Alien SKy Cult - currently based in North-East, India the band is trying to get the Untitled Album on its track. Alien Sky Cult formed in October 2011. The band started out with Shung and Siddhartha on Guitars/Vocals and Drums respectively with Akkshit joining as the frontman. Having a similar taste in music culminated into the journey of ASC with the three of them at the core of it. The current line up includes Farhat (guitars), Jishnu (Bass) and Edwin (Vocals).
When was your first release and how far do you think you’ve come or has the band grown since then?
We released our first single “Fate’ on Feb 22nd 2012, we had a very good response from our local community. I think if we look at Fate and our latest release Glass Cannon. We’ve evolved in many ways. But we have maintained that sound. Which many bands lose giving in to whatever is trending on at the particular time.
How has your place of Origin been an influence to your music?
I think growing up we’ve had a lot of influence from our surroundings. North-east in general is known for having a lot of music communities, of all kinds of genres and styles. We were fortunate to grow up with the support of our fellow musicians, peers and seniors. I think without the support of our Local scene we wouldn't be where we are today.
Tell us something about "Alien Sky cult", the inspiration behind the name and the project.
The idea comes from the Eric Von Daniken’s Book “Chariots of the Gods Whose documentary adaptation I had watched when I was in 11th standard. The idea or the probability of us not being alone in the universe stuck with me. The Nazca plains in Peru have inscriptions which can only be seen from above. These inscriptions are dated 500 BCE and 500 CE. The idea is not that it has happened, the idea is that we are not alone.
The duality of the name also signifies that we are all aliens living in other cities and other parts of the world away from our hometowns. Alien Sky Cult is an umbrella term for that.
If there is one thing that binds and unites the band?
I think we’re a collective of different individuals. But we always agree on our political views. And we all stand against the Fascism that’s prevalent in our country now.
What got you into this genre?
This genre has been the soundtrack of our teenage years. It has this aggressive, yet melodic style that has drawn us always. We always loved that there was this singalong melody or vocal line. Even though it was a metal song. It is structured, heavy, non-repetitive and politically driven.
How are the psychological rewards in this career you have chosen?
I think it's always more psychological rewards that we chase than money in this game. It's almost never about the money. It's about that satisfaction of someone stating that the song meant something to them. Our work is repaid with that. We have never second guessed what we wanted to do musically. But some of our associations or the way we did things could be less stressful. We’re learning everyday. It never stops.
How does India perform in this genre compared to European or American competition?
I think our scene is still taking lessons from its western counterparts. We are constantly inspired by what they do. We have a long way to go. But that path will unfold only when we take the road often not taken. Our indie and electronic bands have broken the mould and will continue to show us how we should be a good representation of our own culture too. I think in a way that is where Bloodywood has become successful. In becoming and celebrating what we are as Indians.
How is the support from industry peers?
From releasing our first single, to be nominated for the ‘Best Song of the Year’ in the Rolling Stones Metal Awards 2013. Hard Work will always be revered. But due to our hiatus since 2015 till 2019. We have to gather that support back. Which we’re hoping to do in the next releases that we have lined up.
How easy/difficult is it to release music in your genre?
I think in today’s time it's not that difficult. We’ve all evolved how we release music with the advent of a lot of platforms to distribute your music. I remember how bands used to dish out CD copies with Xeroxed artwork now being available worldwide. It's a small world now and we’re all connected.
How frequently do you get an opportunity to perform?
At our peak ie (2013) we got booked for a gig or two every month. Getting booked back then meant how good your music was. Because that transcended everything. It's a different ballgame. Nepotism and Social connections also play a good role. How good your reputation is, depends more than how your sound is.
5 Drummers/Bands who inspired you and continue to do so?
Bands: As I Lay Dying, August Burns Red, The Ghost Inside, While She Sleeps, Architects.
Drummers: Dennis Chambers, John Bonham, Joey Jordison, Matt Gartska, Tony Royster Jr,
What’s coming up for You down the road?
We’re working on our Debut Album which we want to release by the end of the year. But we will be releasing a few more singles in the lead up to the Album. Excited!!
Well, thank you once again for spending time with us, giving us valuable insight into your career. We wish you all the very best of luck in your endeavours. See you soon at a club.
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