As metalheads gather this weekend in a tribute act for a deceased rocker, we explore the nascent scene in Mumbai’s extended suburbs
Emergency Trigger at a gig
On most days, thirty-two-year old Nelson Kharat comes across as the stereotypical IT professional for an MNC in Pune. But hiding within the former Ambernath-resident is a rocker who leads the vocals for the Suburban Music Project. Tell him that it sounds like a scene out of Farhan Akhtar’s 2008 film Rock On, and he laughs. Since 2015, Kharat’s project has been part of a community of indie rockers in the eastern suburbs beyond Thane.
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Anand Iyer AKA Andy of Darcligt
“It is a myth that the genre only thrives in town (South Mumbai) or Bandra,” he notes. This weekend, the vocalist is organising The Korrupted Fest 2023 in Kalyan as a tribute to fellow metal head, Anuj Mahadik, who passed away in 2019. “He was an ardent metalhead and a keen supporter. We held a tribute concert in 2019 in Dombivli. This is our second edition post the pandemic,” the vocalist reveals. The event on Sunday will witness six bands — all from the suburbs from Thane to Ambernath — perform together.
Underground rock
Incidentally, the extended suburbs have had a history of rock bands and talents such as Moksh and Infernal Wrath that emerged in the early 2000s. Kharat shares that in 2011, he would often travel to gigs at now-shut Blue Frog, and catch the last train back home.
Sid Thomas
“There are only a few venues in the region that host this genre,” says Evan Shimron, drummer for Emergency Trigger. A research analyst, Shimron also hails from Ambernath. “We [Emergency Trigger] started our journey with a festival at Father Agnel’s Engineering College in Vashi. Now, few colleges in the suburbs host rock bands, even in Mumbai.”
For Sid Thomas, lead vocalist of Rotten Kitten, it has always been the case. “There is not much of a metal scene in the suburbs, but there are a number of talented bands emerging,” says the 24-year-old sales manager and Pantera fan.
Band-ing together
Is it any surprise then that we all formed a close-knit community, asks Kharat. “If you are a rock fan or musician in the suburbs, we know you. No matter where a band plays, we turn up to encourage them,” he says.
“Networking is everything when it comes to music. It is easy because everyone in the community is supportive,” Thomas says. Most bands have known each other for a long time. Shimron recalls sharing commutes on the train and bus with other bands. “We would compete against each other in college fests, and then take the train back home. We have carried each other’s instruments, shared gear,” he remarks.
The Suburban Music Project in action
Anand Iyer aka Andy, guitarist frontman of Darcligt explains, “In Mumbai, despite Bollywood, an independent musician has avenues. Beyond Thane, it is a challenge. This is why community becomes important.”
There is also a lack of audience involvement in these suburbs. While attendance is growing, the musicians admit that it fades in comparison to Mumbai. “It is still an indie scene. Few people are aware of the genre of music or gigs,” says Iyer. Kharat remarks that most of their gigs in the past hardly broke even. “There were barely 50 people in attendance. Most lounges and clubs focus on Bollywood music. Why would people try rock or metal when the return is low?”
Genre revival
Evan Shimron
However, times are a changing. The recent years have offered enough proof of an emerging audience base. There is a new generation willing to experiment with new genres. Kharat admits that this is the first time they have charged a minimal entrance fee for the festival. “With more gigs taking place in the suburbs, it might draw in more audiences, and thereby, spread the word. That is what we hope,” Thomas adds. With a host of local metalheads on display, the Sunday show will be proof of an emerging revolution in suburbia.
On: July 30; 6 pm onwards
At: Music Mafia Lounge, First Floor, Orbit Commercial Complex, Khadakpada, Kalyan West.
Log on to: skillboxes.com
Cost: Rs 300
Bands from MMR
>> Ailaan (Kalyan)
>> Moksh (Thane)
>> Infernal Wrath (Ambernath)
>> Vinod B Project (Kalyan)
>> Akruti (Kalyan)
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