Monsoon

Monsoon was a British Indian trio formed in the early 1980s, consisting of singer Sheila Chandra, multi-instrumentalist/producer Steve Coe, and bass guitarist Martin Smith. The band emerged during the new pop wave era, blending elements of pop rock and progressive pop with Indian musical influences. Their breakthrough came with the release of their debut single "Ever So Lonely", which reached number 12 on the UK Singles Chart in 1982. Directed by Midge Ure, the music video for their second single "Shakti (The Meaning of Within)" further propelled their visibility, although it narrowly missed the Top 40. Their third single, a cover of The Beatles' "Tomorrow Never Knows", featured notable guest appearances from Bill Nelson, Preston Heyman, Dave Balfe, and Merrick. Despite these successes, Monsoon disbanded in 1982 due to differences with their label, Phonogram. Post-breakup, Sheila Chandra pursued a solo career, while Steve Coe and Martin Smith continued their musical endeavors, often under the name Ganges Orchestra. Phonogram released Monsoon's only studio album, Third Eye, in 1983, which has since been re-released multiple times with additional tracks.