Cinema VinesNeon Nights, a band that calls itself a collection of misfits, is set to light up The Piano Man in Safdarjung, New Delhi, this Saturday with a set that promises to turn familiar pop hits into fresh, live‑band experiences. The group, which came together in 2024, has built its reputation on energetic covers that range from contemporary chart‑busters to classic retro tunes, all reimagined through the unique blend of its members’ varied musical backgrounds.
The lineup features Lian Khuptong on drums, Jael Syuhlo and Asherie Zonunmawi sharing vocal duties, Joshua Constantine on guitar, Daniel Hatzaw on bass, and Lian Suanlal Guite on piano. In an interview, the band explained that their “misfit” label stems from the fact that each member grew up in different musical worlds—rock, retro, pop, soul, and newer styles—yet they found common ground simply by playing songs they all loved together. This spontaneous approach, they say, has allowed them to transform ordinary tracks into something that feels new and alive.
When asked what makes a song worth reworking, the band pointed to the initial excitement of the group. “If we’re bored playing it, the audience will be bored too,” they said. They then look for ways to add something the original didn’t—changing grooves, adding heavier or stripped‑down arrangements, rearranging vocals, or turning a polished pop track into a raw, live‑band feel. The result is a contrast that keeps listeners engaged, especially when familiar tunes are given a surprising twist.
Neon Nights’ debut at The Piano Man marks a significant step from their early garage jams to a professional venue. The band noted that the transition was swift and that performing in front of an audience changed their perspective on the music. What once felt like a simple jam became a focused performance where they could see which moments made people sing along and which needed tightening.
With the show slated for Saturday, fans in New Delhi can expect a high‑energy set that showcases the band’s knack for reinventing pop hits while staying true to the spirit of live collaboration. Neon Nights’ journey—from strangers in a room to a headline act—continues to unfold as they bring their misfit magic to the city’s vibrant music scene.
