SPOTLIGHT
TWO GROWN MEN AND SEVEN TRACKS
Ghost actor Utkarsh Ambudkar, also known as UTK, has teamed up with rapper Kaly for the debut of their EP Too Grown Men.
UTK and Kaly, in collaboration with producer Shankar Tucker, are thrilled to announce the worldwide release of their independent seven-track EP that is now is available on all major streaming platforms.
Too Grown Men is the culmination of two years of meticulous crafting and two days of intensive collaboration in the studio. Kaly, known for his sharp lyricism and unique storytelling abilities, blends his talents with UTK’s to deliver a project that is both nostalgic and mature in its themes.
Producer Shankar, renowned for his expertise in Indian classical and fusion music having worked with the likes of VidyaVox, Zakir Hussain, Shankar Mahadevan, and as the founder of ShrutiBox, adds an extraordinary musical depth to the EP.
Despite their long standing friendship, the trio had never worked together until the making of this album. The EP is a testament to their seamless creative synergy and ability to blend carefree vibes with profound narratives. Too Grown Men explores themes of heartbreak, struggle, and defying stereotypes, reflecting the personal growth and experiences of each of the artistes.
“It’s been a minute since I’ve been in a group, and Kaly and I had been talking about collabing again for years and I was feeling all of Shankar’s production ideas so I was excited to dive in with full focus and zero expectations,” says UTK. “The recording process was so easy. We built everything in the studio and wrote together as a trio. It all felt so effortless even though we were working our asses off. Every idea led to a new one, and the spirit felt easy and pure.”
The album drop comes on the heels of the release of their debut track Bring in the 808s that was released in April, giving fans a taste of the eclectic sounds and thoughtful lyrics that were to come.
“The first thing UTK said when he walked into the studio was, ‘Hey what’s up, I have an idea for a song... Here’s the lyrics: Bring in the handclaps, a couple snaps... oh wait we forgot the 808!’,” shares producer Shankar. “It was all a literal blueprint for the beat of the Bring in the 808 track, which I did my best to whip up on the spot. We all found a great energy in the room.”
Too Grown Men is a departure from the typical music one might expect from these accomplished artists. It’s a celebration of self-assurance and artistic freedom, unencumbered by external pressures. Vibrant, easy-going visuals are helmed by LA native Shahrukh Tailor.
“The act of creating this album, as two grown men who have had their own careers in other spaces; it shows you can do whatever you want,” explains Kaly.
“You have the most fun when you stop caring. I'm finally at that point. it feels effortless.”
Too Grown Men tracklist:
Bring In The 808s
Kill Me
Glass Bottles (prod. Tan Confetti)
Beat Juggler
All I Need f/ Rianjali
One Day
Thank You f/ Rianjali.
For more info on Too Grown Men and on how to stream the EP, visit https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow /kalyutkarshambudkar/too-grown-men.