in Bollywood of late, teams up with Siddhant Bhosle on the independent single 'Tu Hi Bata'. They had earlier worked together on 'Din Aur Raatein'.

The interesting thing is the way the song alternates between Hindi and English, with Shloke Lal helping out in lyrics. It's got a pleasant melody, good hook and tight two-part harmonies, reminiscent of the doo-wop style heard internationally. However, some Hindi words like 'ittefaq' and 'sitaron' sound awkward because of the accent.

Siddharth Ahuja's video looks good for a minute, after which the same angles and steps are repeated. Some variety would have helped. But it's a sweet song, and that's what matters.

Kutle Khan/ Jhirmir

Label: Self-released

Rating: *** 1/2

The first thing that one notices about Rajasthani Manganiyar musician Kutle Khan is his incredible vocal range. It's evident yet again on the live version of his track 'Jhirmir', part of his upcoming album.

Produced by Gaurav Raina of MidiVal Punditz, the track is high on energy, with marvellous flute, sarangi and rabab. The drumming, keyboards and back-up vocals add to the vibe. The video seems like an extension of Coke Studio, but that's the case with most live captures.

Kutle aims to release a series of singles blending Rajasthani folk with electronica. 'Jhirmir' is a good beginning, as it's something one can dance to.

Khanabadosh/ Mumkin Nahin

Label: Self-released

Rating: ****

Khanabadosh, a Hindi alt-rock band from Udaipur, has earlier released the songs 'Kaala Dil' and 'Bayaan'. Their latest single 'Mumkin Nahin' is about two people who try to come to terms with a broken relationship.

Composed, written and sung by Gaurav Solanki, this is one of those slow-burn tracks that grows on repeated listening. The song impresses with lines like, "Lautega dil agar phir kabhi, kya hai wajaah mumkin nahin; Ghoomenge hum phir saath mein, rasta wahin pe, hum nahin".

The song is backed by a fabulous black n white video by Solestray Films. Starring RJ Milind and Sakshi Yadav, it alternates shots in a train compartment with scenes at historical locations. Burhan Habshee's cinematography is worth commending.

Big Bang Blues/ She Reminds Me Of You

Label: Self-released 

Rating: *** 1/2

Two months ago, Delhi band Big Bang Blues released the single 'Love Of A Mother'. In quick succession, they're out with 'She Reminds Me Of You'.

The song reminds you of Abbey Road era Beatles, with its clear melody and tempo shifts. Vocalist Diyatom Deb shines as he talks of being reminded of someone, ending with the line "I don't want to see you anymore". Get the drift?

Guitarist Sushant Thakur comes up with a neat solo, and bassist Archit Agarwal and drummer Naman Dutta are strong on the rhythm section. It's a tight song, composed and performed with class.