Mumbai Alt-Rockers Tapas Deliver Splendid Sophomore EP ‘Jazb’

Formed in 2016 by vocalist Ninad Bhat and guitarist Akshay Redekar, the pair roped in keyboardist Advait Sawant, bassist Akhil Sindhwani, drummer Joshua Dsouza and guitarist Reagan Almeida to complete the lineup for their alt-rock band Tapas. The Mumbai group went on to release their debut EP Aarambh in 2018 and are now out with their sophomore EP, the three-track Jazb. “The songs for the second EP were in progress with the first, we hit the studios with the finalized songs in October last year,” says Redekar.

For Jazb the band consciously decided to maintain a more contemporary sound with simplicity, moving away from what they showcased on their debut EP. “We decided to experiment with the arrangements, time signature changes, incorporating electronic elements without disturbing the aesthetic of the song themes,” says Bhat.

According to the group, the new EP’s title “stands for diving into the realm of human emotions and tendencies.” The record opens with the soaring “Azadiyaan” which is “about the need for emotional liberation.” Tapas amp it up on “Bayaan” while Bhat sings about yearning for love and weaves in melodies influenced by the Raag Charukeshi. The EP closer, “’Ankhon Waale Andhe’” is a satirical take on how the best qualities in human beings have become obscure due to ignorance.

Sonically the band has delivered a crushing record with some super guitar riffs and solo, slick keyboard parts, crushing drum and bass grooves and high-octane vocals. Tapas self-produced the EP and recorded a majority of it at Sindhwani’s home studio. The EP has been mixed and mastered by Adhiraj Singh. “He [Singh] has been a real hero for us since our debut EP,” says Redekar.

Due to gigs being dried up now because of the coronavirus pandemic, the band is looking at promoting the EP through digital platforms and online live sessions. Next, the band is prepping two singles; “Gaihaan” and a love ballad written while in lockdown called “Chahat.” Redekar says, “[In lockdown] we’ve been utilizing our time in keeping in touch with our fans, playing music for them live, writing new music and trying to be in the best shape, mentally and physically.”

Stream ‘Jazb’ on Spotify below: