In search of a new sound

Gaurav Tiwari and Taresh Agarwal of Dream Note

Melancholy, sweet and harmonious, Dream Note's latest EP, Dhun, took us by a pleasant surprise. The EP is filled with earworms that compel you to revel in nostalgia. So, it did not surprise us at all to hear that Dream Note will kick off their six-city tour, starting at Mumbai's antiSOCIAL tomorrow. Formed in 2014, the band is enjoying this high after the isolation of the pandemic.

Each of the five songs in the EP, Tiwari tells us, has its own independent story. From the vibrant scenario of love in Kahaani to the 70s-80s melancholia for Zaroori nahi, the songs hit a comforting, nostalgic vibe. "The initial idea was to make something simple and raw," Tiwari tells us. Agarwal explains that the effort was to maintain the ‘vibe' of the EP in every composition.

For this writer, the pick of the lot was Khoyi hui dhun, with its beautiful instrumental melody. "The song is difficult to explain, but comes with a lot of emotion. The idea for Khoyi hui dhun is so fresh," the songwriter reveals. Adding to the point, Agarwal says that the composition was a search for a lost tune in memory. "Hence the title," he says.

While the band's plans to set off on a tour in December of 2019 were put on hold following the pandemic, they are finally en route to doing what they enjoy the most - performing live. Tiwari shares, "Nothing can better the experience of playing live. When you play the songs you composed and the crowd joins in; that is the best part."

For Agarwal, it is the sign of a change in the Indian music industry. "Audiences have been listening to new bands and a lot of musicians have been discovered. It is a good time for music producers and musicians."

On: May 11, 8 pm onwards
At: antiSOCIAL, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Lower Parel.
Log On To: skillboxes.com
Cost: Rs 499 onwards