The Kolkata rock and metal scene
(Kolkata Rocks Perenially)

In the bustling streets of Kolkata, where the air is thick with spices and culture, you wouldn't expect to hear the thunderous beats of rock and metal echoing through the alleyways. Yet, hidden beneath the surface lies a subculture of die-hard music enthusiasts who thrive on the electrifying sounds of decades past.

Post lockdown, I stumbled into my first rock concert, diving headfirst into a world I never knew existed in the City of Joy. It's like discovering a secret society of headbangers and riff-lovers, bonded by their passion for the raw energy of late '70s and '90s rock.

Sure, our indie scene may not rival the grandeur of Bangalore or Mumbai (in size/revenue), but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in heart. It's a tight-knit community where every gig feels like a family reunion, where new bands sprout like wildflowers in a concrete jungle.

Watching these bands evolve over the past few years has been a wild ride. Despite the odds stacked against them, they soldier on, carrying the torch of rock through the darkest of nights. It's like they've made a pact with the music gods to keep the flame alive, no matter what.

What truly amazes me is the sheer love for music that drives these musicians. They're not in it for the fame or fortune (because, let's face it, there's not much of either in this scene). They're in it for the pure, unadulterated joy of creating something that moves the soul. From the blistering riffs of In Human to the mind-bending experiments of The Unofficial Utopia, there's a flavor for every palate in Kolkata's underground scene. And let's not forget the death lore of DreadHammer, whose sonic tapestries are nothing short of artistic masterpieces.

But here's the kicker: despite the blood, sweat, and tears these artists pour into their craft, they're still fighting an uphill battle for recognition. It's like trying to sell ice to an Eskimo except the ice is pure rock 'n' roll goodness, and the Eskimos are too busy with their late capitalism woes to notice.

So, do yourself a favor and break down the walls that separate you from this musical wonderland.