When Hush Falls is the solo project of Guwahati, Assam, India-based musician Rajarshi Boro. He’s just hit my radar thanks to the release of his debut EP. Inspired by Himalayan landscapes, history and everyday human struggles, it’s called Clean Slate.
By Graeme Smith
Rajarshi’s sound brings together the classic rock of The Beatles and Pink Floyd with modern dream pop such as Cocteau Twins. All distilled through his personal lens, the result is quite unique and utterly spellbinding. His debut EP started out as a collection of acoustic demos which took on new life during the pandemic, being born again in his bedroom studio as what we hear today.
The EP opens with This Place and there is an instant dreaminess about it. The vocals give an emotional edge with their passionate delivery and the lyrics are captivatingly reflective. There’s a sense of timelessness about it which will attract the attention of music lovers of all ages. It’s a great start.
Blue Skies Yellow Lands opens stripped-back and airy before arriving at a percussive groove. Echoing guitar notes create a rich soundscape. Be Here Now is a beautifully meditative piece that sits at the heart of the EP. Its ethereal layers will transport you to a state of bliss. It’s a highlight.
The Things You’ve Seen brings with it some sultry bass that underpins a powerful, story-rich track. Meadows closes the EP with a soft and ponderous finale. Its lyrics are full of natural imagery that will paint a picture in your mind while the instrumentals are blessed with a tinge of psychedelia. It’s another highlight.
With this debut, Rajarshi has unashamedly showed us his soul, and it provides a beautiful introduction to the When Hush Falls sound. If you’re a fan of the softer side of classic rock, you’re going to find a lot to love about it. Likewise if you’re looking for something to help you relax and feel today.
Clean Slate was mixed with the help of Simon Papdopoulos at Soulgroove Studio. You can give it a listen below.