One of the most exciting voices coming out of Nepal right now is that of Ankit Shrestha’s. A Nepali/English singer-songwriter, who has travelled the world showcasing his music in the purest form — busking with his electric guitar and amp. A shy introverted boy who was born in Nepal, accidentally picked up the guitar when he signed up for after-school music classes in fourth grade, thinking they were mandatory. That instrument and music became his home. It gave him joy, hope, comfort, and a purpose.
So he shipped himself off to the States to make something out of this passion. “During my undergraduate studies in music, I was exposed to classical composers and choir music, which expanded my musical horizon. I started listening to classical composers like Chopin, Beethoven, and Debussy, and it was fascinating to explore different styles of music. However, even when I was listening to heavy metal, I found myself gravitating towards the 'singer/songwriter/indie' genre. It wasn't a sudden change in my listening preferences, as I had always been drawn to artists like Bob Dylan, Glen Hansard, Joni Mitchell, and others. I found the storytelling and emotional depth in their music captivating, and it resonated with me on a personal level.” In the past, Ankit has come out with two EPs that had a mellow voice and very melancholic music. The first one, Fingers and Fables was him trying to put together a demo CD/Album that he could give out to people while he was busking. That EP took a proper form when he got a decent response in Nepal. The songs in that album revolved around themes of love, loss, longing for home, and hope.
His next one was called Kathmandu Saharma, was an album he co-produced with a friend, with whom he experimented to incorporate other instruments. The songs spoke of being in a new place, figuring things out on your own, and starting fresh somewhere new. After establishing his audience in Nepal, selling out venues with crowds singing every word to his songs, Ankit has been waiting patiently for his big breakout. This year is special to him because he is ready to make his debut in India. The track from his album, Dust and Bones, is set to release this week and has the potential to move audiences globally. More about his sensibility, inspiration, and the future, below.
How would you describe your music sensibility to someone who is new to your music?
For me, authenticity is everything when it comes to music. It's not just about following a specific genre or style, but rather creating something that truly represents who I am as an artist. It's true that my music doesn't fit neatly into one specific genre. I draw inspiration from various sources, such as different art forms, cultures that I've been a part of, and different genres of music. I love experimenting with different sounds and styles to create a unique sound that's all my own. So, I stay true to my artistic sensibilities and express my genuine self through my music.
What comes first to you — the melody or the lyrics?
When it comes to writing songs, I usually start with a guitar chord progression or a riff that catches my attention. That sets the foundation for the song, and I then try to come up with a vocal melody that fits well with it. Sometimes, it's the other way around, where the lead melody comes first, but that doesn't happen as often. Once I have a rough melody in my head, I make sure to record it on my phone or recording software if I'm near my computer, so I don't forget it.
The next step for me is to add lyrics to the song. Sometimes, I already have a clear theme in mind, and I try to write about it. But other times, it's just a bunch of random words that I try to piece together, and the meaning of the song evolves as I continue to work on it. There are even some songs where I still don't fully understand the meaning behind them, but I find that intriguing in its own way. One interesting thing I've noticed is that I tend to write best when I'm commuting on a train or bus. I like to play an instrumental track on my headphones and jot down lyrics or ideas as they come to me. Later, when I sit down to actually write the song, I try to incorporate those snippets and piece everything together.
Can you tell us a little about the Indie music scene in Nepal, and how different or similar is it from the music coming out of India?
The Indie music scene in Nepal is diverse and exciting. There are a lot of talented musicians and bands that are creating some amazing music. One of the things I really appreciate about the indie scene in Nepal is that it's very supportive and collaborative. Musicians are always collaborating with each other, whether it's through live shows or recording sessions, and there's a real sense of community among the artists. Also, I love how the Nepali Indie music scene is evolving and growing. There's a lot of experimentation going on with different sounds and instruments, and it's really cool to witness all this creativity.
As for the artists coming from India, I think there are some really talented musicians and bands that are creating some great music. India has a very rich and diverse musical heritage, and it's amazing to see how modern Indian artists are incorporating those traditional sounds and instruments into their music. Music scenes in both Nepal and India are exciting and it's always interesting to see how artists are pushing the boundaries and experimenting with different sounds and genres.
How much of your own reality finds its way into your music?
I think it does a lot of the time. I think most of the time, I find that my songs are not specific to just one thing. They're often inspired by a combination of people, their stories, and my own lived experiences. Sometimes, I even feel like I draw elements from my subconscious mind, and it's hard for me to pinpoint where it all comes from.
The songs that you put out today have undergone a decade of transformation in genre and style; you were initially into classic/punk rock and metal, and were even a part of some metal bands before you left for America. Can you tell me what inspired that?
As for the evolution of my music genre and style, it's been quite a journey. I've been inspired by so many different styles of music throughout my career. I think the environment I was in at different times also played a role in shaping the genres I gravitated towards. But honestly, I've always appreciated different genres since I was a kid. Even when I was really into metal music, I still enjoyed listening to singer-songwriters like Glen Hansard, Erik Mongrain, Nick Drake.
Looking back now, I realise that back then, I was more focused on the technical side of music. I enjoyed playing challenging music on the guitar and learning fingerstyle and percussive techniques. But later on, I started to gravitate more towards the writing side of things. I became curious about what a song is trying to say, and the way artists approach their songwriting. It's been quite a journey of growth and exploration for me as a musician. So, my music style has evolved over time as I've drawn inspiration from various sources and followed my creative instincts. I'm always open to new influences and experimenting with different sounds to keep evolving as an artist.
What can you tell us about your new upcoming EP?
I'm currently in the process of working on new music, but I haven't decided yet whether it will be an EP, singles, or a full-length album. We have a single called Dust and Bones, that will be releasing soon. This will be the first single where I’d be putting the Indian audiences on the front-foot with regards to introducing my music to new audiences. I’ve signed with Backlawn Records, an Indie record label based in New Delhi — so hoping to get my music acquainted with new audiences around the world.
I actually wrote Dust And Bones back in 2017, and since then it has really evolved sonically as well as lyrically. Originally, the lyrics spoke of a personal journey through the shadows, a quest to find light after a prolonged period of darkness. I think over time, the meaning behind the song has transformed in response to my personal experiences. But despite the changes in the song, it remains a powerful tribute to the perseverance and the victory of being optimist in challenging times.
Words Hansika Lohani
Date 06-04-2023