New Music: Alt-Rock from No Neighbours Around, Horsepowar’s Club-Ready Rap and More

“Still Walking” by Abhinav Saxena

After traversing a few styles in previous releases that ranged from soothing classical guitar music to psychedelic-informed jams, Mumbai artist Abhinav Saxena pivots yet again with his latest song “Still Walking.” Informed by blues and gypsy music, there’s a swagger about the aesthetic that comes through even stronger in the Jeff Goldberg-directed music video, which backs up the troubadour’s story of resolve and grit. 

“Butterfly” by Horsepowar

Indian-origin Canadian artist Horsepowar teams up with producer Juice for the club-ready “Butterfly.” In case you can’t catch it, the beat samples the Bollywood song “Titli” from the movie Chennai Express and mashes it down to a melodic element for Horsepowar’s risqué rap. The intent behind “Butterfly” gets heightened with a trippy, hectic-paced music video shot by filmmakers Bradley Avila and Alexander Huszagh. 

“Butterflies” by Pina Colada Blues

Producer Pina Colada Blues’ “Butterflies” was released on Valentine’s Day with a message of the hope that people sometimes harbor about new romances and how it might manifest itself. The producer plays to his strengths with a lo-fi, horn section-driven hook, with lyrics written by Abhiram Jitendra and vocalist Mridul Anil. “Butterflies” is part of Pina Colada Blues’ upcoming full-length called For Medusa, one that follows up his debut album Once Upon a Blue Moon from 2021. 

“Sunday Morning” by Sarayu, Alan Lili

Indo-American singer-songwriter Sarayu crafts a sensual bop with the chill “Sunday Morning,” in which she wears her heart on her sleeve. Lamenting the departure of a lover but also questioning their intentions and behavior along the way. Adorned with an unhurried beat and a few guitar licks, Sarayu blends together R&B and hip-hop for a confessional tune.  

“Loving You” by Dr. Dope

A heartfelt ballad from Assamese band Dr. Dope – that’s Dr. Declan Oppenheimer’s Polyphonic Experience – called “Loving You” is part of their 2023 EP Overture. Vocalist David Baker’s soulful vocals color the track in a touching way, with the music video showcasing the band’s performance interspersed with a nostalgic, storybook lens of a love story. 

“Afsos Nahi” by JAW

Siliguri hip-hop artist JAW calls on producer Starbxy to create a regal, earworm beat for his new song “Afsos Nahi.” True to the song’s title, the rapper holds neither regrets nor grudges about his life so far. The hook references his allegiance to India’s freedom fighter Shubhash Chandra Bose, with the verses filled with stories of trials and tribulations alike.  

“Shadow” by No Neighbours Around

If you felt like rock music in India was sorely missing some of that chunky, distorted bass-driven songwriting, look no further than Bengaluru trio No Neighbours Around. Their new single “Shadow” has quick flashes of bass virtuoso, fuzzy riffs and a fist-tight rhythm section to tie it all down.  

Genesis by Nākaloka

Actor, model and musician Monica Dogra’s project Nākaloka with producer and flautist Victorien is a total change of tempo for anyone who knew her as Shaa’ir or pop artist. The project’s album Genesis is said to be an outcome of a year of touring around the world, presenting a meditational, yet gripping kind of sonic arrangement that’s ambient, devotional and more.  

“Tu” by Aarlon

Hindi rock band Aarlon delve into the seemingly irreparable departure of a loved one in their distinctively impassioned way on “Tu.” Although the song starts out on a lighter, pop-rock note, the band builds it up for a glorious fiery second half, bringing in metalcore and djent influences. The music video for “Tu” plays up the profound grief that comes with Aarlon’s introspection, with interpretive dance and more.