Indian" among four other bands saying, "On home-ish turf, the Mallu band's act becomes a colossal monster fuelled by the undying, unequivocal support of an adoring audience." The album Avial was also in their "Top 25 Albums of The 2000s", they commented, "It didn't matter that the songs had spent so many years in the cans – the band's sound, a brand of classic rock, garnished with elements of metal and electronica was fresh enough, but the vocals, sung in Malayalam further distinguished them from anything else around." Kerala-based thrash metal band The Down Troddence cited Avial as their main influence and inspiration. Rolling Stone India praised John's on-stage attitude and traditional attire. They commented, "John would only speak in Malayalam wearing his identity with a cool arrogance, and the audience shared his pride." However, they noted his "vocal flaws" after Paul's departure as lead vocalist during their first performance at Blue Frog, South Mumbai in 2011. They further said that none of John's flaws are present in the album or in any studio recording. They summed up the band as, "[Avial] will always be the band that shunned all norms – they released an all-Malayalam album as their debut and turned to their roots for lyrical and musical inspiration." Band members Current members Rex Vijayan – guitars, synthesiser (2003–present) Tony John – lead vocals, turntables (2003–present) Mithun Puthanveetil – drums (2008–present) Binny Isaac – bass (2008–present) Former members Anandraj Benjamin Paul – lead vocals (2003–2008) Naresh Kamath – bass (2003–2008) C.I. Joffy – Drums (2003–2008) John P. Varkey – guitar, songwriter (mid 90s) Discography Studio albums Avial (2008) This was their first studio-album Avial, released on 8 February 2008. Track listing Singles See also Indian rock Kryptos (band) Bhayanak Maut Demonic Resurrection Nicotine (band) Inner Sanctum (band) Scribe (band) Agam Indian Ocean Parikrama Pentagram References External links Pics: Avial Live at Blue Frog Delhi – May 23rd, 2012, from Rolling Stone India In Pictures: Avial @ CounterCulture, Bangalore, from NH7.in Indian alternative rock groups Musical groups established in 2003 Music bands from Kerala