Kraken is a 5-piece band from Delhi, India. However, like their hometown, they're committed to bringing different cultures, genres and identities into their music, creating a unique identity that pays homage to many different inspirations. Their latest single ‘Khan Market Gang’ (taken from their upcoming EP ‘CLUB NAMASTE’) is proof their signature offering.
Rock, Hip-Hop, Dance, Bhangra, Folk and Electronic are the main influences that can be found within their new track. Traditional Indian instruments can be found within the track, creating an atmospheric undertone. Drums pierce through the mix - minimal but hard-hitting creating a fantastic foundation for the rest of the band. In partnership with the drums is a double bass, creating a groove that will get you up and dancing. Guitars that feature ebb and flow between each other, creating a wall of melodies that entice you in. Vocals lay on top, just hitting through the mix but also sometimes laying back further in the mix to pay kudos to the amazing instrumentation. Visually the band have also crafted a unique image which is showcased below:
Speaking to us about the release they said: “New Delhi is reflected in each of our songs. The nightlife, the streets, the food, the people and the architecture - Everything we’ve experienced growing up, looking at and experiencing foreign influences through the eyes of an Indian living in a fast globalising world and how cultures are shopped and adopted as they are no longer foreign anymore, but we are able to build our bonds with it and how they become a part of who we are, and who we become.
Khan Market Gang is a song that personifies our love for Delhi, its people and our experiences in this lonely city. And that personification happens through the eyes of 5 musicians who are not only heavily influenced both by skilfully executed rock and rap music, but also by Bhangra, Folk and Bollywood.
Club Namaste, the EP challenged us in making life choices to prioritise making music and expressing over a lot of other things that Indian society holds in higher regard than music. We didn’t stop until we each resonated with the music together and were absolutely convinced that we had created something honest, real and was truly the sound we all heard in our minds.”
The band have already achieved major accolades. Examples include achieving national success in the independent scene when their debut single "Dance Jane Dance '' went viral winning them a Rolling Stone Award for Best Song People's Choice. Kraken then went on to release their debut EP "LUSH" in 2017 which was completely funded by the competition prize money. With strong support and their music going from strength to strength, we can’t wait to see what’s in store.
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