October Roots Vol-1 2026, organised by CaveMEN Production in partnership with Colours Graphic and Acoustic Wave, brought together emerging artists and established performers at the State Academy Hall, Kohima, on Monday.
According to a press release the event was sponsored by Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) Ward-19 councillor Medoviu Martin Suohu, the concert featured solo artists Athong LK, Kongkhao Shiu and Gladys, along with bands AFTERTONE, WAY UP, White Riot, Shoelace Untied and DCY (Dream Carries You). Old School Nagaland performed as the guest band, while Sheduto of Fifthnote and Choseo of Ntdote made special appearances.
The concert featured a mix of indie, pop-rock, punk, classic rock and progressive rock, reflecting the diversity of contemporary music in Nagaland.
Indie singer-songwriter Athong LK has been promoting Yimkhiung-language music through songs such as “NÜ LANG (Only You)” and “Amüzho”, highlighting the role of music in preserving indigenous languages and cultural identity.
Kongkhao Shiu, a 20-year-old singer, has performed on platforms including You Got the Voice Nagaland Season 2, Artistic Gala and the Hornbill Festival with the Nagaland Folkloric. Gladys, originally from Meluri and currently based in Kohima, also featured among the solo performers.
Among the participating bands, WAY UP, a five-member indie pop-rock group from Kohima, was formed through friendship and a shared passion for music. AFTERTONE also emerged from a group of friends who regularly jammed together. White Riot draws inspiration from classic and soft rock, while Kohima-based Shoelace Untied represents the punk-rock genre.
DCY, short for Dream Carries You, is a progressive rock band formed in Nagaland in 2026, bringing together members with a shared interest in creativity and musical expression.
Guest band Old School Nagaland featured Moa Imchen on lead vocals, Lichen Kichu on lead guitar, Yanger Imchen on bass guitar, and Kilang Walling on drums and vocals. The organisers acknowledged the participation of Sheduto and Choseo and thanked sponsor Medoviu Martin Suohu, along with partners Colours Graphic and Acoustic Wave, for supporting the initiative.
The concert provided a platform for emerging musicians to showcase their abilities, gain exposure and connect with other performers, while bringing together artists from different musical backgrounds. The initiative also highlighted the role of local music events in nurturing homegrown talent and encouraging creative expression in Nagaland.
