Indus Creed
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Indus Creed is a rock group from India formed in 1993. After getting a new drummer they decided to radically alter their sound by incorporating Indian instruments into their music.
Indus Creed holds the distinction of being India's premier Rock band. The group was formed in 1984 and was then known as "Rock Machine". The line-up featured Mahesh Tinaikar (lead guitar), Mark Selwyn (bass), Uday Benegal (vocals), Jayesh Gandhi (Rhythm and lead guitar), Mark Menzes (Drums) and Zubin Balaporia (Keyboard).
Rock Machine was mainly a "covers-only" band, heavily influenced by American and British rockers such as Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Deep Purple, Van Halen, Whitesnake and others. Based in Bombay (now known as Mumbai), Rock Machine was one of the first bands in India to tour the length and breadth of the country.
Around 1988, the band launched "Rock and Roll Renegade", India's first all-original rock album. The album was successful among Indian rock music aficionados and Rock Machine's touring made them very popular among college audiences. The band was known for its slick, well-produced concerts, unlike the highly unpredictable, inconsistent shows put up by amateur Indian bands.
The early 90s saw a major shift in the entertainment landscape in India. The arrival of MTV made new American and British music more accessible to Indian rock listeners. Almost overnight,the tastes changed and listeners either wanted heavier, harder rock (like Metallica) or an "alternative" sound. Thus, "Indus Creed" came into existence in 1993. Gone were the 80s-style clothes and songs. The band adopted a new name that signalled a more "global" and hip image. Their sound changed dramatically. They introduced softer, more acoustic instruments, including a tabla player. Their third album titled "Indus Creed" was promoted extensively on MTV and even got them a hit single ("Pretty Child").
Official Web Site: http://www.geocities.com/SunsetStrip/Stage/9039/index.html