Boston-based indie-pop artist Varun Sheel enters the new year with a bang, unveiling his latest single, ‘Wasteland’—a high-energy, rhythm-infused anthem that bridges Bollywood melodies with the infectious grooves of K-pop. Known for his genre-blending sound and evocative storytelling, Sheel once again delivers a track that is both sonically compelling and emotionally resonant.
Following a breakout 2024, where tracks like ‘More Than Friends’ and ‘Over You’ showcased his seamless blend of 1980s synth-pop, Bollywood undertones, and grand orchestration, Sheel continues to build momentum. Wonderland Magazine has already hailed him as a “rising star” in indie-pop, praising his ability to craft melodies that transport listeners across cultures and emotions.
‘Wasteland’ draws heavy inspiration from the dynamic world of K-pop, incorporating a punchy bassline, a driving beat, and an upbeat, danceable energy. The track was born from Sheel’s admiration for a specific chord progression he encountered in the genre—an idea he then transformed into his own signature style, seamlessly melding Bollywood influences with contemporary pop production. The result? A song that feels globally inspired yet deeply personal, striking a perfect balance between nostalgia and modernity.
With ‘Wasteland,’ Sheel solidifies his reputation as an artist who refuses to be confined by genre. Inspired by The Weeknd, Jung Kook, and Troye Sivan, as well as modern Bollywood producers like Salim Merchant, he crafts a sound that embodies the best of these influences while maintaining his own signature dreamy melodies and refined production.
‘Wasteland’ is more than just a single—it’s a statement of artistic evolution. As Sheel continues to blur musical boundaries, one thing is clear: his sonic vision knows no limits. For fans of alt-pop, indie electronica, and cross-cultural fusion, this track is a must-listen.
