MUMBAI: Radio Mirchi Bangalore has re-invented itself with a new image, new sound and fresh programming as part of its second anniversary.

Sandalwood music, which has seen a revival in Bangalore in recent days, is also at the core of Mirchi's revamped programming.According to Mirchi's Cluster Programming Head, Karnataka and Kerala Jimmy Xavier, "Sandalwood music is seeing a revival with many influences as reflected in some of today's hits like Jinkey Mari Na (Nanda Loves Nandita), Ba malaya ba (Accident), Kaddalu manasanna (Mussanje Maathu) etc.

Recognizing this changing soundscape of Kannada music we decided to change the new sound of Mirchi with influences from hip-hop, rock and pop. We have also incorporated various changes in each of our shows that we hope will be liked by our listeners."

Adds Mirchi's Cluster Business Head, Karnataka and Kerala Rahul Balyan, "When we decided to become a station with 100 per cent Kannada content, there was some apprehension since the popular perception was that Bengalooru preferred Bollywood. However we persisted with what our research suggested and today we enjoy phenomenal leads in listenership share. In Mirchi, we closely listen to what our listeners want and we felt that Mirchi's second birthday was a good occasion to re-invent ourselves. The new sound of the station is younger, hipper and very contemporary in its appeal."