Revived

by RISHI AMATYA

FROM ISSUE # 136 (April 2007) | IN THIS ISSUE
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ANUP PRAKASH

Mukti and Revival are Mukti on vocals and guitars, Roshan on bass and Rabindra on drums. When they started to churn out music, it was not more than a 'scene'. Now a decade later Nepali music isn't just limited to a 'scene': it's a full fledged industry. And how does it feel to be there all this time? In their own words, wonderful! They certainly aren't a bragging lot, but when it comes to music they are definitely the crowd pleasures. Why, they even got a deity-like welcome when they took to the stage after five years.

When it comes to their music, Mukti and Revival needs no introduction. They had the country sway to their debut album Kalanki Ko Jam (2000). Their tunes were so memorable that it soon took to the streets as anthems. Crowds genuinely enjoyed their song Chaubandi Cholo insomuch that it became their trademark. Whenever they go to play any concert the crowds ask for it and Ides of March on 10 March was no different.

"The concert in Bhrikuti Mandap was such a swell," says Rabindra. "We got a grand welcome. Mukti dai was wrapped in mufflers all over and looked like Akash Bhairav with a guitar." And guess what happened next. "A girl suddenly climbed up on stage hugged him and gave a quick kiss." That sure was some welcome home gift for them, and how does it feel? "Marvelous. The crowd still seems to have our music in their hearts and that's the best compliment you can get as an artist," says Mukti. And as earnest musicians they are preparing for their follow up album to Bujhai Deu.  

"When we sang Bujhai Deu nobody cared to explain what was happening to the country around that time. Now as the country's history is being rewritten, our songs are being influenced by it as well," says Mukti. " We believe that all creative people bear witness to the happenings around them and are influenced in their creative process. In our case the music itself inspires us to catch the fluidity of the moment and finds its way out through what we play. Thus we have decided our third studio offering will be titled as Dhekdai Chu," explains the frontman. Now they surely sound like blues musicians transforming the pains and everyday frustrations into music.

"Blues musicians? Nah, we never considered so ourselves. We are Nepali musicians through and through. We are influenced by the rock and blues act of the 70's and try to incorporate our influences into our creations. And what we play is a Nepali tune to the core, maybe that's the reason why the crowds can easily relate to our songs," Mukti explains. 

Their third album is nearly finished, and talks are going on with the record companies. While that's in the progresses, they plan to release a single soon. "We want to release a single to see how people will like our new work which sounds along the lines of our debut album informs Roshan adding, "We are planning to take it slow.

'Wait and see' is our mantra for the time being."

Knowing their music and their dedication, the wait will be worthwhile. A typical Mukti and Revival sound, t3he album is a blend between rock and roll with the deep blues bass and progression which takes over with the right rhythm section pounding on the drums.It may have a western feel but is sure to have a Nepali soul. Yes, that's Mukti and Revival for you.