Have you ever pondered about what makes your identity, during a moment of self-reflection or while thinking of the world? Assuming that many of us have, isn’t it regional languages that form a predominant part of who we are and where we come from? With a similar belief, Alva Kuuto, literally meaning ‘Alva’s Collective/Group’(referring to Praveen Alva, the founding member), was formed in 2022 with an objective to take Tulu, a 2500-year-old Dravidian language, to diverse stages and platforms. Adding a new feather to their cap, this Bengaluru-based folk rock outfit consisting of Praveen Alva on vocals, Anshuman Upadhyay on drums, Abhilash Shet on bass/backing vocals, and Siddharth Pradeep(replaced by Shashank Kandachar) on lead guitars, has released their debut self-titled album comprising 8 tracks, which has been produced by Varun Murali from The Red Music Box.
Groove Meets Grace
In a world where only certain languages often take the lead, Alva Kuuto breaks the mould by making a 2500-year-old Dravidian language the true storyteller. This Tulu-language album might be unfamiliar to the ears of many outside the coastal belt of Karnataka, but its music speaks fluently in rhythm and mood. A tasty brew of mild funk and strong flavour of rock, Alva Kuuto is an immersive experience, whether or not you understand the lyrics.
Funk, Fire, and Fluidity
Right from the opening track Ashana, the album pulls you in with vibrant grooves that feel like sunshine on a dance floor. It’s followed by Gongey, a track that returns to that same energy, brimming with rhythm and life, effortlessly making your head nod and your feet tap. Tracks like Kaluvey, Pukkele, and Vogat continue this theme, forming the groovy backbone of the album. There’s a sense of cohesion in how these tracks deliver a funky feel throughout.
A Gentle Embrace
In contrast to its groovy core, Alva Kuuto also knows when to slow down. Take for instance, Ee and Thedil, that bring in minimalist arrangements and soft melodies, almost like whispered stories under moonlight. These tracks offer breathing space- a moment of stillness where emotion is distilled in every note. They’re the kind of songs you don’t just listen to, but feel in the silences between the instruments.
Untamed Rock Vibes
Then comes Pageyta Pugey, a rock-driven track that stands apart with its gritty intensity and raw edge. It’s bold, brash, and beautifully chaotic. Sandwiched between a rebellious implication and rhythmic inflection, this track punches through the album’s flow like a clenched fist in motion. It’s a reminder that Alva Kuuto isn’t confined to groove or calm, it embraces sonic extremes, unapologetically and without borders.
A Sonic Journey Beyond Words
Alva Kuuto reminds us that you don’t need to speak the language to feel the music. Sung in Tulu, a culturally rich yet endangered tongue, it carries emotions that resonate far beyond words. Each track brings its own flavour- some make you move, some make you reflect, and some do both.
Final Thoughts
In the end, it can be deduced that Alva Kutto isn’t just a collection of songs, it’s a soundscape of moods that can make you reminiscent of when you first discovered Avial, Black Letters, or Motherjane(you’re getting my point, right?). Whether you’re here for the groove, the softness, or the fire, there’s a rhythm in this album that’s bound to sync with your soul.
