Asif Khan Inc.

Overtures in Outer Space – Half Step Down

The name of Half Step Down’s album, if nothing else, seems to promise intergalactic missives. Or maybe the recollections of a drug addled journey. Luckily, when you lend your ears to “Overtures in Outer Space”, it works to be neither. A journey of classic rock n roll with its roots laid firmly into the sound which defines what Delhi based HSD has come to stand for through these years, OIOS doesn’t disappoint. Those who would have known them through their live performances, would be pleased to find their live staple tracks “Girl Not Guitar” and “Knocking (at the back of my head)” being given due space on the album. Though the title sounds a bit sacrilegious, “Girl Not Guitar” contains some good blues driven string work. “UKJ” makes a twist by employing a slightly heavier approach as compared to the rest of the album. “Not for Sale”, “Working Hour” and “Roll Over” provide good company, while the title track brings the album to a conclusion beautifully. The lead for the album though would be reserved for “Knocking”, after all it has kept live audiences enthralled, and the recording is no different.