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Girish And The Chronicles (GATC) are set to electrify the 30th edition of Mahindra Independence Rock with their powerful blend of nostalgia and innovation.
Get an inside look at Girish And The Chronicles’ journey as they prepare to rock the 30th Independence Rock festival.
When it comes to reviving the raw energy of classic heavy metal, Girish And The Chronicles (GATC) are truly on a mission. And this mission is set to rock even harder at the 30th edition of Mahindra Independence Rock, where frontman Girish Pradhan and his band are bringing a powerful mix of nostalgia and innovation to the stage. With a fresh, yet-to-be-released single that breaks new ground by featuring lyrics in their native Nepalese, alongside fan favorites and collaborations with legends like George Lynch and Joel Hoekstra, GATC is gearing up to deliver a performance as explosive as their riffs.
In an exclusive interview with News18 Showsha, Pradhan opens up about the journey from the misty hills of Gangtok to the bustling rock scene of Bengaluru and beyond. Reflecting on how their sound has evolved from Led Zeppelin covers to global metal tours, Girish shares how Independence Rock feels like a badge of honor in an industry that rarely acknowledges metal bands in India. He’s ready to rock the homeland with grit, gratitude, and guitar solos that promise to take fans on a headbanging ride back to the glory days of 80s metal. With a mix of new surprises and their signature sound, GATC is ready to prove that rock ‘n’ roll is here to stay.
Here are the excerpts:
Q: Girish And The Chronicles have built a strong reputation for reviving classic heavy metal sounds. What are you bringing to the stage for the 30th edition of Independence Rock?
Girish Pradhan: We’re working on a very exciting set! We’re adding a new single (yet to be released) to the set, which also features something we’ve never attempted before—some lyrics in our mother tongue of Nepalese! We’re also adding some tracks from my projects with George Lynch (The End Machine) and Joel Hoekstra (Joel Hoekstra’s 13). Apart from that, we have planned on performing some of our songs from Back on Earth, which we don’t often do!
Q: What does performing at a festival with such a rich history mean to you, especially considering your influences from classic rock?
Girish Pradhan: I’ve said it before. Irock certainly feels like a badge of honor and a seal of approval from the Indian scene. It’s not easy to make a name in the Indian music scene. You might feel lost and undeserving, even, at times. Mahindra Independence Rock is one of those few factors that make you feel like you’re being honored for your hard work and music, which I think is very important to any artist, especially in our kind of music, where one almost never receives any kind of acknowledgment. I feel glad that we’re being able to carry the legacy of this kind of music.
Q: How do you see your music connecting with both new listeners and long-time rock enthusiasts at the festival?
Girish Pradhan: It was evident last year that the crowd had a blast. We could see that there was a great mix of long-time listeners and new. The reaction we got was awesome! It’s also a great thing for the newer audience who are into this style of music because there aren’t many festivals in the country promoting melodic rock/metal and other similar sounding genres.
Q: You formed Girish and The Chronicles in 2009, starting out in Sikkim before moving to Bengaluru. How has the transition from Gangtok to Bengaluru influenced the band’s growth and sound?
Girish Pradhan: It’s been quite the journey. Musically, I think we have stayed very close to our own vision. But our visibility and connectivity greatly increased, with Bangalore as our base. From being part of some big commercials for companies like TVS and Roadstr to supporting bands like Poets of The Fall and TesseracT, and touring with Chris Adler, just to name a few, was definitely about being in the right place at the right time. We’ve even been inspired by bands like Kryptos in aiming at touring overseas, particularly around Europe. Overall, the city has greatly contributed to our growth as a band in the Indian scene.
Q: GATC’s sound draws heavily from the classic rock and metal influences of the 80s. What inspired you to pursue this style, and how do you balance nostalgia with a modern twist in your music?
Girish Pradhan: Well, it’s all about production. Although we have swam closely to the 80s glam and the UK’s NWOBHM, we have tried our best to keep the production very modern. It’s truly ‘80s on steroids. However, as always, we will keep evolving, and our fans can expect a lot of changes in the coming albums too. I guess it all depends on how we’re feeling overall before starting an album or single.
Q: Over the years, you’ve released three albums, each marking different phases of the band’s journey. How do you feel your sound has evolved from Back On Earth (2014) to Hail to the Heroes (2022)?
Girish Pradhan: The 2014 version of Back on Earth, which was released with Universal India, was a reflection of our initial decision as a band to stay closer to the ‘70s hard rock than the bigger “larger than life” sound of the ‘80s. We would even cover bands like Led Zeppelin and AC/DC in our shows. So, it was evident the sound we were pursuing. However, no matter how much we tried, our basic composition style was still based on bands like early Maiden, Priest, etc. But we used very crunchy, low-driven guitars at the time to be closer to the ‘70s hard rock sound.
By 2018, we decided to jump on the nostalgia bandwagon, as we were also in that phase personally, as music listeners. A lot of bands from the 80s era were also making a comeback, especially via the label Frontiers Records from Italy, to whom we eventually got signed as well. That’s when Rock The Highway happened. Hail to The Heroes was almost like an extension and a matured form of Rock the Highway. We also re-recorded the guitars and other instruments on the debut album and re-released it in 2023, with a similar sound. It could be labeled as the second transition of the band, sonically.
Q: Sharing the stage with legendary bands like Guns N’ Roses, Bullet for My Valentine, and Alter Bridge must have been a surreal experience. How did these opportunities shape your perspective as musicians?
Girish Pradhan: We realized that going on tours and experiencing other bands greatly shaped our perspective as professionals. You’re watching the greats work in real-time. You also get a sense of the hard work they have put in, at a ground level. It may have even influenced us to experiment with new sounds and so many other things too. Yet at the same time, it’s just so nice to realize that these legends that we meet and encounter are really cool and grounded folks mostly. Interacting with the members of Alterbridge particularly felt really refreshing and gave us a fresh new perspective on how artists don’t need to have a big ego. They were just so friendly and welcoming! But most of all, I think it all felt like a dream.
Q: What was it like performing as special guests for Guns N’ Roses at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi? How did that experience differ from your other international performances?
Girish Pradhan: I’d say that was a once-in-a-lifetime experience in terms of making history. I know a lot of bands out there get to open for or support big bands, but for us, it was about a band from Gangtok, Sikkim, based in Bangalore, featuring as special guests for frickin’ Guns ‘n’ Roses, that too on foreign soil in front of a 20k+ crowd. More than anything, it was about the “Feeling”. Once again, a beautiful dream that got over too soon!
Q: At the UrRock Festival in Switzerland, you performed alongside acts like Nazareth and Kamelot. How does performing in Europe compare to playing for audiences back home in India?
Girish Pradhan: It depends on how you see it. If you’re performing at a proper, dedicated Rock/Metal fest in India, it would be quite similar to what we see in Europe as well. A crowd that wants to listen to your original music and support you. The people were really welcoming and just wanted to feel the music.
Q: Rock the Highway was listed among the top metal albums of 2020 by MetalSucks, and it has been praised for its homage to the 80s metal sound. What was the inspiration behind this album, and how did you approach its production?
Girish Pradhan: We wanted a much bigger sound for this. We had a lot of riffs we had written over the years, and some new ones. I think our main inspiration behind the sound was the fact that I was super deep into the early albums by bands like Dokken, RATT, Def Leppard during that time. But as far as the overall “Feel” was concerned, we would refer to bands like Megadeth, especially their latest album at that time, “Dystopia”. We had to go through a lot of tricks to get that big-sounding snare. We also featured the Ex-Dio guitarist, Rowan Robertson, on a song named “The Rebel”.
Q: Your most recent album, Hail to the Heroes, pays tribute to the rock legends of the past. How did you approach writing songs for this album, and what message did you want to convey to listeners?
Girish Pradhan: It was a dark time for the world and it reflects in the entire album. I started writing the title track’s lyrics as a tribute to the late guitar legend, Eddie Van Halen. Then soon I realized it was meant for all the rock ’n’ roll legends that we grew up listening to, while also being a tribute to the brave Covid Warriors we lost. At the end of the day, the message is clear. It’s about never giving up and seeing the light no matter what.
Q: The journey from releasing independent demos to signing a multi-album deal with Frontiers Records has been a long one. What challenges did you face along the way, and how did you overcome them?
Girish Pradhan: Girish Pradhan: Indeed it was. But I feel we were careless at times, or maybe we just saw things more as “Let’s just take a ride and see where it goes.” The re-release of Back on Earth with Universal India may have solidified our reach within India’s rock scene, but internationally, we were practically unknown. Kappa TV’s “Music Mojo” show did bring us some visibility, but overall, we hadn’t built the momentum required for international recognition.
Outside India, things were even tougher. Spotify wasn’t in India yet, and the streaming culture wasn’t fully developed here—YouTube was about all we had. We relied heavily on that platform to reach our fans, but without a label that could market us to the right global audience, putting out singles and albums often felt like a struggle with little reward.
Then, 2018 was a pivotal year. Technology started catching up, making remote work possible, and labels were beginning to embrace digital distribution. Everyone in the band started owning better equipment, the recording process evolved, and we were ready to test the waters again. We recorded and released “Rock the Highway” along with a video, just to share something new with our supporters. That’s when we started getting noticed by European labels.
Of course, I had my eyes on Frontiers Records, but convincing anyone at that time was tough. The idea of an Indian band doing ‘80s-style melodic rock and metal seemed improbable to most people. We eventually signed with a smaller label in Denmark, Lions Pride Music, in 2019. It wasn’t a big deal financially, but it was a strategic move to show we were a serious band, willing to work hard to be part of the European market.
After that, everything changed with the release of “Rock ‘n’ Roll is Here to Stay.” The song struck a chord with listeners, gaining major attention from platforms like MetalSucks and racking up millions of views within weeks. That song’s success was a game-changer for us, and that’s when Frontiers Records finally came knocking.
Q: How did the global pandemic affect your plans for Hail to the Heroes and the band’s momentum, and what adjustments did you make during that time?
Girish Pradhan: On the contrary, I think the pandemic had a positive impact on us. With people stuck at home, they were looking for entertainment and a sense of escape, and music provided that. Yes, we faced logistical challenges; we often had to record our parts individually in our home setups. I recorded most of the vocals in a small home studio I set up during the lockdown.
Even though it was a dark time for the world, I think it forced us to dig deeper musically and lyrically. This reflective period definitely influenced the themes of Hail to the Heroes. And while the isolation was tough, it also strengthened our bond as a band. Sure, we missed the energy of live shows and performing for our fans, but channeling those frustrations into songs like “Primeval Desire” gave us an outlet and kept the creative fire alive.
Q: Despite the ups and downs of the music industry, what has kept GATC motivated to keep pushing forward, especially during times when the rock scene in India has faced challenges?
Girish Pradhan: It’s simply the love for what we do. Rock and metal aren’t just genres for us; they’re our lifestyle, our identity. And it’s not just us—our families, partners, and even our friends are all part of this journey in some way. Everyone is incredibly proud and supportive, and that’s a huge motivating factor. It’s almost like we’ve built this tight-knit ecosystem around GATC where we all keep each other going.
But another major factor is our fans. We’ve got a dedicated following, and there’s this unspoken promise we feel towards them. We know they’re counting on us, and we can’t let them down. The support we’ve received keeps us grounded and focused on moving forward.
Q: As an Indian rock band that has made waves internationally, how do you see the role of Indian bands in the global rock and metal scene today?
Girish Pradhan: It’s an exciting time, honestly. Bands like Kryptos have paved the way by establishing a touring life before us, and then there’s Bloodywood, who are breaking records left and right. GATC is contributing by breaking stereotypes, showing that Indian rock and metal bands are diverse and serious contenders on the global stage. We’re in a place now where the rest of the world is finally taking Indian rock and metal seriously.
We get emails and messages from people who are genuinely surprised that there’s such a dedicated rock scene here in India. It’s been a long journey, but it feels like we’re just getting started on this global stage.
Q: How do you think platforms like YouTube and streaming services have helped bands like yours reach new audiences, especially considering the challenges of music distribution in the early days?
Girish Pradhan: YouTube was an absolute blessing for us. Coming from the Northeast, it’s hard to get any visibility on the national level, let alone globally. YouTube leveled the playing field, allowing us to reach a wider audience from our little corner of India.
Streaming services like Spotify have further expanded our reach, especially outside India. The world of music distribution has become so accessible; artists from any remote part of the world can reach audiences they could only dream of before. Platforms like these have really opened doors for independent and lesser-known artists to make their mark.
Q: What advice would you offer to younger rock bands in India looking to break into the international scene, based on your own experiences?
Girish Pradhan: First, focus on your own music. Create original material and invest time in honing your craft. Don’t just copy what other bands are doing; either find a unique sound or become exceptionally good at what you do. Consistency is key—release singles, albums, and stay active on social media.
Visibility is important, especially early on, so take advantage of every opportunity to reach your target audience. Remember, not every payment will be in cash. Sometimes the value comes in exposure, networking, and experience. And finally, don’t be afraid to take risks when opportunities come your way. Be open to experiences that help you grow, even if they’re not immediately lucrative.
Q: With the reissue of Back On Earth in 2023 and the release of Hail to the Heroes, what can fans expect next from GATC?
Girish Pradhan: The next phase for GATC is going to be different. Fans can expect a heavier sound, with a rawer approach to production. We’re always evolving, and I think our next release will showcase yet another side of us—one that’s more aggressive and unfiltered.
Q: Are there any upcoming tours or collaborations in the pipeline that you’re particularly excited about?
Girish Pradhan: Yes, we’re excited about the current tour we’re on right now, which takes us across Europe and back to India. It’s going to be an intense few months, but we’re looking forward to connecting with fans and bringing our music to new audiences along the way.
Q: As you continue to build on your legacy, what do you hope to achieve with GATC’s music in the next few years, both in India and internationally?
Girish Pradhan: Our main goal is to keep leveling up. We want to get into bigger festivals, open for more renowned bands, and reach a broader audience. Every step we take opens up new possibilities, and we’re committed to taking this journey as far as we can.
Q: Are there any special plans or surprises in store for fans during your set at this year’s Independence Rock?
Girish Pradhan: We’re all about giving fans a show they’ll never forget. If there’s a superpower we have, it’s making people rock their socks off, and that’s exactly what we’re bringing to the stage. We’re coming with everything we’ve got to make sure this performance is something fans will remember.
Tour Dates:
25/10 – Tröllhatten, Sweden – Backstage Rockbar
31/10 – Helsinki, Finland – On the Rocks
1/11 – Germany, Dortmund – Musiktheater Piano
2/11 – Germany, Frankfurt – Burghof Hühnerstall
6/11 – Netherlands, Weert – Poppodium de Bosuil
8/11 – Switzerland, Sarnen – UrRock Festival
10/11 – Italy, Paderno – Slaughter Club
16/11 – India, Mumbai – Independence Rock, Bayview Lawns
20/11 – Spain, Madrid – Revi Live
21/11 – Spain, Zaragoza – Sala Z
22/11 – Spain, Burgos – Fundación Círculo
23/11 – Spain, Lleida – Cafè del Teatre
24/11 – Spain, Castellon – Sala Terra
28/11 – UK, London – The Dev
30/11 – UK, Scotland, Troon – WinterStorm Festival
06/12 – India, Nagaland (TBA)
18/12 – India, Nagaland, Mokokchung
20/12 – India, Darjeeling – Mello Tea Festival
