MUMBAI: Akshay Chowdhry and Sumant Balakrishnan (Bala) belong to that set of musicians to have dedicated their entire focus and purpose to their co-founded project since its inception. Barefaced Liar was born when the duo, out of their sheer love for rock and roll, wanted to do more than just buy CDs by their favourite artists or attend local gigs. Since its formation, the band has not only made the kind of music it was based upon, but also won accolades and appreciation along the way – factors that have kept them rooted in the music they believe in. In its journey of thirteen years, the band has released one album, played at major venues and enhanced its technical skills, coupled with songwriting. The Delhi-based duo now has another reason to celebrate – the launch of their second album.

Barefaced Liar exclusively released ‘Mind Over Matter’, the title track from the new album, on Pepsi MTV Indies and YouTube. The lyrics of the song carry a certain appeal that is relatable to all - urging listeners to overcome the fears and embrace the unknown. The subtle intro, followed by heavier riffs, is yet another example of how easily Barefaced Liar can traverse through sub-genres without sounding repetitive. A video for the track, which was released last month, has even garnered close to one lakh views.

The duo has a compatibility that comes with years of playing together, and an understanding they possessed since day one. “Sharing the vocal responsibility depends on various elements” says Chowdhry. “It’s usually first come first serve”, jokes Bala, who has provided the lead vocals for the album’s second music video ‘All I Have’. The song once again proves the band’s versatility in the genre, with Bala nailing the vocals, and Chowdhry effortlessly joining in with an impeccable solo using a bottleneck, eventually pushing the sound beyond pop-rock.

With this album, Barefaced Liar has focused on its strengths, although ensuring it is not as indulgent as the previous album. For the duo, giving Zorran Mendonsa production responsibilities was a no-brainer. Having worked with the New Zealand based producer before, the band has developed a chemistry with Mendonsa which makes him more than ‘a guide’.

“Amazing producer” the duo expressed “he does not like to rush things and his knowledge has been fruitful, and that can be seen here, just like in the first album.”

Chowdhry and Bala started work on the album in 2013, but spent months enhancing and perfecting the pre-production effort.

Although Barefaced Liar’s sophomore album comes 5 years after its self-titled debut album, the band has gigged extensively and has also been active on social media. “We love playing live. We did it when we were nobodies and will continue to do so.” The band hopes to promote its new album with a tour, and is currently working out a schedule to do so. Surely not a bad option, considering the number of fans the band has amassed since hitting the gig circuit. Barefaced Liar has played at NH7 Weekender, Harley Rock Riders and has also opened for Hoobastank – a few of some amazing achievements that they take pride in.

“We have evolved personally and professionally” said Chowdhry, “but, at the end of the day, when we hit our jam rooms, we are still the same guys riffing and rocking our socks off.”

The band has an undivided opinion on the evolution of music, and share the same fear for Rock n Roll. “Look, we love modern, progressive rock and playing on the stage. It is essential for Rock n Roll to survive.” Barefaced Liar is one of few Indian bands that remind you of the energy and rock-and-roll-esque sound of the 90s. And although music has been evolving with technology, the band has maintained a consistent approach to the kind of music it creates, which has so far, been a success.

Although Barefaced Liar has overcome competition from bands of similar genres, today it faces a new challenge in the shape of evolving music and genres. The band does not ‘fear’ the change. In fact, there probably is no better time than now to ‘embrace the unknown’.

‘Mind Over Matter’ consists of 9 tracks, slated to release this month, but fans can now buy tracks from the album on OK Listen!