Yeah, we hear you. We understand how it feels giving in to the mundane nature of everyday, listening to the same music as it almost starts to feel like you’re basically running the endless treadmill that is life. But, don’t worry. We have something special to talk about. Something to spice up your routine, all the way from India. Ritviz and Nucleya are releasing (finally) their very first collaborative EP, after the former act teased for years with his creative remixes for the latter. Unless you’re living under a rock and don’t know the splendid oeuvre these Indian luminaries craft, we highly recommend to go through their earlier releases such as “Udd gaye”, “liggi” and “Bhayanak atma”.
Based in the highly competitive indie scene, they both went on to work together with globally recognized acts, as their careers rocketed: Major Lazer being a recurring one, as Ritviz remixed the Diplo led American group’s single to light up the radiant occasion of Diwali; however, Nucleya released a joint-effort with the said Miami based trio. This EP is a perfect showcase of the versatility these artists have displayed precedingly.
Going into the talked about musical assortment, it’s nearly impossible not to vibe with the opening “Sathi”. This track in particular has the sonic trademarks of Ritviz, as his influence soars on this one. The lush reverb drenched guitar licks and the intriguing percussions are followed with the vocal chops in the drop, making “Sathi” simple yet subtly nuanced.
Moving to the next performer, “Ari Ari” is a showstopper of sorts. It’s not often that a song makes me drop everything and pay total attention, but that’s what this did. It’s unique Trap structure snapped my attention, pacing at a higher BPM and fitting for an intense cardio session. There’s a notable hint of UK Grime in this, rendering it gritty and aggressive characteristics.
Jumping onto “Roz”: now this production has distinguishable features. It begins with a tabla (indigenous twin-drums) and then a shehnai (Indian wind instrument) joins in, with the first half reminiscent of the jubilant Indian wedding hymns from Bollywood movies. It contains the most addictive hook present in this EP, besides the sarcastic pun of “chal hat” (move out). Here the duo don’t pale with their experimentations, as the drop consists of energetic Shehnai riffs that are quite unusual. A fantastic midway inclusion like “Roz” is meant to elevate the mood with its vibrant temperament.
Finishing this exquisite collection would be the titular work: “Baarat”. It is one of those numbers that would make you dance while working a hectic day, or maybe while idling on the bed. After building up the stamina for a climactic ending, the pair eased and delved towards relaxing side of dance music. Percussive guitar strokes and pop-centric cadence sets it apart in this project. A skillful use of bells coupled with a sing-along chorus, it comes off as a fetching and breezy experience.
Concluding, this team-up of the acts delivers to the anticipation of their fan-bases in the most genuine and refreshing of ways. Ritvik and Nucleya synthesized a pleasing and sinew hybrid between Hindustani music and EDM, an outcome which doesn’t shy away from being inventive!
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