Keralla, a Vienna-based Progressive Indie Pop/Rock band, emerges as a pillar of artistic integrity and ingenuity in the ever-shifting realm of music, where trends ebb and flow with relentless unpredictability. Reshaping the musical landscape with their debut single, “Wake Up”, Keralla was formed in the throes of a global pandemic. This ensemble is more than just a band; it’s a symphony of ideas, a convergence of cultural ethos, and a testament to the unifying power of music.
The brainchild of Daniel Hobmeier and Rafael Sun Kraus, Keralla was birthed in April 2020 in the historical and culturally rich city of Vienna, Austria. The band’s name, a nod to the Indian state of Kerala known for its harmonious coexistence of diverse religions, adds an extra ‘L’ for love, encapsulating the band’s core philosophy. Lionel Bozek’s addition in early 2021 infused the band with an additional layer of musical dexterity.
Each member of Keralla brings a unique flair to the ensemble. Daniel Hobmeier, the lead singer, a former DJ and event host, found his songwriting muse amidst the solitude of the lockdown. Rafael Sun Kraus and Lionel Bozek, both seasoned music teachers with bachelor’s degrees in their respective instruments, add depth and sophistication to the band’s sound. The trio’s synergy is a confluence of experience, talent, and passion.
“Wake Up“, Keralla’s debut single, is not just a song; it’s a revelation. It reflects the band’s aspiration to imbue listeners with “more energy for the joy of life”. The track is a masterful blend of minimalism and potency, a delicate balance achieved by few. The song’s enchanting melody, paired with Hobmeier’s evocative vocals and the immaculate instrumentation of Sun Raus and Bozek, creates a mesmerizing auditory experience. It’s evident that Keralla draws inspiration from a diverse array of musical legends such as Nirvana, Foreigner, Coldplay, Pink Floyd, and Oasis, weaving these influences into their unique tapestry.
The lyrics of “Wake Up”, penned by Daniel Hobmeier and Rafael Sun Kraus, speak volumes with their simplicity and depth. The recurring motif, “Wake up, wake up now. Even if you don’t care, why don’t you wake up now,” serves as a poignant call to awareness and presence, urging listeners to break free from complacency. The song navigates through a narrative of longing and companionship, encapsulated in lines like “You forcing me around to call again. I wanna wake up with you, my friend.” These words, coupled with the dynamic composition by Lionel Bozek and Rafael Sun Kraus, elevate the track beyond its musicality into a realm of emotional resonance.
The beauty of “Wake Up” lies in its simplicity. The singles composition, devoid of any superfluous elements, allows each component – from Lionel Bozek’s intricate guitar and bass lines to Rafael Sun Kraus’ rhythmic drums and piano – to shine through with clarity and intent. Completely in balance with hard-hitting lyricism and vocals, this minimalist yet powerful composition is what sets Keralla apart, making “Wake Up” not just a song, but a journey through soundscapes of mystery and power – and we’re here for it.
The accompanying music video, masterfully produced by Karl Neubart, is a visual spectacle that perfectly aligns with the thematic essence of ‘Wake Up’. Available for early viewing on YouTube, this video is not just a treat for the eyes but also enhances the song’s rich narrative. The music video brilliantly showcases Keralla’s artistic vision, blending a rich tapestry of visual storytelling with the song’s powerful lyrics. With its vivid use of nature, the play of wind, a palette of diverse colors, and introspective shots of the band, it’s a must-watch. This video, along with the track, creates an immersive experience. Together with Karl Neubart, the band skillfully conveys a strong image and vibe, highlighting their artistic talent.
As Keralla gears up for the worldwide release of “Wake Up” on February 9th across all platforms, the anticipation amongst their growing fan base is steadily climbing. This debut single is just the beginning of what promises to be an illustrious journey for the band. With a debut album in the works and more singles on the horizon, Keralla is poised to make a significant impact on the music industry.
Keralla’s “Wake Up” is more than just a debut single; it’s a statement, a manifesto of sorts. It’s a reminder that in the complexity of life, sometimes the most profound messages are conveyed through simplicity. As Keralla continues to evolve and create, one thing is certain – the world is waking up to a new dawn in music, and Keralla is leading the way.
For more about Keralla, visit their official website, watch their videos on YouTube, follow them on Instagram, or reach out for contact and booking at mgmt@kerallamusic.com.
