The Hoodwink Circle – Band Profile

The Hoodwink Circle is an eclectic mix of performers from all over Bombay, and is a super-group of some sorts. The members also play for or have played for bands like Louis Banks, Toufeeq Qureshi, Shibani Kashyap, Ash Chandler, Nandoo Bhende, Merlin D’souza, Gino Banks, Echoes, Defying Gravity, Para-Vayu, Sheldon d’ Silva, Susie Q,Devoid,Fiddle me this etc.; and have come together to pursue their true musical roots, which are primarily based on Funk and it’s derivations. The members truly believe in the power of music, and firmly believe that complex music can be understood by the average listener. The band’s music reflects this very sentiment.

Formation

The band was initially called Wasabi, and gained local fame by competing in a few college competitions here and there. However, just about a year back, around October 2008,Lead  guitarist Sanju and bassist Ishaan were united through the Nandoo Bhende Band; and the band hasn’t looked back since. With more than 11 original songs under their belt, they are looking forward to playing more shows in the circuit and eventually recording and releasing an album.

Influences

The band’s primary influence is unanimously the Red Hot Chili Peppers , John Mayer, Toto  and Buddy Guy. Other influences are funk artists such as Stevie Wonder, George Benson etc. In addition to the funk influences, the guitarists in particular are heavily influenced by progressive artists such as Dream Theater and Porcupine Tree.

Original Compositions

Every song takes the listener to different zones, with elements of most genres being incorporated in the music; along with a strong funk overtone.

Performances

All the members have played all over India and even internationally at some level; however as a band, they have concentrated on their music, and are yet to play at big venues as The Hoodwink Circle.

Members

The Hoodwink Circle is a 4 piece band:

Aidan Lewis (Vocals): Known more for his vocal depth and tonality rather than his range; Aidan commands the stage with his broad stature. His strengths lie in his lyrical ability and the much-crave ‘blues feel’ that vocalists strive for.

Sanjeev Aguiar (Lead Guitar): The ever-funny guitarist from Thane, Sanju is known for his impeccable technique and distinct style. His playing style encompasses elements from various genres, especially metal blues and jazz.

Joshua Vaz (Drums & Percussion): The most accomplished member in the band, Joshua has a wide repertoire of styles under his belt; The son of illustrious drummer and percussionist Franco Vaz and grandson of India’s legendary drummers, Leslie Godinho and Francis Vaz, it was inevitable that Joshua would carry the rich musical legacy into the next generation. He  has played with the most noted musical names in India such as Taufeeq Qureshi, Shibani Kashyap, Manasi Scott,  Merlin Dsouza, Gino Banks, Nandoo Bhende, Suchitra Pillai, Floyd Fernandes, Giovani, Asheley Quinne, Ravi Chari, Ravi Ayer ,Nilesh Dahanukar, Sanket Naik, American singer song writer Daniel Tyler

He has also recorded with the London based ‘Drum And Bass’ group Shiva Sound System and arranged rhythm sections for a couple of Bollywood songs, has also toured with many Indian classical dance troupes

He has won the all India Best College Drummer, twice in a row and now has his sights set on the professional world. etc. He is known for his ‘killer grooves’, and tight drumming style.

Ishaan Krishna (Bass & Backing Vocals): At 20. Ishaan is the youngest member of the band. He is given a free rein with respect to bass lines and solos, and these are encouraged by the other band members. He has a variety of styles under his belt, from aggressive slap bass to melodic progressive st

Genre:

Funk. Although THC has music influenced from all genres, the most notable genre styles are Alternative Rock ,Blues Funk. There are derivations of other genres in their music, but the primary blues and funk feel is clear, and this is what they base themselves on.

Stage Performance:

Always energetic on stage, the members of THC are known for their on-stage antics. With a 6-piece band, finding space on stage is always hard, but the members compensate by grooving in tandem, with their trademark stop-and-go routine.

Covers:

With the biggest influence on their music being Funk and Funk artistes, THC naturally tend to cover such songs. The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stevie Wonder, George Benson, Incubus, John Mayer and other such blues funk artistes are a favourite of theirs. Other artistes- Porcupine Tree, Vinnie Moore, Joe Satriani, Paul Gilbert, Buddy Guy, Jonny Lang, John Mayer Trio, Audioslave, Maroon 5, Jamiroquai.

Contact Numbers:

Ishaan Krishna – 9920330320

Joshua Vaz – 9819258432

Sanju Aguiar – 9920217118

Aidan Lewis – 9833285165

Email:

Ishaan_scorpio@hotmail.com

joshnikova@yahoo.com

lightsofheaven@gmail.com

aidan.lewis.7@gmail.com

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