Naren's indie round-up/ Dec 2023, Ep 2


BY NARENDRA KUSNUR

The Tapi Project/ Mehsoos

Label: Self-released 

Rating: ****

Formed in 2014, The Tapi Project have a very eclectic and refreshing sound, driven by Yogendra Saniyawala's compositions and Swati Minaxi's distinct vocal delivery. Their new track 'Mehsoos' has a beautiful build-up and grows on repeat listening.

Yogendra's guitars and Biju Nambiar's keyboards provide a cinematic layering, and Gaurav Kapadia's sudden bursts of drumming lend a twist. Written by Yogendra himself, the song talks about finding beauty and love in small things.

The way the song changes direction is admirable. Towards the end, Swati's powerful line 'Mehsoos kiya kya' is followed by a great interaction between keyboards, drums, guitars and ambient textures, leaving the listener on a high.

Prithviraj Singh Sisodiya feat. Nitisha Agrawal/ Manwa

Promoted by: ForeVision Digital

Rating: *** 1/2

Indore singer Prithviraj Singh Sisodiya's talent is evident once again on 'Manwa', which he sings in a folk-laced style. Nitisha Agrawal's lyrics have a rustic flavour but are also simple to relate to. 

The song begins, "Manwa, mora nahin maane re, manwa, ab kahin na laage re, manwa, tere peeche bhaage re, apne piya ke daras ko taras re mora, manwa". 

Gaurav Nagor's slide guitar provides a refreshing interlude. Prithviraj's effortless delivery boosts the tune.

Yadnesh Raikar, Pratik Srivastav and Anuj Danait/ Hiraeth

Label: Y Strings Entertainment 

Rating: *** 1/2

The son of violinist Milind Raikar, young Yadnesh Raikar is carrying forward the tradition. He has now teamed up with sarod player Pratik Srivastav and multi-faceted Anuj Danait on 'Hiraeth', the title track from his forthcoming global fusion album.

The musicians blend beautifully over the melodious and relaxing tune. Production credits are shared by Yadnesh and Udit Arun Saprarshi. We're looking forward to the other tunes on the album.

Aamir Rizvi/ Under The Sheets

Label: Self-released 

Rating: ****

There's a certain sincerity that comes across in Kolkata singer-songwriter Aamir Rizvi's songs. We noticed that in tunes like 'Over' and 'always/ on my mind', and it's again apparent on his latest release 'Under The Sheets'.

It's a pleasant acoustic number with gentle guitars and rhythms. Aamir has a wonderful vocal texture, which goes with the composition. The song looks back on an earlier relationship, blending nostalgia with hope.

The lines go, "It took me a while to realise thar we're not what we used to be; some part of me still thinks that you and I can make it out so; I maybe it's time I go, I think I don't belong, I'm sure you'd be happier". Simple, yet honest.

Shaan Kambli/ Denim Blues 

Label: Self-released 

Rating: *** 1/2

Featured in Nexa Season One and Sunburn, singer-songwriter Shaan Kambli is out with his new single 'Denim Blues'. It's a catchy song with a supple beat, and has a hook that lingers.

Just over three minutes long, it has lines like, "Denim Blues you got me counting the things I want to do to you, let so loose that even the belt round your waist ain't oo-oo-oo". Good for the club or on a drive.

Earlier this year, Kambli has released the tracks 'Cosmetic Love' and 'Back Into U'. It's been a prolific ride.



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