10 Best Indian Singles Of 2020

Exceptional songwriting, inspiring musicianship and stellar artistry stood out this year

- Anurag Tagat, David Britto and Nirmika Singh

10. Runt – “Last Breath”

From gritty distorted guitars, a mean bass tone, euphoric grooves and extreme dynamism, the song packs a punch

MUMBAI MUSICIAN Siddharth Basrur’s project Runt returned this year with new music after 2017’s EP Rhymes With. The latest offering is a pulsating heavy instrumental track titled “Last Breath.” Although the song is missing Basrur’s signature soaring vocals, it does have plenty of plus points. From gritty distorted guitars, a mean bass tone, euphoric grooves and extreme dynamism, “Last Breath” packs a punch. Basrur produced, mixed and mastered the entire track himself, even going as far as programming drums for the song. – D.B.

9. The Lightyears Explode – “Satire”

The indulgent production, synths and dreamy soundscapes makes for a fun and invigorating listen

Mumbai outfit The Lightyears Explode – comprising vocalist-guitarist Saurabh Roy, bassist Shalom Benjamin and drummer Jeremy D’souza – sound like a brand-new band with fresh electro-pop elements, catchy vocal melodies and songs that will make you want to dance rather than mosh on their recently released new EP Mellow. They kicked off this new era with the jumpy lead single “Satire,” which still retains the group’s crunchy guitar riffs, power-packed drumming, Benjamin’s distinctive bass parts as well as Roy’s signature vocal hooks. Add in the indulgent production, synths and dreamy soundscapes and it makes for a fun and invigorating listen. – D.B.