Bollywood is love with Delhi. Its entire history is filled with songs that the industry has serenaded the city with. This love for the capital has also bled into the homegrown hip-hop revolution. Understandably so, when you reach into the complex, rich and historical lore of the city that makes up its identity. In yet another homage to the culture that shaped them, Bloodywood has just released their latest track — 'Nu Delhi'.
Bloodywood was born in 2016 when guitarist-producer Karan Katiyar and vocalist Jayant Bhadula joined forces to create a band with the intention of 'destroying pop songs'. This was a little after he was already putting out metal covers of Bollywood songs. As they evolved, the band's sound took a serious turn, blending pounding riffs, Punjabi dhol, flute, and other folk elements into something uniquely Indian. Their album, Rakshak, packed with heavy tracks like Dana Dan (which even made its way into Dev Patel’s movie Monkey Man), showcased a band that wasn’t just about experimenting, but more about making a genuine mark.
With Nu Delhi, Bloodywood dives even deeper into its roots, channeling the pulse of New Delhi into the track. The song’s music video is a thrilling tour through the city, with guitarist-producer Karan Katiyar and videographer Kushagra Nautiyal capturing Delhi’s bustling markets and iconic landmarks. The video even features cameos from local music heroes, including rap duo Seedhe Maut’s Encore ABJ and Subir Malik of Parikrama fame, on harmonium, giving the track a communal air. Merging roaring metal and traditional Indian instrumentation, an art they’ve refined to perfection, the track is an addictive, high-energy experience that encapsulates Delhi’s extremes.
This new single also marks an important chapter for Bloodywood. After achieving massive success as an independent band, they’ve now signed with Fearless Records, a big move for the Delhi foursome. Bloodywood’s journey is an inspiration to Indian metal fans and artists alike, proving that heavy music can thrive and make waves from anywhere, including a city that’s not always synonymous with metal. Nu Delhi is the band's proclamation that metal is not only still alive in India but has also become a part of our already eclectic musical identity across the global arena.
Follow Bloodywood here and watch their new music video below.
If you enjoyed reading this, here's more from Homegrown:
‘Maati’ Is A New Project Highlighting The Magic of India’s Diverse Musical Traditions
Kimthebeloved's New Single Captures The Grind & Ambition Of The Homegrown Underground
Akshara Invites Listeners Into Her ‘Orbit’ With Her Ethereal New Pop Single