Phosphenes releases new album ‘Sleep on the Grass’

KATHMANDU: Kathmandu-based indie band Phosphenes has released its latest album, Sleep on the Grass.

Officially released on May 12, the album is now available on major streaming platforms worldwide.

Formed in Kathmandu nearly a decade ago without the support of a record label or commercial backing, Phosphenes has steadily built a loyal international audience through self-produced music and a distinct alternative sound shaped by both English and Nepali songwriting.

The band has independently recorded, managed, and marketed its music since 2016, developing a reputation for its self-sufficient approach to music production, visuals, and storytelling.

According to the band, Sleep on the Grass is their most complete body of work yet — a deeply reflective album that continues their tradition of blending emotional lyricism with experimental indie sounds.

The album features tracks including Sleep on the Grass, Pay the Bills, Forever June, Never Enough, I Know, and Existential Haze.

Behind the band are musicians Prajwal Aryal and Abhishekh Pokhrel, whose songwriting and production styles have shaped the band’s evolving identity.

Prajwal Aryal describes himself as a musical explorer inspired by existentialism, an influence reflected in the metaphors and symbolism woven through many of the band’s songs. Tracks such as Sullen Days, Hey!, Are You Gonna Leave Me, and Night explore layered themes and shifting emotions through symbolic storytelling.

Known for experimenting across genres, Aryal embraces creative freedom by challenging rigid musical boundaries and exploring new artistic directions.

Meanwhile, Abhishekh Pokhrel began writing songs at the age of 17, inspired by iconic bands such as The Beatles and Radiohead.

Combining imagination with personal experiences, Pokhrel has contributed songs including Yestai Nai Hola, Eklai Huda Ta Jhan, Bombay, and Lost at Sea.

He also played a key role in the band’s music production journey, contributing to Phosphenes’ first EP as well as later projects including the Sullen Days album and the Simit Yaad EP.