Catch a gig with Pune fusion band 'Riyaaz' in Rude Lounge tonight

In 2008, Pakistan-based music producer Rohail Hyatt found the country's best talent and created waves with his mesmerising Coke Studio sessions.

The popularity of the show trickled across the border and music enthusiasts in India couldn't stop streaming the episodes online. It inspired many to pick up the guitar and sing. Riyaaz -- a five-piece band from Pune -- is a creation of the same epoch. The Fusion group will demonstrate their brand of Folk and Sufi music at a gig tonight.

Road to Sufi
Earlier, members of Riyaaz played in different groups, trying to discover their sound. The band is a blend of musicians who thought alike. "When we realised we all love Sufi and Folk, we got together and formed this group in 2016," says Govind Agarwal, the rhythm guitarist.

Besides Coke Studio, the band is inspired by Amit Trivedi, Raghu Dixit, Indian Ocean, Kabir Cafe, Lagori, Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. "We also love Amit Trivedi and Mame Khan from India, but there are a lot of quality tracks from Pakistan's version of the hit music show," he adds.

Songs for the night
The boys are going to take the nostalgic route at their concert. They will relive the last decade by playing covers of the Lahore-based group, Jal, who were all the rage in the early 2000s. "We will be playing Dil Haare and Panchhee. Other than that, we have versions of Khari Khari (Trivedi) and Lal Meri Pat -- the iconic Sufi track," says the 25-year-old.

When not playing covers, Riyaaz also writes their songs, which are largely satirical. "You call this genre Comedy Rock. It is a mockery of the evil side of our society. We have a song called Nalayak which talks about failures but also, the scope to return to normal. Zaalim Pari is written to describe life after marriage," chuckles Govind.

On Tonight, 8 pm
At Rude Lounge, 6th Floor, Link House, Near Toyota Showroom, Link Road, Chichkoli Bunder, Malad (W).
Call 7738892804
Free