In India, Switchfoot Found 'Family Halfway Around The World'

NEW DELHI: They came all the way from the U.S. to regale their Indian fans and, on their maiden tour of the country, members of the hugely popular alternative rock band Switchfoot felt they had found a "family" far away from home, says frontman Jon Foreman, who is drawn to Indian classical music.

Comprising Jon (vocals, guitar), Tim Foreman (bass), Chad Butler (drums), Jerome Fontamillas (keyboard, guitar) and Drew Shirley (guitar), the band performed at Hard Rock Cafe in Mumbai, Pune and New Delhi last month as part of their tour in India through Micromax Vh1 Rock Rules.

The concerts drew enthusiastic crowds.

Talking about the crowd at their performance, Jon told IANS: "It was similar in a lot of respects. My favourite thing about music is that it brings people closer together. And to feel like family halfway around the world, that was incredible."

Jon has an affinity towards Indians.

"There are wonderful crowds. I've always found my friends who are from India to be beautiful people with a special spark in their eyes. It was amazing to be able to sing along with Indians in Mumbai... People really like rock and roll down here.

"Music, for me, is a communal experience and when you feel that connection, that's special," he added of Switchfoot's Mumbai performance.

Jon has been to the country once before and he is glad to have returned with his band members.

"I have always been fascinated by Indian culture and music. I have a harmonium and a tanpura. I came here a few years back and went to Delhi and Lucknow. I'm glad that I brought my bandmates with me this time," he said.

Read More: Government Will Ensure Complete Freedom Of Faith: Modi
Nudge Staff To Give Up LPG Subsidy: PM To Banks, Corporates