Naren's indie round-up/ Nov 2024, Ep 3

BY NARENDRA KUSNUR 

Jaimin/ 7 Sins

Label: Self-released 

Rating; ****

With his 2022 album Cutting Loose, Kolkata-based Jaimin Rajani proved his mettle as a songwriter. His latest single '7 Sins' is an example of his wit and again, his charming way with words.

"I try to help myself, but God just won't help me, oh my dreams they just won't come to me, when I'm awake", he sings, while also admitting he's been hit by all the seven sins of "pride, greed and lust, wrath, sloth, envy, gluttony".

A highlight is the part by American mandolinist Patrick Fitzsimons. Guitarist and bassist Subharaj, keyboardist Arka Chakraborty, percussionist Arjun Chakraborty and classical guitar player Bibhubrata Acharjee add to the charm of this wonderful and melodic piece.

Lyla feat. Mayuresh A/ Self Lou

Label: Woodstock Music Box 

Rating; ***

Earlier this year, singer-songwriter Lyla had released her EP Bookmarks. She is now out with her new song 'Self Lou'.

The sound is pop-electronica, and composer Mayuresh A creates an ambient cinematic interlude. The words are interesting, as Lyla sings, "If I could give myself that one thing I've never had.. self lou.. lou" and "Love's just a feeling for not being hated for everything I do".

The song is accompanied by a lyrics video. The emotions are relatable to the millennials, though there's a remote connect with the tale of Snow White.

Meera/ Tiptoes

Label: Heard Music

Rating: *** 1/2

Having grown up in the suburbs of New York, Mumbai-based singer Meera has fond memories of Christmas festivities in the US. These recollections prompted her to conceive her EP A Very Meera Christmas, due for release on December 6.

The first single 'Tiptoes' has a catchy melody and pleasantly expressive vocals. The lyrics have an affectionate angle too, as Meera sings, "I'll kiss you on my tiptoes, i don't care if Santa knows, kiss you on my tiptoes, I like you and it shows". 

There are references to mistletoe, stockings, Christmas tie and a fireplace, and the background piano has a jazz influence, with production shared by Raag Sethi and Meera. Perfect for the Yuletide spirit.

Pralay/ Mahsa Amini

Label: Self-released 

Rating: ****

The story of 22-year-old Iranian woman Mahsa Amini made headlines two years ago when she died in mysterious circumstances. She had been arrested for not wearing the hijaab in the manner prescribed by the government though there were different stories about what caused her death in a Teheran hospital.

Her tragic tale inspired Mumbai band Pralay, which has been around since the 1990s, to write a song in her name. Written and composed by brothers Adam Avil and Eddie Avil, the song narrates her experience, describes the public protests and anger, and also uses words like "Don't force anyone' to spread a larger message.

The sound has a 1980s hard rock tinge, with strong vocals, harmonies and guitars sychronising well. As a political song, it hits hard.

Arish B/ Please Leave Me Alone

Label: Self-released 

Rating: ***

Arish Bhiwandiwala, who goes by the name Arish B, has released his third single 'Please Leave Me Alone', describing his own state of mind two years ago when he wanted to stay in his room.

The words are self-explanatory as Arish sings, "There are some days when I am feeling low, when I don't usually wake up until two; spend those days sitting in my room, with so much to do that I feel so consumed".

The song had been produced by Akshath. It uses a loop-styled melody with the same tune recurring in cyclical form, as the instrumentation builds up gradually. And this is one of those gorgeous cover artworks that need a special mention.