This edition of Spotlight showcases music that thrives on distinctiveness. From intricate genre blends to bold creative choices, these tracks stand out for their originality and depth. Whether it’s a reimagined folk classic, progressive rock with a modern edge, or a hip-hop track challenging conventions, each song brings something unexpected to the table. Let’s dive in :
1. Somewhere in the west – Ankit Shreshta
Nepal’s leading singer-songwriter Ankit Shreshta’s ‘Somewhere in the West’ is the fifth single from his upcoming album, Naya Din. It captures a sense of distance and nostalgia, reflecting Ankit’s experiences and observations during his travels. Its introspective lyrics and mellow, cinematic arrangement paint a vivid picture of the yearning and isolation often felt by those living far from home. The accompanying music video will enhance this theme, using visual storytelling to emphasize the song’s narrative and its emotional depth.
2. Yeh Raat – IshaSom
The musical Duo, thriving from the capital city experiments with Hindustani classical & folk music, fusing it with various styles and global genres. ‘YEH RAAT’ – incorporates elements of jazz with indie acoustic pop genre. It captures the sound that makes you vibrate of positive energy and happiness.
3. Helicopter Man – Deep Dawn
Auroville based band Deep Dawn’s energetic fusion of Blues, Funk, Rock, Hip-Hop, and Psychedelic vibes have bought together their latest offering ‘Helicopter Man’. Built around strong guitar riffs, catchy rhythms, and a live, raw energy that captures the band’s unique style.
4. What Sets Us Free – Siddharth Basrur
Mumbai based vocalist, composer, and playback singer Siddharth Basrur’s ‘What Sets Us Free’ is a bold alt-pop, alt-rock track drawing inspiration from iconic bands like Tears for Fears, the song features a powerhouse vocalist, delivering an electrifying performance that stands out in a landscape dominated by singer-songwriter acoustic styles. In a time when most releases feel restrained, What Sets Us Free is a refreshing and powerful anthem of liberation, with a sound that will resonate deeply with listeners looking for something dynamic and unapologetic.
5. X-Ray Machine – Shalaka
Los Angeles based indie pop and alternative artist Shalaka’s ‘X Ray Machine’ explores the complexities of wanting to see beyond the surface in relationships, backed by an infectious melody and introspective lyrics. “‘X Ray Machine’ is about those moments where you wish you could really see into someone’s mind and understand what they’re feeling,” Shalaka explains.
6. Vichitra – Sweet Mint
Sweet Mint, an emerging progressive rock band based in Mumbai, India have released their debut single, ‘Vichitra’. The soundscape blends intricate rhythms, complex time signatures, and atmospheric melodies that define progressive rock, with a modern edge that appeals to a wide range of listeners.
7. Urban Control – The Sandcats
The Sandcats are an upcoming indie alt rock band from Bangalore, India. They blend 2000s garage rock, post-punk and modern pop to create music that digs deep beneath the surface. ‘Urban Control’ is all about feeling stuck in the middle of modern city life and the strange, surreal forces that come with it. The song dives into the struggles of navigating a world shaped by capitalism—where gentrified buildings, automated routines, and curated realities control everything. The lyrics paint a picture of that friction between personal truths and the overwhelming pressures of urban life.
8. Paper Boats- Swati Bhatt
New Delhi-based, Raipur-bred singer-songwriter Swati Bhatt’s ‘Paper Boats’ is the third and final track from the EP ‘Embrace’. The song is a fresh adaptation of Rabindranath Tagore’s timeless poem that captures the universal desire to be found, to be understood and to belong. Combining traditional storytelling with Bhatt’s folk-jazz influences, lush harmonies, plucky guitar, and gentle percussion, she creates a dreamy vibe that makes you feel like you’re drifting on a rowing boat.
9. Roothe Piya- Ashish Zachariah, Aditi Raj
‘Roothe Piya’ by Ashish Zachariah and Aditi Raj truly captures the essence of longing and heartache. The lyrics revolve around the emotional vulnerability of wondering why a loved one might be upset, blending with a lighthearted, almost whimsical production style by Ashish, which contrasts with the intensity of the theme.
Aditi Raj’s vocals add a hauntingly beautiful layer, enhancing the song’s atmosphere with a sense of depth and mystique that complements its theme.
10. Ratna Mahal” by Derek & The Cats
“Ratna Mahal” is a Funk-Jazz Fusion tribute to the quirks and charm of the humble Indian hotels that become landmarks in the lives of touring musicians. Inspired by the band’s stay at a hotel of the same name during their debut tour, the track captures the nostalgia, humor, and camaraderie of life on the road. Recorded live in one take, this single showcases the seamless chemistry of Derek & the Cats.
11. 10 kmh – Dot., Mary Ann, Kambli
“10kmh” is a contemplative and richly textured collaboration between Dot., Mary Ann Alexander, and Kambli that explores the concept of mental slowness and creative stagnation. The track beautifully translates moments of ‘brain fog’ and reflective inertia into an artful blend of poignant lyrics and immersive soundscapes. Dot.’s intimate storytelling, Mary Ann’s introspective vocals, and Kambli’s nuanced production work together to create an atmospheric piece that ebbs and flows with subtle contrasts, embodying the paradox of finding clarity through creative slowness.
12. Khayeko Kasam- Aabishkar Thatal
Singer-songwriter Aabishkar Thatal, based in Sikkim, reimagines his debut single “Khayeko Kasam” with a fresh take recorded live at The Record Room in Gangtok. The song, inspired by the innocence and promise of young love, reflects on the beauty of holding onto vows in a relationship, no matter the distance. With heartfelt lyrics and a tender, melodic arrangement, this version captures the fleeting yet profound emotions of adolescence, blending folk and indie influences for an intimate and nostalgic listening experience.
13. manchild, Vol. 2- MC Snub
Delhi-based hip-hop artist MC Snub, delivers a powerful statement with the title track Manchild from his latest EP, blending sharp wit, introspection, and raw vulnerability. The song dives into the complexities of masculinity and personal growth, using a mix of Hindi and English to explore societal expectations and inner battles. With evocative lyrics and innovative production, Manchild challenges toxic stereotypes while embracing self-reflection and accountability, making it a compelling anthem.
14. Silent Days- Anhad + Tanner
North Carolina’s Tanner & New Delhi’s Anhad bring together their title track of the EP Silent Days, a poignant blend of neoclassical textures and electronic soundscapes, enriched by soulful Hindustani vocals. Drawing from their diverse backgrounds in Indian classical and Western music, the duo crafts a hauntingly beautiful piece that anchors their signature fusion of evocative Indian instrumentation and intricate synth work.
15. DESTROYER- Bodhi and the Omega Force
Bodhi and the Omega Force kick off their journey with Destroyer, a powerful instrumental tribute to Lord Shiva. Blending progressive rock and metal with the soul of Raga Bhairav and Raga Bhairavi, the track channels destruction and renewal through fiery riffs and haunting melodies. Paired with a stunning music video by Shan Bhattacharya, Destroyer is an electrifying celebration of cosmic energy and raw musical power.
