Seldom is one confronted with lyrics so straightforward. Delhi-based singer and songwriter Nishtha Sachdeva’s debut album Minor Epiphany was highly anticipated by many. Bare lyrics layered with refreshing percussions and soulful guitar solos, tie up the package nicely, thanks to producer Saibal Basu. Perhaps wanting to have a little something for everyone, the album incorporates the trademarks of a few genres, while wanting to maintain its soul standing.

One summer at the Berklee School of Music, scared her off music, directing her towards her other creative inclination, fashion. However, not being able to stay away from the stage, she began performing live again while receiving her education at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in Mumbai. Once she managed to stare down her fear of music theory, she studied Voice at the LA Music Academy under Modern Jazz drummer - Tony Inzalaco, seven-time Grammy Award nominee - Tierney Sutton and Family Guy - famed Ralph Humphrey. Drawing inspiration from British rock bands - Queen, Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, The Doors, Alanis Morissette, Porcupine Tree, Portishead and Coldplay, Sachdeva has woven a love-struck persona which she introduces in this collection.

The mostly English album, barring two quick Hindi lines closing Don’t Let Go, features seven uniquely concise songs. Add to that a mildly amusing cover of Michael Jackson’s Human Nature, the inclusion of which can only be explained as a tribute to Dorian Holley, a vocal coach she shared with the King of Pop himself, during her time at the LA Music Academy.

Minor Epiphany begins with the final stage of grief – acceptance. The official video to the title track By Your Side picturizes a closure of sorts, an acceptance of a relationship that quite wasn’t. The simplicity of the music arrangement ensures that the focus remains on the message. Balanced-soul-searching-meets-easy-listening.

Ranging from resentment to the blues of wanting the love of a bad boy, Nishtha explores most facets of a romantic saga. A rather impressive track Stones in Vain tells the harsh truth of idol worship with a caress. Another personal favorite, Don’t Let Go is a sweet love song that gets your attention with its classic rock influences. Surprisingly, the plainness of the lyrics really works for this particular track better than the others. The crisp album closer Here Right Now happens to have marked the beginning of songwriting for her at the age of 18.

While Basu deserves a pat on the back for making the album worthwhile, I still wonder if the music will work just as well when performed live. Nevertheless, with a voice that stands out so naturally, comes the promise of an interesting evolution of sound, especially in collaboration with some of the other Delhi-based projects.

Rating: ***

Reviewed by Disha Deshpande