The lush landscapes of Goa have long been a magnet for artists seeking inspiration, and Susmit Sen, the celebrated composer-guitarist and founder of the iconic band Indian Ocean, is the latest to call it home. After spending years in bustling Delhi, Susmit relocated to Goa last year, bringing with him a legacy of raga-rock music and a passion for originality. His newest album, Azaadi, is set to launch at the Museum of Goa on January 25, 2025, a milestone of his artistic journey with his newfound connection to the state. This launch coincides with the Museum of Goa’s 10th anniversary year long celebrations, marking an important connection between art, music, and culture. Susmit’s Azaadi is poised to usher in a new age of creativity, art, and cultural exchange in Goa, blending his distinct raga-rock compositions with the vibrancy of the state’s heritage. This is a celebration of his musicality and Goa’s enduring spirit of artistry.
"I have always loved Goa," Susmit shares, his voice carrying a note of nostalgia. "Whenever I came here before, I always had a fantastic time. I like the beautiful beaches of Goa. And the greenery of Goa excites me.” The shift from Delhi’s urbanity to Parra’s tranquility has been transformative. "When we go for walks, there are paddy fields. It’s so peaceful. Our house is at the end of a lane with no traffic, and all these factors allow creativity to grow” he says.
Susmit has found the environment to be a catalyst for his work. "Staying in such close proximity to nature has definitely helped me creatively," he asserts. While the city’s recording studios might seem indispensable, Susmit has discovered everything he needs in Goa. “There are well-equipped studios in Goa," he notes. "I also found Miti Adhikari, the renowned ex-BBC sound recordist who has worked with bands like Pearl Jam and Nirvana. Miti produced the album and even played the bass guitar for it."
This collaboration has culminated in Azaadi, Susmit’s eighth studio album, of his 35-year-long career in raga-rock music. “The compositions of this album are different from whatever I had done before,” he reveals. The album Azaadi is a constellation of talents. It features MD Pallavi on vocals, including the Konkani song 'Saiba Tandela,’ Sudheer Rikhari on vocals and keyboard, Gayathri Natarajan’s piercing voice, Tatyana Dichenko on piano, Varun Gupta on tabla and percussion, and Carlos Gonsalves on drums and Ghumot.
One standout track of this album is ‘Saiba Tandela’ (Master Boatman), the first-ever Konkani song composed by Susmit. "Together, the tracks are a refreshing combination of contrasts, and yet, they carry my signature musicality," Susmit says with quiet pride.
"Goan musicians are some of the best in the country," he declares. "There are two aspects of music from this Konkan region: Western and Indian classical. You have legends like the Mangeshkar family, and countless others from the classical side. On the Western side, it is a hub of exceptional talent in instruments such as drums, bass, guitar etc. The Bollywood music of yesteryears was dominated by Goan musicians. During that time, composers, arrangers, and performers revolutionised its sound, they shaped the soundtracks of the era. They popularised harmony in film scores with layers of violins, trumpets, and guitars that became staples in Bollywood music. Their legacy of Jazz and Swing influences continues to influence India’s soundscapes even today.
Despite this wealth of talent, Susmit notes a gap. "One problem I find is that Goan musicians shy away from composing their own music. That’s why, in this new album, I composed two songs in Konkani, with poems by Umesh Sardessai, the son of the noted Konkani poet, Dr Manohar Sardessai. These poems celebrate the spirit of Goa and its people, capturing the essence of cultural vibrancy. This is my way of giving back to Goa for what it has given to me."
He believes this effort can inspire others. "I request all Goan musicians to compose their own music. Original compositions have the power to reflect our unique experiences and bring local stories to a wider audience. It’s time for Goa’s rich musical heritage to evolve and shine on its own terms."
Susmit is keen to guide local musicians. "I will be more than happy to do so," he says. "There are amazing musicians in Goa, and I keep track of emerging talents. I’ve been talking to a few of them. They have a fantastic level of proficiency in multiple instruments.” One such collaboration is with Carlos Gonsalves, a drummer who has been playing with Susmit regularly.
As Azaadi launches in January 2025, Susmit is celebrating his music, embracing a new phase of his life. "Goa has given me peace, inspiration, and a chance to reinvent myself," he reflects. The album, with its unique tracks and collaborative spirit, promises to be a landmark in his career and a tribute to the land that now nurtures his creativity.