Back in 1968, the Beatles were the biggest deal on the planet, but they were also totally burnt out. They packed their bags and headed to Rishikesh to find some peace and hang out with a guru. What happened next was pure magic. Sitting by the Ganges with nothing but acoustic guitars and sitars, they wrote almost thirty songs. It wasn't just about adding a "desi" sound; it was about the soul. George Harrison basically fell in love with Indian classical music, and that influence changed the DNA of the Beatles forever. It turned their music from simple pop into something deep, spiritual, and legendary.

Fast forward to 2026, and we’ve got Gorillaz doing something just as cool. Their new album, The Mountains, is a total love letter to India. Damon Albarn didn't just stay in a fancy studio; he really got into the grit and beauty of the local sound. You can hear the heavy, earthy thumping of the dholak mixed with their signature electronic beats. It feels like a road trip through Himachal Pradesh in a futuristic car. They even brought in local folk singers and Bollywood powerhouses to make sure the vibe was authentic, not just a cheap copy.

So why does India keep calling these artists back? It’s because Indian music isn't just a genre; it’s a feeling. Whether it’s the trippy sitar solos of the sixties or the bass-heavy Himalayan tracks on the new Gorillaz record, India has a way of making music feel alive. It’s proof that no matter where you’re from, a good "chune" and a bit of Indian soul are all you need to create something timeless.

We have been enjoying this album (and using some of it on our socials as you may have noticed!) this last week. If this was a review I'd give it a very strong 8. Love it!