Not ever in the Coventry musical scene could we find another mysterious band with such unique multiform style and inspirational mixture of cultures like 3Q&t. The band's exploration of musical genres ranging from peaceful ballads to groovy rock melodies, combined with their lyrical brilliance and haunting vibes, marks them a rare musical genius from Coventry's alternative music scene.
3 Quarts & the Truth, as the full name of the band is, is a unique combination of nationalities and musical styles, as well as musicians with distinctive personalities. From the good-looking Nepali singer and songwriter with a sexy voice to the groovy curly-haired cutie-boy classical guitarist from Bulgaria, to the English Edward Cullen look-alike and drummer genius, and of course the inspirational Caribbean bass guitarist with an affinity for keyboards and a distinct sense of humour. A truly astounding mixture of international experiences, weaved together into a musical masterpiece. Established on an almost spiritual belief that ‘music is the universal language’, the band peaked at No.14 in the ReverbNation rock charts and boasted Facebook fans from 52 different countries – people with nothing else in common, besides music, unless they are wearing socks of the same brand.
So how did all this magic happen? It had been a few months since Nepali singer and songwriter Satyajit Pradhan and Indian guitarist Razin Farzan (Fuzz) were performing impromptu jam sessions in one of the tiny rooms in Priory Hall in front of mutual friends before they became a complete band, featuring drummer Quentin from France, Caribbean-British bassist Ash, Bulgarian lead guitarist Plamen, with Fuzz as the rhythm guitarist and Satya in front of the microphone. They had worked on a few covers and a couple of originals and were now ready to conquer the world, but had no name to call themselves. Standing with instruments in tow, the boys were daunted with the inevitable task of figuring out a name that would suit them best. Fuzz suggested Liquid Explosion much to the band's disapproval and prompted a few laughs as someone likened it to Borat. Ideas were hopelessly tossed around in the makeshift footpath brainstorming session. And then, out of thin air or the mouth of a drunken local, came '3 Quarts & the Truth'. In front of the Ellen Terry building between some of the local pubs in Coventry, as more and more cigarette butts were stomped on the ground and the frustrating possibility that the group might have to go another week without a name was becoming apparent, a drunk local wobbled towards the musicians and placed his hand on Satyajit’s shoulder. “Three quarts and the truth eh?” he slurred and walked off as if on cue. On that day, the band was christened 3 Quarts & the Truth and the drunken master was never heard from nor ever seen again.
 As most of the band's stories, this tale is as unbelievable as it is entertaining, with all the members nodding affirmatively that is was in fact reality. Or perhaps it was fate that day that put a hand on Satya's shoulder, as the musicians found so much meaning and significance for themselves in that name. When eventually they turned quartet, as Fuzz was promoted to listener and Quentin, who returned to France, was replaced by Robert Pattinson/Edward Cullen doppelgänger Ali Brown, the name found meaning in the Sanskrit translation of Satya carrying the meaning of truth and the number 3 to signify the number of members left. Quarts, on the other hand, deals with a liquid form of measure that is well-suited at representing their music. As liquid is, when poured into any vessel, taking its form, such is 3Q&t music – it could be funky and poppy, then bluesy and electronic, with lyrics that never fail to hold meaning and convey fundamental truths; ultimately the band's ideology to never restrict themselves to any specific genre, but to experiment and be musically open to any kind of music. The logo designed by Satya and Fuzz also holds special meaning, which is a secret even to the band members. “If you look at the way that the letters pile up”, he explains, “it is supposed to symbolise a goat. A horny goat at that... The Q is the face with the tongue out. The 3 and the & at each end are the horns and ears. While the bottom of the t, creates the nose of the character. I am a Capricorn, so the goat alter-ego makes sense and I have been called the 'horny goat' for many years now. Hence, the saying: 'From the land of the great himals (Nepal) I hail; Horny goat they call me, before me wags my tail'.”
From covers of The Beatles, Nirvana, Jack Johnson, Herbie Hancock and David Bowie, the band's originals include everything from dreamy ballad memories that remind one of a glistening sunset over a quiet ray of happiness through to rock and groovy pieces with blasting guitar solos and unique bass lines and, eventually, a hauntingly beautiful electronic track with the cooperation of producer Soul Defiance. The band's projects-in-process also included a metal number, an R&B project and possibly hip-hop collaboration with a Turkish rapper, but as Plamen and Satyajit returned to their home countries, 3Q&t was unable to expand their repertoire exploring those frontier genres.
3Q&t quickly gained popularity in the local scene with the catchy originals 'She' – a rhythmic tune with a rocky groove and well crafted lyrics; 'Sex Machine' – a funky rock-and-roll piece with high energy packed with attitude and mind-blowing guitar and bass solos; 'Margaritas' – a peaceful romantic melody with heart-melting lyrics and mellow musical notes and 'Learn to Feel' – one of them feel-good songs about being in love with a high happiness meter that inspire dancing in the open air under the warm summer rays. With songwriter Satyajit's rare poetic genius and ability to inject his music with meaning and liveliness, combined with the incredible musical talent of the other band members, 3Q&t creates versatility that is truly attractive – it's difficult to imagine the same band that performs lyrical romantic ballads such as 'Margaritas' could perform the rock piece 'Sex Machine' and interweave country and jazzy funky groove into the rest of their songs. Romanian female singer Marina Ragabeja, who assisted the boys in their live performances with her beautiful vocals, said the band creates special energy with their music, which one cannot help but listen to mesmerised. “To be honest, the music scene in Coventry is rich, but similar in terms of music genre”, she added. “What 3Q&t brings is new and refreshing; they way they approach music is different, you can't really pinpoint it to a particular type.” Eugene from Lithuania, one of the regular attendees on 3Q&t live sets, described their music as “great music which penetrates the ear with facility and leaves the memory with difficulty”, while Polish fan Emilia was astonished by the effort and passion they put behind their creations: “You can clearly tell that the melodies and lyrics come straight from their soul. They are real and are not trying to pretend. Seeing them on stage and listening them live can trigger a lot of emotions”.
3Q&t success is truly inspirational, having broken out in the Coventry musical scene. Having started in odd venues such as Habibi, the band went on to perform at 54 alongside other featured talent in a showcase of Coventry's best bands. For Satyajit himself, the local venues provided a different atmosphere, ultimately worth exploring. Whether an acoustic set at the Tin Angel or the Phoenix over a pint or a roof blowing performance at the Golden Cross or 54, he found enough bands that emulated current rock hits, really heavy numbers, or pure jazz that were all unique and enjoyable, which ultimately included local talent around town such as some brilliant singers/songwriters like Emma McGann and some amazing bands like Arabella. However, due to the lack of artistic creative publications in the area, gaining popularity is a difficult task and bands usually start out with support from their friends and the friends of their friends. Despite not having a huge friends' network, since none of 3Q&t band members was an actual local, their international and diverse acquaintances held enough support for the band to jump-start their music in Coventry and around the world. “There really isn't another way around this”, said Satya. “It is essentially the same everywhere, some places may have more opportunities than others though and the Coventry musical scene is relatively small compared to say Birmingham or London. Those would have been our targets to break into had we had more time as a band”.
3 Quarts & the Truth started as two friends jamming in a student hall apartment and turned into something that they might have imagined, but none of them probably expected. Their unrecognised members, their original name and logo prompted speculations among everyone who had witnessed their talent. Speculations led to theories and theories led to questions that inevitably led to music. Music that inspired and will continue to inspire those of us who have been fortunate enough to have been touched by their absolute brilliance, and under the haunting melodies of their beautiful songs lives the hope that the band will reunite and will go on in its quest to conquer the world, as with their musical talent and unique versatility, 3Q&t certainly has an incredible future ahead.
*Images by Satyajit Pradhan, Sophia Wong and Antoniya PetkovaLabels: articles, music |
created by: anty
|
| 8 comments |
I completely agree with everything written on this band. Their music is really amazing! And I know that they recorded it all themselves so I can only imagine what it would have all sounded like had they recorded with an amazing producer. I am hopeful too that they reunite someday and inspire us all once again. Can't stop listening to their songs. Didn't realize that singer was Nepali, he has one hell of a voice and is so cute. That drummer is just HOT!
I love all of there songs. Amazing band. 3Q&t 4ever!
This is great that props is finally given to Satyajit for his amazing writing. It is true that 3Q&t's music is amazing but what really made the band remarkable was the anchor that was Satyajit's 'rare poetic genius'. The songs have become timeless in our hearts not only because of the amazing instrumentals but because of Satyajit's amazing lyrics and his voice. I have heard it said too many times that the band is great because of this or that but rarely have I heard anyone mention the true reason why this band is brilliant and it because of Satyajit. I appreciate the detailed review of the band that I love more than anything that I can hear on the radio or see on TV. I am just another fan hoping these boys get the chance to display their talents to global audience at a larger scale. Reunion please.
KISSES!
I just wanted to said that Plam is the cutest boy in the world!
Everything said about the band is certainly not an overstatement. I understand that this is an article and so there isn't enough words to be able to include a review of all their songs, however I wanted to mention for those who don't really know that the song 'Queen' is a lyrical masterpiece, "Teardrops caressed you as the stranger undressed you till all you wore was a frown. As darkness consumed you, you searched for your crown..." and 'Dry Goodbye' is another unforgettable song with amazing music and great words... "Baby came to say she's sorry, a teardrop hangin' from her eyes... Baby said she's in a hurry, won't even let me ask her why... Then she said it's time to go... But baby, baby I don't know... You said I filled your heart with lies... Baby, let me dry your eyes..." Does that tell you story or what? I want a reunion too.
|
< leave a comment |
< < back to homepage |
| |
|
|
|
I completely agree with everything written on this band. Their music is really amazing! And I know that they recorded it all themselves so I can only imagine what it would have all sounded like had they recorded with an amazing producer. I am hopeful too that they reunite someday and inspire us all once again. Can't stop listening to their songs. Didn't realize that singer was Nepali, he has one hell of a voice and is so cute. That drummer is just HOT!