Inspired by one of India’s most picturesque regions, Navi Mumbai’s Hindi Rock band will present an original set tonight
Kashmeer rehearsing at Nightrainâu00c2u0080u00c2u0088Jamâu00c2u0080u00c2u0088Studios
Picturesque Kashmir is not only a tourist spot, it has countless layers. One of these is the long-standing dispute with Pakistan regarding the occupation of the Valley. Having appeared in films and photographs, the region is important to Indians. The intimacy is so deep that a Navi Mumbai based Alt Rock band named their group Kashmeer as tribute. They will talk about their relationship with the Valley through original music at a gig tonight.
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“It belongs to India and hence, the attachment is special. But, we have never been there. We grew fond of Kashmir through photographs. It seems to be that one place on earth, which is always beautiful. There are problems in the state but that doesn’t change the fact that it is heaven on earth. It is exactly how we want our music to be,” says vocalist and lyricist Swapnil Bhanushali, who considers Ronnie James Dio and Raghu Dixit to be inspirations.
Sounds from the vale
Kashmeer have been around for seven years but have not recorded an album until now. “We were busy playing gigs. Now, there are fewer shows, so we have started recording for an EP that will come out soon,” he adds. Their songs are about facts that influence society -- suicides, political problems, and even relationships.
“The suicide song, Yeh Aasmaan, is a motivational one. The track about relationships is called Bante Bigadte Hai Rishtey Yahan,” says the 30-year-old. They also have an abstract song that plays on the word ‘wait’ (Intezaar). “It can be waiting for a job or a friend, or a girlfriend.” But, their most prominent track till date is Kashmeer Hu Mein.
Vocalist Swapnil Bhanushali at a gig
Space jam
The band is based out of Seawoods, and its members reside in the adjoining areas of Panvel and Kharghar. There is only one jam room in the vicinity, Nightrain Jam Studios, which one needs to book in advance. “There are many musicians in the area but there isn’t a platform to play music. Nightrain is a 24x7 jam room, which is a plus. We feel it is easier to travel to Pune, which is 90 minutes away. To get to Mumbai, it takes us two hours,” he adds.
Being a Hindi band has an advantage -- it helps them bag more gigs. “Hindi is the national language of India. Though music has no language, it feels good to play in your vernacular,” says Bhanushali.
On Tonight, 8.30 pm onwards
At Hard Rock Café, Bombay Dyeing Mill Compound, Pandurang Budhkar Marg, Worli.
Call 24382888
Entry Rs500
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