The day before their highly anticipated sold-out performance at the Royal Opera House in Mumbai last week, the pop duo Nischay Parekh, one half of Parekh & Singh, shared his thoughts on the significance of performing at such a prestigious venue. Expressing enthusiasm, he remarked, “It is a perfect setting for the show, especially since we’ll be performing with a string quartet. This is music that is going to be enjoyed by an attentive and engaged audience. The moment you enter the theatre, you are disconnected from the sounds of the street outside. Looking at the interiors and the way the seats are stacked, straight off the bat you know this is a place to share art.”
Indeed, art was shared as the Kolkata-based dream pop duo graced the stage in their distinctive dark mustard suits, presenting songs from their well-received debut, “Ocean,” and offering a glimpse of new tracks from their upcoming sophomore album. Since their breakthrough with “I Love You Baby, I Love You Doll” and its Wes Anderson-inspired music video, Parekh & Singh have captured audiences across the country with their Pantone-hued sharp suits, whimsical songwriting, and layered melodies that evoke a range of emotions and memories.
Parekh elaborated on their approach to creating music, emphasizing the flexibility of pop music as a genre that works well for them. He takes charge of the loose song idea, sections, lyrics, and harmonies, with collaborator Jivraj adding rhythm and pulse. Signed by Peacefrog Records, a London-based independent label, the duo gained attention during their UK tour in May, where their aesthetic choices became a focal point in press interactions.
When questioned about their tie to Wes Anderson’s aesthetic, the duo expressed weariness, signaling a desire to move beyond such comparisons. Despite minimal stage banter at their shows, Parekh believes in letting the music speak for itself. He emphasized the power of vulnerability in songwriting, especially as a young songwriter, stating, “When you write about yourself, it can ring the truest with an audience and resonate with them.”
Reflecting on their debut album “Ocean,” which delved into themes of childhood, daydreaming, young love, and belonging, Parekh revealed that their upcoming untitled album takes a different direction. Describing it as futuristic, he shared insights into new topics explored in the songs, such as “Surgeon,” inspired by the Higgs-Boson particle and humanity’s unique ability to make discoveries. Another track, “Sunbeam,” touches on overcoming diseases and immunity, showcasing the duo’s diverse thematic approach.
As evidenced by the enthusiastic applause at the end of their Royal Opera House performance, it’s clear that Parekh & Singh continue to captivate their fans with their evolving musical journey.