Instant Karma, an electrifying duo ensemble, consists of the versatile Omi and the multi-talented Ostency. Formed in 2022, this dynamic pair combines their diverse backgrounds and experiences to create a musical experience that’s both unique and engaging.
Meet the Members
Omi, a qualified Mechanical Engineer, now dedicates himself full-time to music. His journey into the world of music wasn’t a sudden decision but rather the culmination of years of experience in various bands and setups. Omi’s transition from engineering to music showcases his deep passion and commitment to his craft.
Ostency, on the other hand, balances her musical career with teaching young children at a school. Her ability to juggle these two roles reflects her dedication and versatility. Both members bring a wealth of experience to Instant Karma, enhancing their performances and broadening their musical range.
The Genesis of the Band
The inception of Instant Karma was driven by a shared desire for a more intimate and personalised musical setup. Having both been involved in multiple musical projects, Omi and Ostency sought to create something truly their own. In 2022, they united their talents to form Instant Karma, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their musical journey.
Musical Style and Genre
Instant Karma’s music is a testament to their adaptability and range. While their experience allows them to perform across various genres, they particularly excel in Western, Bollywood, and Goan music. This versatility enables them to cater to diverse audiences, making each performance a unique experience tailored to the crowd’s preferences.
What Sets Instant Karma Apart
One of the key aspects that differentiate Instant Karma from other acts is their versatility. Whether it’s a lively pub gig, a traditional Goan wedding, or an Indian destination wedding, the duo seamlessly adapts to the occasion. Their ability to shift genres and create an engaging atmosphere sets them apart in the competitive music industry.
Memorable Performances
Instant Karma’s performance history includes over 500 gigs, each contributing to their growing reputation. A particularly memorable moment was their first private gig, which occurred shortly after they formed the band. Despite having been together for less than a week, the opportunity to perform at this intimate gathering was both gratifying and significant in establishing their partnership. Additionally, they have performed at corporate events for companies like PayTM, Audi, Sony, Boston Consulting Group, and Adani, among others. These corporate gigs require them to make an immediate impact in a short performance time, a challenge they enjoy taking on.
Preparing for Live Performances
Preparation is crucial for Instant Karma, whether for a regular gig or a private event. For familiar venues, they follow a set routine. However, for new or private events, they arrive at least two hours early to assess the venue’s acoustics, positioning, and overall setup. This thorough preparation ensures that they deliver the best possible performance. Although they used to do vocal exercises before performances, they now focus on other aspects of preparation.
Challenges of Live Performing
One of the primary challenges of live performances is gauging and understanding the crowd’s mood. Instant Karma excels in adapting their playlist to fit the crowd, which can be particularly challenging when faced with a diverse audience. Despite the difficulties, they relish this aspect of performing as it keeps them engaged and responsive.
Favorite Venues and Events
Instant Karma enjoys performing at venues that are vibrant and full of life. Regular gigs at places like Martin’s Corner, Mike’s Place, and Mickey’s are always a hit. Additionally, they have cherished private gigs at venues such as Beleza, Casa Colvale, St. Regis, and Park Hyatt Hyderabad, where they even rang in the New Year.
Audience Interaction
Interaction with the audience is a key element of Instant Karma’s performances. They believe that a lively, engaged crowd enhances the overall experience. They strive to make shy audience members feel comfortable and build a connection through small talk and engaging with the crowd. This interaction is crucial for creating a memorable and enjoyable performance.
Role of Improvisation
Improvisation plays a significant role in Instant Karma’s performances. They often extend medleys on the fly to maintain the flow of music and keep the crowd dancing. This flexibility allows them to adapt to the crowd’s reactions and ensure that the energy remains high throughout their set.
Unexpected Moments
Live performances are often unpredictable, and Instant Karma has had its share of surprising moments. One notable instance was at a destination wedding where their performance ended by 10 PM, but the rituals continued due to the priest’s insistence. Despite this, they managed to entertain the guests who were present, highlighting their ability to handle unexpected situations with grace.
Handling Audience Requests
Instant Karma’s name reflects their approach to handling audience requests. They make an effort to accommodate song requests, even if they’re not familiar with them. This responsiveness not only pleases the audience but also adds an element of spontaneity to their performances.
Lessons Learned from Performing
The biggest lesson Instant Karma has learned is the importance of satisfying the audience, especially for bands not yet known for original hits. Balancing personal preferences with audience expectations is crucial. Additionally, they’ve learned that not every show will be perfect, and it’s essential to stay relaxed and focus on delivering a great performance the next time.
Staying Connected with Fans
To maintain a connection with their followers, Instant Karma regularly posts updates about their shows on Instagram and Facebook. This engagement helps them stay in touch with their fans and keep them informed about upcoming performances.
Future Goals and Aspirations
Instant Karma has both short-term and long-term goals. Their immediate aim is to add new songs to their repertoire and finish editing their performance videos. Looking ahead, they aspire to release original music and secure their first overseas gig, hoping to expand their reach and impact in the music world.
Conclusion
Instant Karma is a duo that embodies versatility, passion, and a deep connection with their audience. Their ability to adapt to various musical genres and environments, combined with their dedication to engaging performances, makes them a standout act. As they continue to evolve and achieve their goals, Instant Karma remains a band to watch, with exciting prospects on the horizon.
