111It’s been a long time coming, the latest EP from progressive/Carnatic rock band Mothergen, launching May 21. Had it not been for the pandemic, it would have been released in 2020. “I learned a life lesson through this album to take the path of least resistance,” says drummer/percussionist John Thomas. “There’s no point in pursuing it, it will happen when the time is right. And I’m glad it happened now rather than before.” Work on the album was underway from 2013-14, gaining momentum in 2018-19.
It is Mothergen’s third studio release, the last being Maktoob in 2008. The 14-year gap between the two has been punctuated by singles, which include “Tribes of Babel”, “No Contest”, “Clayplay” and “Hello”. 111 There are three new songs and ‘Clayplay’. The current line-up consists of Clyde Rosario (bass), Niranj Suresh (vocals) and guitarist Anubhav Langthasa. 111 Was launched at a concert in Bengaluru.
“The 2011–18 period was one of turmoil for the band, with members leaving and newcomers coming in. By 2018 things had settled down and we were set. We needed a stable production team, combining weren’t working,” John explains the difference between their two albums. If, in the past, adding new members to the line-up was done early before a gig, this time he decided to take it slow. decided. “To be able to play with a band, more than talent, chemistry is important.”
Describing the title of the album, John says that it is considered an angelic number and has spiritual significance.
Produced by Rex Vijayan, the album’s songs feature Mothergen’s distinctive sound with Carnatic influence. “The songs are carefully designed with subtle sounds rather than in your face. I’d say it’s a modern take on the signature Mothegen sound. In fact, that’s the response we’re getting.”