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Back in March 2008 Advaita, Indigo Children, Medusa and Swarathma, four young bands from across India, meet and impress one of the UK’s legendary producers, John Leckie (Radiohead, Stone Roses, Muse and many more).

Over the next few months they exchange music and ideas by email. In October 2008 John flies over to India with fellow British producer Dan Austin to spend an intense few weeks at Yash Raj studios in Mumbai, recording with each of the bands.

The result is a collaboration between some of the brightest new talent in Indian independent music and two absolute heavyweights of the recording studio. And a brilliant collection of brand new recordings of original material set to be released in the UK and India later this year. Stay tuned for the next installment.

Release date: 12th May 2009 (Facaulty)

India Soundpad is an ambitious new project from the British Council and the University of Westminster’s Faculty Music label (John & Jehn), aimed at generating a dialogue between the emerging alternative music scenes in India and the UK. The project brings two industries closer together in constructive creative and professional conversation, champions UK creativity using British production talent as an inspiration and teaching tool, and develops emerging Indian music talent and increasing confidence regarding stepping onto the international stage.

The Artists:

Delhi based Indigo Children mix catchy pop hooks with grunge guitars and belting choruses which have already given the 3 piece a big reputation for their energy, strong original material and great live performances.

Medusa draw influences from a number of bands from a number of scenes and incorporating Indian instruments such as the sitar into their music alongside electronic elements puts a distinct spin on their Mumbai sound.

Indian folk band Swarathma combine traditional Hindi music with a diverse variety of influences to create a sound entirely unique to them. The six-piece are fond of collaborating with musicians from different cultures and have recently signed to a major label who recognized their talent.

Advaita borrow their name from the ancient Indian philosophy of Non-Duality, they are an 8 piece band who blend different styles and moods from various cultures into something truly original. With Western influences including Pink Floyd and The Chemical Brothers, Advaita stay true to their roots by also using tabla rhythms in their music.

Whilst each of the Soundpad bands have their own unique sound, they are all key in the growing alternative music scene in India. Some draw upon traditional Indian classical and folk traditions, whilst others are more influenced by contemporary Western music.

See more: Website / Myspace