Indian Ocean, the fusion music band that has been creating waves in the country for a while now, is in demand these days, especially after Des Mera from Peepli Live became such a rage. However, the band, which is a huge hit with youngsters, seems to be forced to make a few compromises to cater to popular demands. Says Susmit Sen, the founder member of the band, “There is always the flip side of popularity, and in our case, the audience always keeps asking for the most popular and foot-tapping numbers at the concerts.
What it means is that some of the most meaningful and soothing numbers, which are close to us, sometimes get missed out. But then, I am not complaining because the love people have showered us with in all the cities has been unbelievable.”
The death of
Asheem Chakravarty, the co-founder of the band, had shattered the members a couple of years back but slowly, they have been able to come out of it. Recounts Susmit, “It was a huge blow, but we did shows that were lined up a few days later because I knew that my friend would have wanted it that way. His contribution in this musical journey can’t be summed up in words.”
And while they have creative differences, it never turns ugly. Says Rahul Ram, “We quarrel a lot and have our share of fights, but then resolve it by working harder and playing more. We try out a lot of improvisations even on stage, if needed, and that’s helped us in evolving as a band.”