Music from the Hills: Bipul Chettri’s latest release, ‘Neela Akash’
A still from the video for ‘Neela Akash’ by Bipul Chettri - via YouTube
The theme of loneliness and isolation—which so many of us could be feeling in this time—is particularly pertinent in this lush new Himalayan folk track
We may be stuck in homes in lockdown, living in fear of the worldwide pandemic, but at least, we still have music, to entertain us, to inspire us, to move us. For Darjeeling-based singer-songwriter Bipul Chettri, at least there is still the blue sky above us, a constant even in these difficult times.
We may be stuck in homes in lockdown, living in fear of the worldwide pandemic, but at least, we still have music, to entertain us, to inspire us, to move us. For Darjeeling-based singer-songwriter Bipul Chettri, at least there is still the blue sky above us, a constant even in these difficult times.
There have been a bunch of new indie music releases in the past few weeks, but I’ve been most excited about Chettri’s new single, his ode to the blue sky, ‘Neela Akash’. Chhetri, known for Nepali Himalayan folk music, recorded this latest song at Anindo Bose’s PlugNlay studios, and captures this signature mountain vibe yet again.
I have been a fan Chettri’s work for quite a while now, and this release is quite a pleasant treat to the ears. The unique element to this song is the use of a slide guitar, which eventually builds up to a beautiful guitar solo, played by the amazing guitarist Pranai Gurung.
3,605 Likes, 16 Comments - Bipul Chettri (@bipulchettri) on Instagram: "Our very own @pranaigurung with his beautiful slide guitar solo during the recording of 'Neela..."
The concept of the song, as described from Chhetri’s own YouTube release goes as such: “‘Neela Akash’ speaks about bittersweet longing, of hope, reflection and acceptance”. These themes are farthered by the visuals to this song, in the video that was actually shot in Manang, Nepal, with stunning images of snow-covered mountains. The narrative follows a man living in solitude, in search, perhaps, for loved ones, or in the hope that those loved ones could return to him.
The theme of loneliness and isolation—which so many of us could be feeling in this time—is particularly pertinent in this track, making it an important part of any ‘lockdown’ playlist.
Saacho hau ki timi yaa kalpana
Eklo chhu ma sansarma
Khaacho dherai timro chha yaha
(Are you real or just an imagination?
I’m alone in this world.
Much of you is still here.)
Chhetri dedicated this track to Sonam Sherpa, the lead-guitarist of Parikrama who passed away recently. Parikrama have been heavyweights in the Indian rock scene, and Sharma’s death was quite a shock in the indie music industry.
Chhetri’s song has been a breath of fresh air. I am hopeful that he will follow this up with an EP, or perhaps another single—it would be much-needed relief, especially in times like these. Happy listening!
***
Ady Manral is a singer-songwriter based in Landour whose debut EP Lean On Love was released globally to critical acclaim in 2018. Ady has performed gigs in India, the UK and USA over the past few years. He was the co-founder and director of Big Gig, a music festival in Landour. He currently works at Woodstock School India. You can follow him on Instagram at @adyindia or Twitter @adymanral
