Exclusive Premiere: Home Brewed Universe Balances Ambient and Rock on ‘Yugen’

In dealing with a “personal crisis,” Hyderabad-based Arka Sengupta penned an ode in his own distinct way – through instrumental rock. His project Home Brewed Universe’s upcoming album Reliqua Mentis (out June 1st) tells the positive story of how Sengupta recovered, but faced many “emotional ups and downs” that are translated on to this 10-track album.

The first release off the album, “Yugen,” combines ambient, lightheaded layers alongside bursts of guitar leads, riffs and double-bass drumming to add a heavy element. Sengupta says about the sound on this album compared to his previous records, “Sonically, I really don’t know which genre to put it. There are shades of heavy progressive rock, post rock/metal and even a bit of alternative rock here and there. So, let’s just put in under the broader spectrum of instrumental rock/metal.”

The album comes even as Sengupta stays his prolific self as a songwriter, working on more material during the COVID-19 pandemic enforced lockdown. While a corporate day job can be taxing, Sengupta says, “More work from home option for me means more time I can put into my music. That’s the positive point.” The downside, according to the artist, is still dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, considering he doesn’t get to go out and interact with people. He adds, “But, I guess, I have the option of channeling my depression and anxiety into creativity. And I am trying to do exactly that.”

Listen to “Yugen” below. Pre-order ‘Reliqua Mentis’ here.