The Indo Gypsies, a 6 piece Contemporary Fusion/ Folk/ World Music band from Mumbai was formed in October 2011.Winning the India Fest Channel [V] Launch Pad – 2013; judged and awarded by stalwarts like Colin D’Cruz, Raghu Dixit and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy is their recent feather on the cap for the band.The band evolved with an idea of fusing different genres. Amrutha Ananth of Eight Octaves had a chat with the band.
Eight Octaves : ‘Indo Gypsies’ – your name does sound unique. Does the ‘gypsy’ stand for some hidden tribal element? How would you define your kind of music?
Indo Gypsies: Well, gypsies are renowned as travellers, having no location in particular, and not bound to any specific place. Similarly, we are not restricted to any particular genre, and love to play whatever fits the theme of the song. And “Indo” is just to indicate our Indian heritage. Our music would primarily be categorised as Folk/Fusion and World Music.
Eight Octaves : How much do you think a band member’s musical background influences the outcome of the ‘sound’ of the band?
Indo Gypsies: In our band, all the members are from various musical backgrounds. And it really helps to create versatile compositions, with a blend of music from various parts of the world, ranging from Hindustani Classical, to Latin, Spanish, Arabic, Country Western and so on. We think every member’s output, based on their musical diversity really helps bring out an unique and non-monotonous sound to the band.
Eight Octaves : You guys have performed at many places. Which concert as a band do you consider your best and any memories that you could share with us?
Indo Gypsies: No doubt in our minds at all. It had to be our opening act for the Legendary band Indian Ocean at the prestigious Shanmukhananda Hall, Mumbai. For the same, we were awarded “Tata Docomo Superstars of The Year”. It was our honour to have our performance appreciated by Indian Ocean. At the end, Susmit Sen told us “Indo Gypsies is a band to look out for.” It is a day we will never forget.
Eight Octaves : In a scale of ten, where would you place lyrics, sound of the band as a whole? What do you think makes the band a successful one?
Indo Gypsies: We really don’t think that music can be rated. It is just an expression of our thoughts, and how listeners interpret them. The music itself tells the idea behind the song. The lyrics if present, further help convey the message of the song. All-in-all, it is just a band’s determination to never give up, and the constant process of bettering themselves that makes it successful.
Eight Octaves : How would you like to describe the change in the scenario according to the ‘liking’ of the audience? How do you think the way they receive music has changed?
Indo Gypsies: It is well-known that in India, Bollywood music has always been on the top. However, nowadays, the tide of listeners is shifting to Independent music as well. People are heading out for concerts and music festivals. They are seeming to love listening musicians play live. The band scene is really growing, as there are a number of platforms for the bands to play, as well as for the listeners to enjoy.
Eight Octaves : What plans do you hold for this year? New experiments?
Indo Gypsies: We are very happy to have a great start this year, winning IndiaFest Channel V LaunchPad judged and awarded by Raghu Dixit, Colin D’Cruz and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. We hope to play at a lot bigger music festivals this year, and also to compose more original tracks. We are working on adding various elements and exotic instruments to our next tracks, to bring our listeners a fresh and unique sound.
Eight Octaves : If you could name a musician who you think has made immense contribution to the music field, who would it be and why?
Indo Gypsies: Well, there are too many legends who have contributed a lot to music. But as far as the Indian band scene is considered, if we had to pick just one, we believe Indian Ocean are its pioneers, and still at its forefront. They started at a time when the band scene in India was virtually non-existent, and really made it big globally. Their story is one which still inspires many new upcoming bands to rise up.
Eight Octaves : Do you have a “favourite song” you have ever written as a band? If yes, why?
Indo Gypsies: We love all our compositions, as they are a part of us. But again, if we had to pick a favourite, it would be “Soldier’s Love”. This track tells the story of a soldier and his wife, as a conversation through letters. We believe the lyrics of the song are simple and touching, and the folkish tune gives the exact feel that we wanted. We are really glad this song made it to the 10 top-selling singles on O.K.Listen, and was featured in the compilation album “Best of OK Listen Vol. 1”, including tracks by Indian Ocean, The Raghu Dixit Project, Agam etc. Do have a listen!
