Runt Drop New Single Smashing Souls, Out October 26, 2025
Updated on: 25 September, 2025 01:49 PM IST | Arun Khambal
Coinciding with live performance at G5A, Mumbai as part of Big City Spiral
Mumbai-based alternative rock band Runt are set to drop their brand-new single Smashing Souls on October 26, 2025. The release will coincide with their upcoming performance at G5A, Mumbai, as part of the Big City Spiral gig series, cementing the track as both a studio and live milestone for the band.
A Catchy Yet Self-Reflective New Chapter
Smashing Souls builds on Runt’s signature mix of fuzz-soaked riffs and pop-forward melodies, delivering a track that’s as infectious as it is introspective. The title comes from a tongue-in-cheek nod to a spat between Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins) and Ed Roland (Collective Soul).
Lyrically, however, the single cuts deep—frontman Siddharth Basrur calls it “about being the architect of my own creative demise.” Written during the pandemic, the song explores themes of self-doubt, burnout, and artistic reinvention, echoing struggles that many listeners may find relatable.
Produced In-House, Powered by Collaboration
True to Runt’s DIY ethos, Smashing Souls was produced and engineered by Basrur himself, while guitarist Chandan Raina handled mixing and mastering. This collaborative in-house approach has become a hallmark of the band’s sound—raw, authentic, and close to the band’s creative vision.
Momentum Towards the Debut Album
The single follows a string of recent releases:
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Too Smart (October 2024)
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Racecar (April 2025)
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Like Jello, Only Stickier (May 2025)
Together, these singles are building anticipation for Runt’s long-awaited debut full-length album, which is expected to drop in 2026. Each track has showcased a different facet of the band’s alt-rock sensibilities—from social critique to tongue-in-cheek humor to pure fuzz-driven hooks.
A Band Rooted in the Scene, Growing in Scope
Formed in 2014 by Siddharth Basrur as a solo experiment, Runt has since evolved into a full-fledged four-piece with a reputation for hook-heavy songwriting and dynamic live shows. Their current lineup includes:
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Siddharth Basrur – Vocals, Guitar
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Chandan Raina – Guitar
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Deep RK – Bass
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Jeremy D’souza – Drums
Over the years, Runt has steadily carved out a niche in India’s alternative rock landscape. Their debut EP Rhymes With (2017) was named one of Rolling Stone India’s Best Indie EPs of the Year, while their instrumental single Last Breath (2020) was also featured in the magazine’s Top Singles of the Year list.
Channelling ’90s Alt-Rock Influences
With Smashing Souls, Runt taps into their love for the golden era of ’90s alternative rock. Drawing inspiration from The Posies, Helmet, Soundgarden, and Smashing Pumpkins, the track combines radio-friendly choruses with heavier, layered textures—a balance that defines their current sonic direction.
Why Smashing Souls Matters
This single marks a critical point in Runt’s journey:
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It’s their fourth single paving the way for their debut album.
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It captures their blend of vulnerability and power, a mix that resonates with both long-time rock fans and new indie listeners.
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By tying its release to a live performance at G5A, it creates a moment where fans can experience the track both digitally and in real time.
About Runt
Runt began as a creative outlet for Siddharth Basrur in 2014 and has since grown into one of Mumbai’s most promising alternative rock bands. With a discography that bridges DIY grit and polished alt-rock, they continue to evolve with every release. Their upcoming debut album promises to be their boldest step yet.
Follow Runt
Instagram: @runt.rants
Facebook: facebook.com/runt.rants
