By Cherry Chauhan
It is so not new to hear the word “Jazz” being mumbled whenever the talks of music begin. The smooth and perennial flow of the rhythm gets you completely ecstatic. Considered as one of the most popular music genres out there, it is still an enigma to our nation. It’s yet to establish a proper foothold in the common man’s ear in this country.
While most of our music is sold mainly through feature films, there are several independent Indian artists who have been jazzing up the Indian music scene with their touch of Indian music.
Check out the list of such amazing jazz bands that changed the scope of the genre in the nation:
1. DRIFT
Classical jazz fused with many elements of contemporary Bebop. They are must try for a classic jazz experience. They launched their own album Nico back in 2013. Rad stuff. Check them out: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDBh0G7vEJn-4tTxyg0DNQA
2. RAJEEV RAJA COMBINE
A flautist as a vocalist! Already something exciting. Melodic sounds of flute combined with classical and Italian jazz, Rajeev Raja Combine is a strategic mix of smart and delightful music. Their album “Cosmic Chant” was an excellent example of that. Check out their music: https://soundcloud.com/rajeevrajacombine
3. The JAZZ B’STARDS
If you love sarcasm, you’ll love them. They are a bunch of musicians who create exciting modern jazz music and are simply too good at it. If you listen to them once, you’ll always wanna listen to them more. Check them out here: https://www.facebook.com/The-Jass-Bstards-133945863304355/
4. KENDRAKA
One of the most powerful performers onstage, Kendraka is one hell of a band. Playing fusion jazz with a variety of elements from other genres, their music is a powerful expression of their emotions and they are amongst the best live acts you’ll ever witness. Lend them an ear here: http://www.kendraka.com/
5. UNK: THE RADHA THOMAS ENSEMBLE
Led by vocalist Radha Thomas who adds tons of elegance to the music of UNK, they are a Blues and jazz fusion band. Based in Bangalore, the band features many members from across the globe and are amongst the most experienced jazz bands in the country. Check out UNK here: http://www.reverbnation.com/unktheradhathomasensemble
6. HFT
HFT is a free soul jazz band who is sailing across the country with their totally savvy and uber-cool style of implementing jazz with Indian music. HFT is amongst the most known bands in the country for when the word “Jazz” comes to mind. Check out their warm and soothing compositions here: https://www.youtube.com/user/HFTMusicIndia
7. BEER PUPPETS
The Calcutta based jazz band has been making headlines for a quite some time now. Clubbing neo soul and experimental music with jazz, they’ve done some marvelous wonders. They’ll charm you all up with their calm and breezy music. Give them a hear here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyQHbQ28Bbw
8. SYNCOPATION
Even if you don’t follow jazz, they literally need no introduction. Blending contemporary Jazz with funk and swing music, Syncopation have established themselves a much-sought fan following. Their music is captivating and oh-so-worth an ear. Check them out: http://www.myband.co.in/SYNCOPATION/
9. REFUGE
A jazz quartet performing with an exquisite pianist? I don’t know what doesn’t sell this band to you more, the word jazz quartet or the word pianist. Because I’m completely sold! Just hear them out and thank me later.
http://refugemusic.in
10. THE VINAY KAUSHAL COLLECTIVE
Vinay Kaushal studied music at the Guitar Institute of Technology, LA. I think it suffices to say that his band has some classy stuff to offer. Not only jazz but fusing jazz with blues and rock! They are a full time “The Who” of our generation.
So are you jazzing it already? If not, then what are you waiting for. And let us know any more Jazz bands that you love and we missed out on!
