The electrifying return of 13AD to the music scene is set to unfold at their comeback concert on April 6, ending a hiatus that lasted 28 years. This event is poised to be a significant moment for enthusiasts of the pop-rock genre as one of India’s pioneering bands revisits its roots. Once the pride of Kochi, 13AD’s resurgence is eagerly anticipated, with fans and the music community alike abuzz with excitement.
Established in 1977, 13AD began its journey by performing English cover songs at the Hotel Sealord. With time, their captivating performances won them a loyal fan base and catapulted them to national fame. This rise to prominence was particularly marked by the success of their albums ‘Ground Zero’ and ‘Tough on the Streets’ during the early 1990s, which are still cherished by their admirers.
Following their soaring popularity, 13AD moved to Muscat in the mid-1990s. However, facing inevitable challenges and undergoing several changes within the group, the band members eventually decided to take a sabbatical to explore personal interests and further their individual careers. Despite their absence, the reverence for their music remained, with notable figures like A.R. Rahman and actor Mohanlal extending their best wishes for 13AD’s return.
The band’s influence persisted over the decades and resurfaced in popular culture, as seen in the 2022 film ‘Bheeshma Parvam’. The song ‘Parudeesa’, featured in the movie, prompted renewed interest and dialogue about 13AD’s legacy. The band members themselves have acknowledged this moment as a pivotal ‘stepping stone’ leading to their revival.
13AD of today showcases a blend of long-standing and fresh talent, with George Peter delivering powerful vocals, Eloy Isaacs on guitars, and the vibrant keystrokes of Jackson Aruja on keyboards. Rhythmically underpinning the group are Pinson Correia and Floyd Libera on drums with Pauly Joseph complementing on bass guitar. This ensemble is set to bring alive the iconic tracks from their albums once again.
In addition to revisiting the past, the band is poised to introduce ‘Nothing has Changed’, a new single composed by Deepak Dev, a dedicated fan turned prominent music composer. This addition signifies that the group’s creative spirit remains undeterred, bridging the gap between their classic sound and contemporary influences.
The concert, slated to be held at the picturesque Lakeview Ground of Sacred Heart College, Thevara, promises more than a mere nostalgia trip. Echoing the diversity of their fan base, the event will feature a mix of both vintage hits and modern renditions, including a selection of covers that will resonate with fans across multiple generations.
Amongst the global rise of pop culture and digital music trends, the return of 13AD is not just a refreshing breath of nostalgia; it acts as a testament to the enduring quality of their craft. From their beginnings in a local hotel to a stage set for a grand comeback, the journey of 13AD is a compelling narrative of passion, perseverance, and the timeless allure of rock music.
As the sun sets on April 6, the Lakeview Ground is expected to become a melting pot of emotions, memories, and melodies. Fans young and old, new and steadfast, prepare to witness a spectacle that promises to encapsulate the essence of a band that has transcended time. The return of 13AD is not just the resurgence of a band; it’s a celebration of the undying spirit of rock in India, echoing through the ages and igniting the hearts of music lovers once more.
