Mumbai artist draws inspiration from rock legends for new single ‘Smashing Souls’
Runt, the renowned rock band from Mumbai led by vocalist and producer Siddharth Basrur, is preparing to unveil their fourth single as part of their upcoming album. Titled “Smashing Souls,” the song is a classic rock ‘n’ roll anthem that heavily features guitars, bass, and drums, catering to fans of the genre. The track draws inspiration from the iconic bands The Smashing Pumpkins and Collective Soul, with a thematic nod to the alleged feud between their frontmen. Siddharth delves into the song’s concept, sharing, “The lyrics revolve around the idea of being the creator of my artistic downfall.” Prior to its official release, we dive into a conversation with the vocalist recognized for his musical projects.
When discussing the essence behind the new single, “Smashing Souls,” Siddharth sheds light on the clash between The Smashing Pumpkins and Collective Soul. Drawing from his admiration for both bands, particularly highlighting Collective Soul’s album “Disciplined Breakdown,” Siddharth touches upon the alleged plagiarism controversy involving the songs “Shine” and “Drown.” While not directly targeting this dispute, the essence of “Smashing Souls” weaves elements from both bands into a harmonious blend, evident in the title itself.
Diving into the song’s sonic landscape, Siddharth emphasizes a back-to-basics approach, affirming his dedication to rock ‘n’ roll without striving to reinvent the wheel. The track boasts powerful guitar riffs, driving drums, pulsating basslines, and emotive vocals, embodying Siddharth’s musical essence. Reflecting on his creative process for “Smashing Souls,” the singer reveals his intention to maintain rawness in the sound, opting for a straightforward, authentic rock ‘n’ roll experience.
Furthermore, Siddharth shares that while “Smashing Souls” is a self-reflective piece, it may not necessarily align with an overarching theme in the upcoming album. He describes his songwriting as an amalgamation of personal experiences, emotions, and reflections rather than a cohesive narrative. Each track stands alone, encapsulating different moments and musings, free from a rigid conceptual structure. Siddharth emphasizes his preference for spontaneous, organic creation over preconceived themes or storylines.
Embracing a more fluid and experimental songwriting approach, Siddharth credits the pandemic-induced downtime as a pivotal period for honing his production skills and broadening his musical horizons. By immersing himself in the intricacies of mixing and mastering, Siddharth delved into uncharted territory, paving the way for innovative soundscapes and creative expressions. This newfound creative freedom enabled him to explore new techniques, refine his craft, and push boundaries, ultimately enhancing his artistic repertoire.
“Smashing Souls” is slated for release on October 26, promising an electrifying rock ‘n’ roll experience for music enthusiasts. As Siddharth and Runt gear up for the launch of their latest single, the anticipation for their forthcoming album continues to build, setting the stage for a dynamic musical journey ahead.