Indus Creed
Indus Creed, formerly known as Rock Machine, stands tall as one of the pioneering rock bands in India, contributing significantly to the nation’s evolving music scene. Formed in 1984, the band has undergone several transformations while maintaining a distinctive sound that blends Western rock influences with a touch of Indian musical elements.
Formation and Early YearsIndus Creed
Indus Creed was initially formed in Mumbai, India, by high school friends Uday Benegal (vocals) and Mahesh Tinaikar (guitar). The band, initially named Rock Machine, gained popularity by performing covers of classic rock tunes from iconic bands like Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple. The lineup soon expanded to include Mark Selwyn (bass), Jayesh Gandhi (drums), and Zubin Balaporia (keyboards), solidifying the core group that would become Indus Creed.
Band membersIndus Creed
- Uday Benegal (Vocals): Uday Benegal is the lead vocalist and one of the founding members of the band. His powerful and distinctive voice has been a defining feature of Indus Creed’s sound.
- Mark Selwyn (Guitar): Mark Selwyn is a guitarist and has played a significant role in shaping the band’s musical direction with his guitar work.
- Mahesh Tinaikar (Guitar): Mahesh Tinaikar is another guitarist in the band, contributing to the dual guitar setup that has been a characteristic element of Indus Creed’s sound.
- Zubin Balaporia (Keyboards): Zubin Balaporia is the keyboardist of the band, adding a melodic and atmospheric dimension to their music.
- Rushad Mistry (Bass): Rushad Mistry plays the bass guitar, providing the low-end foundation to Indus Creed’s rock sound.
- Mark Menezes (Drums): Mark Menezes is the drummer, responsible for the band’s rhythmic backbone.
Current
- Uday Benegal – vocals, guitars, programming
- Mahesh Tinaikar – guitars, vocals
- Zubin Balaporia – keyboards, vocals
- Krishna Jhaveri – bass, vocals
- Jai Row Kavi – drums, vocals
Past
- Ian Santamaria – vocals
- Aftab Currim – guitar
- Suresh Bhadricha – drums
- Mark Selwyn – bass
- Mark Menezes – drums
- Bobby Duggal – drums
- Adrian Fernandes – drums
- Jayesh Gandhi – guitar
- Rushad Mistry – bass, vocals
- Shri – percussion
It’s worth noting that band lineups can change over time, and there may have been changes since my last knowledge update in January 2022. For the most current and detailed information, it’s recommended to check the band’s official website or recent interviews.
DiscographyIndus Creed
Rock Machine:
Rock’n’Roll Renegade (1988)
The Second Coming (1990)
Indus Creed:
Indus Creed (1995)
Evolve (2012)
Name Change and BreakthroughIndus Creed
In 1993, the band rebranded itself as Indus Creed, a name that reflected both their Indian roots and their commitment to creating original music. This change marked a significant turning point for the group. The same year, they released their self-titled album, ‘Indus Creed,’ which featured tracks like “Top of the Rock” and “Sleep,” showcasing a blend of rock, blues, and a hint of Indian classical music.
International RecognitionIndus Creed
Indus Creed achieved international recognition with their second album, ‘The Second Coming,’ released in 1995. The album featured the hit single “Pretty Child,” which garnered attention not only in India but also in international music circles. This success led to the band signing a record deal with BMG Crescendo, further solidifying their status as a prominent force in the Indian rock scene.
Musical Fusion and EvolutionIndus Creed
What sets Indus Creed apart is their ability to seamlessly blend Western rock with traditional Indian elements. The incorporation of tabla, sitar, and other indigenous instruments into their music adds a unique flavor to their sound. Tracks like “Fireflies” and “Take It Harder” exemplify this fusion, creating a musical landscape that resonates with diverse audiences.
Hiatus and ComebackIndus Creed
After a hiatus in the late 1990s, Indus Creed regrouped in the early 2000s, proving that their passion for music was unwavering. Their comeback album, ‘Evolve,’ released in 2012, showcased a more mature sound, demonstrating the band’s growth and adaptability over the years.
Legacy and InfluenceIndus Creed
Indus Creed’s impact on the Indian rock scene is immeasurable. As trailblazers in a genre that was, at the time, overshadowed by Bollywood and classical music, they paved the way for numerous other rock acts in the country. Their ability to connect with both Indian and international audiences has solidified their place as cultural ambassadors of Indian rock music.
ConclusionIndus Creed
Indus Creed’s journey from Rock Machine to becoming a torchbearer for Indian rock music is a testament to their resilience, musical prowess, and dedication. With a career spanning several decades, they continue to inspire new generations of musicians and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of India’s diverse music landscape. As they continue to evolve, Indus Creed remains an integral part of India’s rock legacy, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s musical history.
Indus Creed: Pioneers of Indian Rock
