A few years ago, the Indian band Aarlon dropped their debut album Dafan, melding metalcore, prog, post-rock, and Hindi vocals. It’s remarkably distinct and incomparable, but as emotional, powerful, and dynamic as the likes of Devin Townsend, Linkin Park, or Architects.
While all four members are key to the group’s strength, Pritam Goswami Adhikary (Kill the King, The Second Forvea) is hands-down the most talented vocalist in not only the Indian metal scene, but arguably the overall metal / rock history. His delivery in Hindi is genuine, distinct, and vulnerable. Guitarists Ritwik Shivam (Friends from Moon) and Piyush Rana as well as bassist Ankit Ganguly (Bandish) round out the current line-up.
The original release of Dafan boasted eight tracks with varying degrees of heaviness and catharsis. Some tracks fit perfectly in the modern metalcore scene, while others are more provocative of a 90’s alternative effect; it’s all together stellar. I struggle to choose favorites, but if forced, I’d nominate “Vidroh,” “Inquilaab,” and “Panchhi.”
Recently, the Delhi-based act have been treating fans to acoustic versions of a few tracks off the record – “Panchhi,” “Saavan,” and “Tu” unplugged are truly a sonic delight, and included on the freshly unveiled deluxe edition of Dafan.
Two new songs have been added in addition to all previous material getting remastered. “Tu Meri Maut” is a solid melodic metalcore throwback somewhat alike Killswitch Engage or Trivium, however “Haiwan” is the real gem here with Tesseract-like tension.
Overall, Dafan is undeniably a masterpiece for it’s beauty and dynamics; I cannot recommend it enough, especially this new deluxe version. You can listen now on Spotify.