Interview: Aswekeepsearching
We first encountered Indian post rockers Aswekeepsearching back in 2015 when they released their beautiful debut album KHWAAB. A few weeks ago they followed that up with their stunning sophomore record Zia, so we sent Adriana Ciccone to have a chat & find out a bit more about them.
(((o))): It’s now been a couple of weeks since the release of the album, Zia. How does the band feel now that the album is released?
After Khwaab, we thought we will never make an album again. It was more cuz we were exhausted, first full length and then lot of gigs and tour. But with time, we made some songs, which ended up on Zia. We feel great that we have finally released our second full length and that people are accepting it well internationally and appreciating the work. It is only motivating us to consider writing album 3 🙂
(((o))): The album was written and based on the band’s experience during the last tour promoting your debut album Khwaab. What of those experiences influenced the band the most in creating the tracks that we now find on Zia? Was it the landscape, band interactions, interactions with the fans etc?
Nature. New friends and the moments playing different gigs. Every gig is different, with new audience, new venue, new city. There is always something new to take from everything around. We really like writing about life and nature.
(((o))): I really loved the use of the tabla and sitar in some of the tracks. What made the band decide to include these instruments in this album? Is this just a taste of more to come and will you be including them in your live shows?
When we were done with the recording process, we felt some songs still had space to some instruments. When we sent the tracks to the respective players, they recording some amazing ideas and we immediately liked it. The best thing about aswekeepsearching is that, we are not scared of experimenting. Maybe that helps us finding new direction to our music
(((o))): The band will play a few shows,mainly in Pune, New Delhi, Bengaluru and Mumbai, starting at the end of the month. Then starting up again after the monsoon season passes. Do you plan on adding any European or North American dates to the tour?
We we will be touring India soon. We have no plans for EU and USA as of now. EU, maybe 2017-18. we are in talks for the same. but we do have plans for other countries. let us get back on those when we are solid about the plan.
(((o))): What does the band do to prepare for these tours both mentally and physically?
We dont talk to each other for a month. thats cuz we know we will have to deal with each other every single day when we are on tour 🙂 Thats what we do before we start touring, avoid each other.
(((o))): I read on your Facebook page, that for the first leg of the tour, you’ve put a call out asking, “Are you into origami?” What’s the idea behind this?
We will be collaborating with some local designers to set up the venue with origami birds on our launch gigs. These gigs will be one of a kind and we most probably wont be repeating the decors/set up for any of our future gigs. Fans must consider coming for these four gigs for some exclusive experience.
(((o))): Is it too soon to ask when can fans expect the new album?
No its not soon. We have already started writing new music. But ya, lets enjoy Zia for now. We are still to perform the album live. So there is a lot to expect and experience.
