Anoushka Maskey’s ‘Most of the Days’ Pays Homage to Folk Roots
The track features the singer-songwriter’s go-to collaborator Cosmic Grooves
Sikkim-bred and Mumbai-based singer-songwriter Anoushka Maskey. Photo: Courtesy of the artist
In a whirlwind of emotions and a mere 10 minutes, Sikkim-bred and Mumbai-based singer-songwriter Anoushka Maskey birthed her latest creation, “Most of the Days.” Written at the peak of a moment where financial and emotional burdens were threatening to consume her, the song becomes a poignant testament to Maskey’s resilience and a departure from her usual musical landscape.
For Maskey, who had successfully navigated years without letting financial pressure or mental challenges define her existence, the emergence of persistent feelings of unrest became a cause for alarm. It was during this crucible of personal turmoil that “Most of the Days” was conceived, an involuntary journey into the realm of a folk ballad, as Maskey reflects on her creative process.
The song marks a full-circle moment for Maskey, harking back to her roots influenced by iconic American folk artists like Bob Dylan and Tom Waits from the Sixties. This return to the genre that shaped her early musical identity adds a layer of authenticity to “Most of the Days,” capturing the essence of folk ballads that have historically been a vessel for raw, unfiltered emotions.
Maskey opted for a stripped-down and barebones approach to the song’s composition. With just her vocals and an acoustic guitar, “Most of the Days” embodies the simplicity and emotional depth reminiscent of the folk ballads that first inspired her. The inclusion of a whistling section, born out of the creative process, prompted Maskey to expand her musical repertoire by purchasing a harmonica, adding an unexpected yet fitting element to the track.
Collaborating with creative partner Pranay Bakshi, aka Cosmic Grooves, added another layer of richness to the song. Bakshi’s newly acquired slide guitar skills seamlessly complemented Maskey’s acoustic foundation, completing the arrangement with a touch of musical finesse. The synergy between Maskey and Bakshi demonstrates the power of artistic collaboration, resulting in a composition that transcends personal struggles to become a shared, universal experience.
“Most of the Days” is a soul-baring journey through the complexities of life, translated into a folk ballad that echoes with authenticity. As Maskey and Bakshi intertwine their creative prowess, the track stands as a poignant reminder that great art often emerges from the crucible of personal turmoil, transforming pain into a timeless musical expression.
Stream “Most of the Days” on Spotify below and on other platforms:
