MUMBAI: Guitarist Vishnu Kumar, former vocalist for Delhi-based hardcore band IAFWAY, is working on new sounds and new tracks for his upcoming alternative instrumental act- May Island. The alternative metal band, which was formed in May 2014, features Kumar on guitar along with Aaron Almeida on drums. While the music of May Island is composed by Kumar and Almeida, it is mixed and mastered by Karan Singh Braria.

"There were a lot of guitar riffs that I had been working on for a long time, and I needed somebody to give me a finished sound to the tracks. Enter my school-mate Aaron Almeida, who I have known for a really long time. With his help, and that of our producer, Karan, we have developed a few tracks," said Kumar. Since the inception of May Island, the alternative act has released one track 'August' in November last year. On 10 June, May Island released its second track 'Stone, Spirit' exclusively to Rolling Stone India.

Speaking on the music of May Island, Kumar said, "Through May Island, we aspire to make something that encourages listeners to go do something. If someone is feeling low or needs uplifting, we want them to listen to 'Stone, Spirit' or 'August', and feel like getting up and doing something. We would love if our music had application in the listener's life." He further added, "We do not want to restrict our music to one particular label. 'Stone, Spirit' is very intense, while 'August' is soft is comparison. Since our music is entirely instrumental in nature, it is imperative that our music is powerful and that its sound really communicates with the listener."

Kumar also said that the band has four more tracks almost ready, and is finishing work on its fifth track, 'Memory Man'. Describing 'Memory Man', he said, "It has more of a pop rock style to it, but the song is still alternative rock. It fits in the music zone of the American pop rock band – Parachute." Kumar also hinted that May Island might redevelop 'August', but with vocals.

He added that the he wants to get May Island to perform at as many gigs as possible. Since May Island's music features more guitar than anything else, the band will have one drummer and three guitarists for live performances. For this purpose, Kumar will serve as lead guitarist, with Almeida on drums and Braria on bass. Kumar also said that the band is looking for another bassist. He further added that May Island will be performing in Gurgaon soon; the band's first ever live show.

Although he grew up listening to hardcore rock, Kumar has always been an alt-rock fan, and of late, has developed a fondness for pop music. Coldplay, Paramore, John Mayer, Ed Sheeran and Bruno Mars are some of the artists he listens to. He also said that Almeida's playlist includes Opeth and Limp Bizkit.