This is Billboard India’s weekly Editorial series No Skip. Every Monday, we tell you exactly what to listen to – songs handpicked by the Billboard India team from last week’s crop of music releases. Tracks from Indian artists across film, indie, regional and the diaspora community are eligible.
Below are this week’s No Skip selections to kick off your week right.
- “Omale.” by Pina Colada Blues, Navoca
This Malayalam indie-pop track composed and produced by Pina Colada Blues features Navoca on vocals and has lyrics by Abhiram Jitendra. The song is about carrying someone’s presence with you long after they’ve left. The upbeat groove of the track is complemented by Navoca’s sweet crooning and the brief saxophone parts.
- “Saath” by Sachet-Parampara, Sachet Tandon, Parampara Tandon, Kausar Munir
The composer-singer duo has produced a duet with classical vocalising and a harmonium that lends melody throughout. The heartfelt lyrics are contrasted by a deft beat that doesn’t get too unnecessarily sanctimonious. The tabla work in the interlude adds a compelling textural touch.
- “Hangova” by Anirudh Ravichander, Heisenberg
This song feels like walking into a jazz bar from the future where Tamil compositions come together over tropical beats. Ravichander has contributed keys, synths and the rhythm section to the track. The horns section is contributed by That Boy Franco aka Francis Akwuba-Charles. This is an official soundtrack from the upcoming Tamil film DC, starring Lokesh Kanagaraj and Wamiqa Gabbi.
- “Makkar” by Ramil Ganjoo
An indie-folk ballad, this is the titular track from Ganjoo’s new EP. The female harmonies by Alvina D’Souza, the accordion rhythm and guitar-picking style are endearing elements. Ganjoo has also employed sparse kick drums, subtle keys and lead guitar as a testament to an eclectic less-is-more production philosophy.
- “Bewajah” by KhoslaRaghu
This one’s a track you can belt out the lyrics to. Handclaps, a sufi bent in melody, rock-esque guitar and rhythm – it’s anthemic is a way indi-pop or rock hasn’t been for some time. A full-bodied composition with robust vocals and stomping instrumental bass, it closes with a full choir and electric lead guitar.
