By Spandan Fulkar
23rd Feb 2024
By Spandan Fulkar
23rd Feb 2024
Imagine closing your eyes and being transported back to the simplicity of childhood, where the gentle sounds of a flowing river soothe your soul and bring a sense of peace. Much like the meditative music found on YouTube, there's a new song called "Nadi" by Ishaan, known by his artist name ‘Indus’, that captures that same essence of tranquility. As you listen to "Nadi" with closed eyes, you'll find yourself immersed in memories of a time when life was easy and pure. The song's melodic flow, reminiscent of flowing water, evokes a sense of calmness that washes over you like a gentle stream. But it's when you watch the music video for "Nadi" that you truly understand Ishaan's intention behind the track. Through visuals, he paints a nostalgic portrait of childhood innocence, reminding us of a time when the world seemed brighter and troubles felt far away.
During our conversation with 'Ishaan' we delved into his musical journey and aspirations as he shared insights into his creative process and the influences that shape his distinctive sound. As 'Indus' opened up about his footsteps in music, it became evident that his passion for the art form runs deep. From the early stages of his career to his current endeavors as he expressed a commitment to authenticity and evolution in his craft. Through our dialogue, it became clear that 'Indus' is not just a musician but a storyteller, using his music to connect with listeners on a profound level.
Melodic Tranquillity
In Ishaan’s musical world diversity and experimentation are the guiding stars illuminating his path. His journey unfolds with influences from Hindi, English, and Bengali cultures, reflecting his vibrant heritage and eclectic tastes. Rooted in the traditions of Hindustani Classical music, Ishaan's vocals carry a nuanced, semi-classical resonance, imbuing his compositions with depth and emotion. From his earliest days, he found solace and inspiration in the stirring melodies of alt-rock icons like Switchfoot and Coldplay, channeling their passion into his own musical explorations. As a self-taught guitarist, Ishaan's journey of discovery led him to the soulful narratives of singer-songwriters such as John Mayer and Ben Howard, whose lyrical depth resonated deeply within him. Each chord progression, each riff, became a vessel for his creative expression, a canvas upon which he painted his emotions and experiences. Embracing the modern era, Ishaan has ventured into the electronic realm, experimenting with the intricate textures of Logic Pro. From the melodic intricacies of Ben Böhmer to the genre-defying sounds of Daft Punk, he finds inspiration in the boundless possibilities of contemporary music but Ishaan and his inspirations stay rooted in the rich tapestry of the Indian indie scene, drawing inspiration from the likes of Oaff, Mali, and Mitraaz.
Finding Myself
In reflecting on the genesis of his first song, Ishaan reminisces about September 2015, his final year at the National Institute of Design in Ahmedabad. Stricken with jaundice during a campus outbreak, he found himself abruptly sent home to Calcutta, where his mother resided at the time. Days blurred into a feverish haze, his body weakened, his eyes and skin tinged yellow. Isolated from the world, he lay in bed, grappling with the solitude of his enforced confinement, a personal lockdown preceding the global pandemic. In those solitary moments, the absence of loved ones weighed heavily on Ishaan's heart, inspiring the birth of "Finding Myself." The song, an ode to self-discovery, emerged effortlessly during his slow journey to recovery. In his introspection, he recognized the profound impact of his relationships, the guiding influence of those who shared his path.
“Finding Myself’ really captured that feeling for me. Looking back, it'll always hold a special place in my heart, it was the first piece of music I ever shared with the world. It'll forever remind me of the incredible people I'm grateful to have in my life. But as time has passed, I've noticed my sound evolving significantly. My newer music is crafted from a different inspiration, a different energy.”
Imagine closing your eyes and being transported back to the simplicity of childhood, where the gentle sounds of a flowing river soothe your soul and bring a sense of peace. Much like the meditative music found on YouTube, there's a new song called "Nadi" by Ishaan, known by his artist name ‘Indus’, that captures that same essence of tranquility. As you listen to "Nadi" with closed eyes, you'll find yourself immersed in memories of a time when life was easy and pure. The song's melodic flow, reminiscent of flowing water, evokes a sense of calmness that washes over you like a gentle stream. But it's when you watch the music video for "Nadi" that you truly understand Ishaan's intention behind the track. Through visuals, he paints a nostalgic portrait of childhood innocence, reminding us of a time when the world seemed brighter and troubles felt far away.
During our conversation with 'Ishaan' we delved into his musical journey and aspirations as he shared insights into his creative process and the influences that shape his distinctive sound. As 'Indus' opened up about his footsteps in music, it became evident that his passion for the art form runs deep. From the early stages of his career to his current endeavors as he expressed a commitment to authenticity and evolution in his craft. Through our dialogue, it became clear that 'Indus' is not just a musician but a storyteller, using his music to connect with listeners on a profound level.
Melodic Tranquillity
In Ishaan’s musical world diversity and experimentation are the guiding stars illuminating his path. His journey unfolds with influences from Hindi, English, and Bengali cultures, reflecting his vibrant heritage and eclectic tastes. Rooted in the traditions of Hindustani Classical music, Ishaan's vocals carry a nuanced, semi-classical resonance, imbuing his compositions with depth and emotion. From his earliest days, he found solace and inspiration in the stirring melodies of alt-rock icons like Switchfoot and Coldplay, channeling their passion into his own musical explorations. As a self-taught guitarist, Ishaan's journey of discovery led him to the soulful narratives of singer-songwriters such as John Mayer and Ben Howard, whose lyrical depth resonated deeply within him. Each chord progression, each riff, became a vessel for his creative expression, a canvas upon which he painted his emotions and experiences. Embracing the modern era, Ishaan has ventured into the electronic realm, experimenting with the intricate textures of Logic Pro. From the melodic intricacies of Ben Böhmer to the genre-defying sounds of Daft Punk, he finds inspiration in the boundless possibilities of contemporary music but Ishaan and his inspirations stay rooted in the rich tapestry of the Indian indie scene, drawing inspiration from the likes of Oaff, Mali, and Mitraaz.
Finding Myself
In reflecting on the genesis of his first song, Ishaan reminisces about September 2015, his final year at the National Institute of Design in Ahmedabad. Stricken with jaundice during a campus outbreak, he found himself abruptly sent home to Calcutta, where his mother resided at the time. Days blurred into a feverish haze, his body weakened, his eyes and skin tinged yellow. Isolated from the world, he lay in bed, grappling with the solitude of his enforced confinement, a personal lockdown preceding the global pandemic. In those solitary moments, the absence of loved ones weighed heavily on Ishaan's heart, inspiring the birth of "Finding Myself." The song, an ode to self-discovery, emerged effortlessly during his slow journey to recovery. In his introspection, he recognized the profound impact of his relationships, the guiding influence of those who shared his path.
“Finding Myself’ really captured that feeling for me. Looking back, it'll always hold a special place in my heart, it was the first piece of music I ever shared with the world. It'll forever remind me of the incredible people I'm grateful to have in my life. But as time has passed, I've noticed my sound evolving significantly. My newer music is crafted from a different inspiration, a different energy.”
Musical Aspirations
Ishaan's aspirations are crystal clear and he desires to share more of his music with the world and to grace live stages with his performances. His ultimate goal is to reach a wider audience and witness firsthand their reactions to his songs. The attraction of singing for Bollywood holds a very special place in his heart, a dream that resonates deeply with both his inner child and his mother. Throughout his musical journey, Ishaan has discovered a recurring theme, the transformation of pain into art and his lyrics often revolve around themes of hope, belief, and change, reflecting his personal experiences and inner struggles and each his song follows a trajectory of redemption, with the music building towards a crescendo of transformation and renewal.
“For me, the culmination of a song isn't just an ending but a testament to the strength of faith and resilience. In my music, I find redemption, more like a guiding light through life's trials and tribulations.”
Genesis of "Nadi"
In discussing his latest release, "Nadi," Ishaan offers a glimpse into the creative process behind the track and how it unfolds as a poignant coming-of-age anthem, delving into the intricate nuances of emotional and psychological metamorphosis from childhood to adulthood. It delicately weaves through recollections of innocence lost, the complexities and layers of attraction and love, and the seismic shifts in responsibilities and priorities that accompany the journey of maturation. At its core, the song poses a profound question that as we evolve alongside the relentless river of time, do we inevitably become strangers to ourselves?
“Nadi ye na rukegi, Iski Tarah hum bhi beh chalein”
Penned around 2017, during Ishaan’s inaugural foray into the professional life, this lyrical masterpiece serves as a mirror to his own transformative experiences. Embracing the mantle of self-reliance and embarking on a shared journey with his then-girlfriend, the song emerged as a deeply personal introspection of a private reckoning with the inexorable passage of time. In its verses, Ishaan grapples with the fleeting nature of existence, acknowledging that, like a river's unyielding current, time waits for no one.
“I teamed up with the producer duo Burudu to bring "Nadi" to life, and I couldn't be happier with how the production mirrors the song's emotional journey. We tried crafting a blend of acoustic pop with chill beats and vibrant flute samples, infused with contemporary electronica, setting the stage for the introspective exploration ahead. The music video also turned out amazing and as we wanted to capture the essence of childhood, so we filmed a group of friends spending a day together, reliving their youthful innocence. As we filmed, it felt like we were transported back to our own carefree days.”
Artistic Sensibilities
In peek into Ishaan's creative process makes us understand that melodies and riffs aren't just passing thoughts but vibrant threads waiting to be woven into songs. His mind buzzes with random tunes and rhythms and each one a potential gem that he captures in voice notes before they slip away. These snippets of melody take root in Ishaan's consciousness, evolving over days until he retreats to Logic, where they flourish into fully-fledged compositions. Layer by layer, he crafts each element to complement the foundation laid by his initial musings. But when it comes to lyrics, Ishaan's approach is just as organic. Guided by his compositions or inspired by themes found within his notes, he weaves words into melodies as a reflection of his innermost thoughts and emotions. As a student of design, Ishaan's artistic sensibilities extend beyond music, informing his creative process in unexpected ways.
Musical Aspirations
Ishaan's aspirations are crystal clear and he desires to share more of his music with the world and to grace live stages with his performances. His ultimate goal is to reach a wider audience and witness firsthand their reactions to his songs. The attraction of singing for Bollywood holds a very special place in his heart, a dream that resonates deeply with both his inner child and his mother. Throughout his musical journey, Ishaan has discovered a recurring theme, the transformation of pain into art and his lyrics often revolve around themes of hope, belief, and change, reflecting his personal experiences and inner struggles and each his song follows a trajectory of redemption, with the music building towards a crescendo of transformation and renewal.
“For me, the culmination of a song isn't just an ending but a testament to the strength of faith and resilience. In my music, I find redemption, more like a guiding light through life's trials and tribulations.”
Genesis of "Nadi"
In discussing his latest release, "Nadi," Ishaan offers a glimpse into the creative process behind the track and how it unfolds as a poignant coming-of-age anthem, delving into the intricate nuances of emotional and psychological metamorphosis from childhood to adulthood. It delicately weaves through recollections of innocence lost, the complexities and layers of attraction and love, and the seismic shifts in responsibilities and priorities that accompany the journey of maturation. At its core, the song poses a profound question that as we evolve alongside the relentless river of time, do we inevitably become strangers to ourselves?
“Nadi ye na rukegi, Iski Tarah hum bhi beh chalein”
Penned around 2017, during Ishaan’s inaugural foray into the professional life, this lyrical masterpiece serves as a mirror to his own transformative experiences. Embracing the mantle of self-reliance and embarking on a shared journey with his then-girlfriend, the song emerged as a deeply personal introspection of a private reckoning with the inexorable passage of time. In its verses, Ishaan grapples with the fleeting nature of existence, acknowledging that, like a river's unyielding current, time waits for no one.
“I teamed up with the producer duo Burudu to bring "Nadi" to life, and I couldn't be happier with how the production mirrors the song's emotional journey. We tried crafting a blend of acoustic pop with chill beats and vibrant flute samples, infused with contemporary electronica, setting the stage for the introspective exploration ahead. The music video also turned out amazing and as we wanted to capture the essence of childhood, so we filmed a group of friends spending a day together, reliving their youthful innocence. As we filmed, it felt like we were transported back to our own carefree days.”
Artistic Sensibilities
In peek into Ishaan's creative process makes us understand that melodies and riffs aren't just passing thoughts but vibrant threads waiting to be woven into songs. His mind buzzes with random tunes and rhythms and each one a potential gem that he captures in voice notes before they slip away. These snippets of melody take root in Ishaan's consciousness, evolving over days until he retreats to Logic, where they flourish into fully-fledged compositions. Layer by layer, he crafts each element to complement the foundation laid by his initial musings. But when it comes to lyrics, Ishaan's approach is just as organic. Guided by his compositions or inspired by themes found within his notes, he weaves words into melodies as a reflection of his innermost thoughts and emotions. As a student of design, Ishaan's artistic sensibilities extend beyond music, informing his creative process in unexpected ways.
Embracing Diversity
Drawing inspiration from his diverse musical influences, Ishaan, known by his stage name Indus, envisions his music as a multifaceted expression of creativity. Explaining the genesis of his stage name, he shares his desire for his music to flow into various tributaries, reflecting the intricate tapestry of his artistic vision. When asked to categorize his sound, he hesitates, acknowledging the challenge of encapsulating its essence in a ‘single term’. However, for now, he tentatively settles on "indie electro pop," a genre that hints at the eclectic blend of genres and styles that permeate his music. Indus' influences span a wide spectrum, ranging from the melodies of John Mayer and Shankar Ehsaan Loy to the electronic beats of Baynk and Ben Böhmer.
“I have at least two more singles lined up to release in the coming months. I hope I can release a few more by the end of the year. One of them might be a collaboration with an Indian artist I’ve been wanting to work with for ages – she’s a wonderful artist and human being. By the end of the year, I hope I’ll be well positioned to have a set I can perform live”
Crafting Melodies
Ishaan reflected on his journey as an artist, acknowledging the evolution his sound and approach had undergone in recent years. In his youth, he gravitated towards crafting English pop-rock tunes, influenced by the music that dominated his teenage years. Back then, he found peace in writing sad songs, a reflection of the turbulent emotions brewing within him. However, as he delved deeper into his musical aspirations, Ishaan's perspective shifted. And he began to observe the changing landscape of music consumption, noting the increasing influence of electronic sounds and the growing association between music and dance.
From Design to Music
Drawing from his background in design and a user-centric mindset, Ishaan became more attuned to the preferences and habits of his audience. While staying true to his artistic identity, he recognized the importance of crafting music that resonated with listeners. This newfound perspective allowed him to experiment more freely, leading him to explore writing in Hindi and blending semi-classical vocals with electronic elements, a synthesis of tradition and modernity that defined his current artistic journey.
“I choose music because I love it with all my heart. The journey isn't easy, but that's part of the adventure. I remind myself to be my own biggest cheerleader and to never lose belief in myself, especially on tough days. I constantly reflect on why I started this journey in the first place and it's my passion that drives me forward. Learning how to market my music is crucial, so I'm not afraid to send those cold messages and emails. I also make an effort to connect with other musicians and creative professionals in the industry, building genuine relationships without any agenda. Who knows what opportunities may arise from these connections?”
Embracing Diversity
Drawing inspiration from his diverse musical influences, Ishaan, known by his stage name Indus, envisions his music as a multifaceted expression of creativity. Explaining the genesis of his stage name, he shares his desire for his music to flow into various tributaries, reflecting the intricate tapestry of his artistic vision. When asked to categorize his sound, he hesitates, acknowledging the challenge of encapsulating its essence in a ‘single term’. However, for now, he tentatively settles on "indie electro pop," a genre that hints at the eclectic blend of genres and styles that permeate his music. Indus' influences span a wide spectrum, ranging from the melodies of John Mayer and Shankar Ehsaan Loy to the electronic beats of Baynk and Ben Böhmer.
“I have at least two more singles lined up to release in the coming months. I hope I can release a few more by the end of the year. One of them might be a collaboration with an Indian artist I’ve been wanting to work with for ages – she’s a wonderful artist and human being. By the end of the year, I hope I’ll be well positioned to have a set I can perform live”
Crafting Melodies
Ishaan reflected on his journey as an artist, acknowledging the evolution his sound and approach had undergone in recent years. In his youth, he gravitated towards crafting English pop-rock tunes, influenced by the music that dominated his teenage years. Back then, he found peace in writing sad songs, a reflection of the turbulent emotions brewing within him. However, as he delved deeper into his musical aspirations, Ishaan's perspective shifted. And he began to observe the changing landscape of music consumption, noting the increasing influence of electronic sounds and the growing association between music and dance.
From Design to Music
Drawing from his background in design and a user-centric mindset, Ishaan became more attuned to the preferences and habits of his audience. While staying true to his artistic identity, he recognized the importance of crafting music that resonated with listeners. This newfound perspective allowed him to experiment more freely, leading him to explore writing in Hindi and blending semi-classical vocals with electronic elements, a synthesis of tradition and modernity that defined his current artistic journey.
“I choose music because I love it with all my heart. The journey isn't easy, but that's part of the adventure. I remind myself to be my own biggest cheerleader and to never lose belief in myself, especially on tough days. I constantly reflect on why I started this journey in the first place and it's my passion that drives me forward. Learning how to market my music is crucial, so I'm not afraid to send those cold messages and emails. I also make an effort to connect with other musicians and creative professionals in the industry, building genuine relationships without any agenda. Who knows what opportunities may arise from these connections?”
Embracing Diversity
Drawing inspiration from his diverse musical influences, Ishaan, known by his stage name Indus, envisions his music as a multifaceted expression of creativity. Explaining the genesis of his stage name, he shares his desire for his music to flow into various tributaries, reflecting the intricate tapestry of his artistic vision. When asked to categorize his sound, he hesitates, acknowledging the challenge of encapsulating its essence in a ‘single term’. However, for now, he tentatively settles on "indie electro pop," a genre that hints at the eclectic blend of genres and styles that permeate his music. Indus' influences span a wide spectrum, ranging from the melodies of John Mayer and Shankar Ehsaan Loy to the electronic beats of Baynk and Ben Böhmer.
“I have at least two more singles lined up to release in the coming months. I hope I can release a few more by the end of the year. One of them might be a collaboration with an Indian artist I’ve been wanting to work with for ages – she’s a wonderful artist and human being. By the end of the year, I hope I’ll be well positioned to have a set I can perform live”
Crafting Melodies
Ishaan reflected on his journey as an artist, acknowledging the evolution his sound and approach had undergone in recent years. In his youth, he gravitated towards crafting English pop-rock tunes, influenced by the music that dominated his teenage years. Back then, he found peace in writing sad songs, a reflection of the turbulent emotions brewing within him. However, as he delved deeper into his musical aspirations, Ishaan's perspective shifted. And he began to observe the changing landscape of music consumption, noting the increasing influence of electronic sounds and the growing association between music and dance.
From Design to Music
Drawing from his background in design and a user-centric mindset, Ishaan became more attuned to the preferences and habits of his audience. While staying true to his artistic identity, he recognized the importance of crafting music that resonated with listeners. This newfound perspective allowed him to experiment more freely, leading him to explore writing in Hindi and blending semi-classical vocals with electronic elements, a synthesis of tradition and modernity that defined his current artistic journey.
“I choose music because I love it with all my heart. The journey isn't easy, but that's part of the adventure. I remind myself to be my own biggest cheerleader and to never lose belief in myself, especially on tough days. I constantly reflect on why I started this journey in the first place and it's my passion that drives me forward. Learning how to market my music is crucial, so I'm not afraid to send those cold messages and emails. I also make an effort to connect with other musicians and creative professionals in the industry, building genuine relationships without any agenda. Who knows what opportunities may arise from these connections?”
