SHIMLA, INDIA / NU-METAL • GROOVE METAL

SUM NEGATIVE

ELECTRONIC PRESS KIT / 2026

THE BAND

From the hills of Shimla, Sum Negative is a four-piece metal band blending nu-metal aggression, groove-heavy riffs and a dark theatrical live presence.

Drawing from Slipknot, Korn, Limp Bizkit, Marilyn Manson and heavier progressive influences, the band brings together driving guitar compositions, bass-led grooves, forceful vocals and precision drumming.

30 MIN

ORIGINAL SET

A focused, high-intensity set featuring original compositions.

120 MIN

ORIGINALS + COVERS

A full-length set combining original material with metal and nu-metal covers.

THE LINEUP

VARUN VALENTINE
GUITAR / PRIMARY COMPOSITION

VARUN VALENTINE

The driving force behind Sum Negative’s sound, Varun is a self-taught guitarist, primary composer and dedicated analogue gear enthusiast. His journey began with Nurotia and the three-track EP BLINK. Inspired by Dave Mustaine, Zakk Wylde, Slipknot, Meshuggah and Tool, he combines thrash precision, crushing grooves and progressive complexity. His gear includes an ESP LTD EC-256 and Peavey 6505.

AMAN MANSON
LEAD VOCALS

AMAN MANSON

A natural-born performer with a commanding voice and unmistakable stage presence, Aman is a self-taught vocalist and acoustic guitarist. Drawing inspiration from Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie, Hatebreed and Slipknot, he brings raw aggression and theatrical intensity to Sum Negative. Beyond the stage, Aman is also a tattoo artist.

MANISH BEHEMOTH
DRUMS

MANISH BEHEMOTH

The rhythmic backbone of Sum Negative, Manish is a dedicated drummer whose discipline and passion drive the band’s live sound. Also a member of Shimla thrash metal band Deathknell, which has two full-length albums, he draws inspiration from Igor Cavalera, Mario Duplantier and Mike Portnoy. His versatility and commitment power the band’s crushing grooves.

ISHAN MAYHEM
BASS / PRIMARY LYRICS

ISHAN MAYHEM

Bassist and primary lyricist Ishan shares a musical history with his elder brother Varun, dating back to Nurotia. Together they shape the band’s creative core. Inspired by Geezer Butler, Justin Chancellor, Ryan Martinie and Paul Gray, he plays a Warwick RockBass through an Ampeg Portaflex PF-500. He also releases socially conscious solo music as Inukun, including Mere Haaq Ki Ladaai (24 July 2026).

MUSIC / RELEASES

Bait single artwork
DEBUT SINGLE / 31 OCTOBER 2026

BAIT

Official single and music video. Other original compositions include Whisper That Haunts and Genocide.

LIVE / ON STAGE

09 MAR 2024 — MARS / SHIMLA
25 OCT 2024 — FREAKS ON STAGE / DEPOT 48, NEW DELHI
09 NOV 2025 — RETURN OF THE FREAKS / DEPOT 48, NEW DELHI

LIVE VIDEOS

Sum Negative Surfacing (Slipknot Cover)

Sum Negative SIC (Slipknot Cover)

Sum Negative Convicted in life (Sepultura Cover)

Sum Negative MARS Aftermovie

BOOKING / PRESS

Festivals • Clubs • Support slots • Headline shows

sumnegative@gmail.com

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