Experimenting with a kaleidoscope of textures, rhythms and atmospheres, rock bands have an irresistible and almost brutal urge to recreate their sonic identities over and over again.
As inorganic textures pave their way through distorted bass lines, the dynamic range of melodies created have always lured one into the world of aural harmony.
And, in the quest for bliss, many have sought solace and freedom in rock music.
Keeping the true spirit of rock alive, the members of Stoneage believe that music is the answer to all our problems.
“Music has all the qualities and emotions that a human being looks for.
It is a beautiful blend of art, science and mathematics.
It has the ability to penetrate our souls.
In fact, it can solve anything and bring joy into our lives.
Today, music has become our identity,” said Madhusudhan, bassist and lyricist of Mysore-based rock band Stoneage.
Flirting with the raw sounds of punk rock primitivism, Stoneage comprising Srikanta (drummer), Bappi Blossom (lead vocalist, lyricist, and guitarist), Poornachandra (sound engineer), Munna (backing vocals an guitars), Selva (lead guitarist), Varsha (backing vocals and guitar), Baadal (vocals) and Madhusudhan (bassist and lyricist) have dabbled in various genres ranging from hard rock, thrash metal to progression.
In fact, it was Madhu and Sreekanta who floated the idea of starting a band during their stint at Rangayana as student artistes while pursuing a course in theatre.
Soon the scout for artistes and singers brought together all the band mates.
Drawing inspiration from rock bands like Metallica, AC/DC, Scorpions, Greenday, U2 and System of Down, the band has carved a niche for itself for its virtuosity and unparalleled diversity.
“Music was never a hobby for us, we always thought of making it our profession.
The hard work and rigorous practice sessions over the years have helped us evolve into a full-fledged music band.
Although we are passionate about punk rock and metal, we have not confined ourselves to any one particular style of rock.
We are constantly experimenting with genres,” said Madhusudhan who sincerely believes that music awakens your spirituality, brings hope and teaches you to be patient at the same time.
According to Madhu, there have been several musicians in the past who have confronted the chaos of our existence through music.
Embracing the spirit of calmness and the beauty of solitude through music, the artiste further added,” Music is universal.
We have had several artistes like John Lennon, Michael Jackson, Bob Marley and Jimmy Hendrix who incorporated pure philosophy in their music.
Our very own Purandaradas and poets wrote some thoughtful vachanas too,” he said.
So what’s next for the Mysore rockers? “Well, we are working on our compositions and they mainly revolve around life and love.
Maybe in the future our songs would be on the system and our way of living; and might have darker undertones.
We also have plans to make a music video and are also working on a new Kannada Hard Rock song,” signed off Madhu.
This Mysore-based band also admits that the music scene in Bangalore was one of their inspirations to start a music band.