Deeply rooted in the Tamil language, Nishad G is steadily carving out a space in the independent music scene. His sonic identity fuses orchestral swells, funk grooves, filmy flair, qawwali soul, Carnatic precision, and jazz textures—shaped by a youth spent bouncing between school music groups, global stages, and cultural dualities.
Today, Nishad distills these influences into a signature sound that defies genre lines while remaining deeply personal. He’s also the voice behind The Indoencers, a music-centric podcast that reflects his taste and curiosity. Now, with Life Until 23, his debut album, Nishad offers a genre-spanning musical memoir that speaks across languages, styles, and emotions.
Following the international acclaim from his 2024 single “Vaanmugil,” Nishad G has released “Life Until 23,” a diverse musical autobiography drawing on his experiences and inspirations from cultures around the globe. This six track album features songs in Tamil and English. Each song acts as a chapter narrating pivotal moments across five distinct periods of Nishad’s journey so far.
The album opens with “Vaanani Naam,” a nostalgic, dreamlike track sung in Tamil that captures the wonder of childhood. Its moody intro and gentle vocals evoke a sense of limitless imagination. As the song unfolds, you’ll hear jazzy textures shifting seamlessly into a lush orchestral section with a surprise rock-tinged burst near the end. The transitions are smooth yet striking, making the track feel like a journey through memory. It’s a fresh, emotionally resonant opener that sets the tone for the album—intimate, inventive, and quietly powerful.
“Inbam Thedu,” the second track on the album, bursts open with playful piano trills before sliding into a lively, cinematic jazz groove. Sung in Tamil, it captures the high of pre-teen freedom. The track is a genre-blending banger, with crisp basslines, retro-style guitar riffs, and a rhythm section that keeps you moving. A standout drum solo and a soaring saxophone moment give it serious flair, followed by a rich blend of choir harmonies and a jazzy guitar solo.
The third track, “Uyir Peralaiye,” is a tender, poetic ode to first love, voiced beautifully by Chinmayi in Tamil. It opens with softness and builds into a rich, expressive arrangement that blends Carnatic nuances with orchestral depth. Nishad captures the emotional whirlwind of teenage love through delicate rhythms, playful melodies, and layered instrumentation—including tablas, bass, and subtle claps. The song moves from intimate vocals to a grand, choral-like climax.
On “Yen Ithanai“, the tone turns inward. Flute and tabla set a meditative mood as Nishad explores the existential weight of early adulthood. Featuring Vijaynarain and Rishi K, the track combines sharp vocals with deep-rooted Carnatic structures. As the song gently fades, it mirrors how such thoughts evolve—lingering, then slowly softening.
“Homecoming,” the fifth track and the first in English, marks a serene shift in rhythm and tone. Sung by Anaees and JS, this track is gentle and earthy; it reflects the adult who begins to understand what “home” really means. The track features The Indian Choral Ensemble, whose harmonies bring warmth and depth. A calming flute and subtle classical Indian instruments flow in gracefully, building to a breathtaking choral climax.
The final track, “Sunset Prayers”, closes the album with elegance and fire. Beginning with mellow acoustic notes and laid-back jazz, it evolves into a vibrant, genre-defying finale. Featuring the masterful Mohini Dey on bass and Patrick Bartley on sax, this track slinks, soars, and surprises. The ensemble crescendo is nothing short of breathtaking.
With Life Until 23, Nishad G doesn’t just deliver a debut—he delivers a vision. It’s deeply personal, musically fearless, and culturally rich. This is the sound of an artist who knows where he’s been, and more importantly, where he’s headed.
