JOIN US'The City has a matured sound'
The final year in college is always a dreaded time. Most students usually sit up for hours studying as much as they can.
Metalhead Vinod Gunasekaran, a final-year-student of CMR Institute of Management Studies admits he doesn’t do that.
A lead vocalist and lyricist of alternative band ‘Errorz’ and heavy-metal band ‘Dequma’, Vinod focusses on independent songwriting and shuttles between the two.
He says that his music is the only force that is constant in his journey and he is able to walk with a steady head despite his backlogs because of his love towards music and the success of his two bands, one of which was recognised by MTV.
Taking inspiration from legendary artistes like ‘Cynic’, ‘Behemoth’, ‘Mayhem’ and ‘Sikth’, Vinod is currently focussing on writing songs and releasing music as he is done with performances in college fests.
A common name and face in popular music events such as ‘Connecting Classrooms’, ‘Freedom Jam’, ‘Sonido Battle of Bands’ and ‘Rainbow Jam’ Vinod says, “I really look forward to weekends and crave for some free time so that I can be myself during my jamming sessions and continue writing songs.”
His music ranges from human connect to everyday situations that are universal as he believes that songs that are true to him will connect with the listener.
However, his songs can be quite hard-hitting as his themes range from superstition, inequality and idol worship as well.
“People should be able to relate to what I have channelised through my art. This connection makes for a wonderful experience and the audience and the band walk side-by-side.”
He recalls his musical journey — the time he stepped into the music industry during his school days and went on to starting a band in college. He says that it is an art which came naturally to him.
“Nobody forces me or my band to pursue music. We don’t push anyone to work hard or look for line-up changes since we are all here for the love of metal. The entire process comes in naturally because we have been doing it for a long time now.”
And he doesn’t forget to add that in channelising his passion, the City has played
a major role. He finds it quite heartening to think that Bengaluru is often considered as the metal capital. “This title is a huge motivation for upcoming bands today. Bengaluru has been exposed to multiple varieties of sounds and endorses different genres of music.
Small ensembles that played at small stages are not trying to endorse any other band or imitate someone else but are playing original music at bigger venues. Bengaluru also has a number of venues which provide opportunities to youngsters. The City has a very matured sound.”
Vinod is hoping to finish his final year on a positive tone and hopes to tour the country soon with his band. He wishes to pursue music full time but says that he will work immediately after college to support himself and his music. He advises younger musicians to stay true to their music and not give up midway.