Candid Talks with Barun SInha

Barun Sinha is a Delhi-based multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer, sessions artist, teacher, and songwriter. Learning instruments since an early age, he has focused his attention to the bass guitar through which he provides rhythmic support and melodic interplay. Well versed with multiple genres, his specialty lie in the genres of Progressive Rock, Alternative Rock, Indie, RnB, and Singer-Songwriter. He is and has been associated with acts such as SkyEyes, Blue Breakfast, Brethren of Songs and Stories (B.O.S.S.), Songs From the Deep End, The Odd Circle, Neon Skies, Angad Katari, Big Bang Blues, Kern Dalton, and Krishna + The Journeymen. Currently, he is the Director of Technology and Production at Eastwind Academy for Advanced Music and Performance.

Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule and doing this interview for MelodyInsider. 

What would you be doing today if not for this interview? 

Well, my workday usually revolves around working, that includes producing, composing, and mixing, either on my own tracks and/or an artist’s tracks. Along with this, either I am taking classes or practicing various instruments. 

Anatomy of the Genre

Genres aren’t fixed and keep changing over time. I think it helps that the lyrics for my latest single are in Hindi, allowing people whose primary language is that to make a connection with the western style of instrumentation that I usually use for all my projects.

Tell us something about your latest single 

My latest single, ‘Khwaab’, I collaborated with Piya Podder. Though we agreed on the concept of the lyrics together, which is the dream or the desire to “rise above”, the lyrics are entirely her creation. I tried to represent the concept of the lyrics through the instrumentation too, where the rhythm section creates a constant driven feel and the other instruments represent the desire and dream to grow.

According to you, what does it take to earn the acclaimed badge of “Established Artist”?

Tricky Question. It’s a blurry border. If I had to give it a definition, maybe someone who is primarily focused on their art and is recognised by their peers in the field.

6. Your Highlight performance till date and why so?

Wow, you’d think this an easy answer. However many different occasions come to mind. Each venue had its own unique experiences. Playing in Pune surprised me as many rock lovers were found there, which I would say is harder to find these days. I remember closer to the end of the Skyeyes E.P. Tour, we played at Bangalore where we brought the house down with our volume levels. I had cut my fingers after the first set and we still went on to finish another. Playing at Shillong just felt unreal as that is a frequent holiday spot for my family.

An artist’s Best Friend is? 

Hmm. The art itself. Without the art there is no artist. Hahahaha. If the artist can decipher the soul of the art then it will be great no matter the limitations.

A piece of equipment that has been absolutely pivotal in onstage performance?

The best physical gear I have purchased is the Darkglass Microtubes B7K. It is a preamp for bass guitars allowing control over my sound to exact precision, and I use it for all my performances. I also use it to record a lot of instruments as it can act like a D.I. box too. It has quite a bit of versatility, as it adapts to my 5 string Spector Bass and my 4 String Fender Jazz Bass.

What was the first ever instrument/equipment you played? How did it inspire/motivate you?

The earliest instrument that I learnt, or that I can recall, was the piano along with music theory. At that time the lessons seemed like a chore with the exception of music theory which was quite enjoyable, especially sheet music. However, now I am grateful for those lessons adding to my experience and learning as a whole.

An Ode to the Roots

I moved around India with my family quite a bit and hence got exposed to a lot of different kinds of music. For example, in my school days in Chennai I was learning the Mridangam which was quite a unique experience. Coming back to Delhi to start my music career, I was basically starting from scratch. Luckily I was able to perform at many venues and create many long lasting relationships.

How are the psychological rewards in this career you have chosen? 

Hahahaha, the only answer is that it is an out of this world experience and leaves me with overwhelming amounts of joy and glee.

If we speak to you again exactly this date 5 years from now, How different are all the above answers going to be?

I expect many questions will change in the 5 years, as I myself will change along with my tastes and experiences. Similarly, many answers might not change. This is something one can not predict.

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 endeavors. See you soon at a Concert.