Behind the Scenes of Carnatic Fusion Music Production
Creating music is a journey of blending my Carnatic roots with global sounds. Step inside my studio to see how we layer rhythms and improvise to build something new.
In the studio with some amazing folk percussionists from Karnataka. We were recording for my album 'Vari', and it was incredible to see them bring the sounds of our land into the music, right alongside my producer Michael League.
This is a little visual trip for my song 'Ranjani'. The video captures the kaleidoscopic nature of the music, where different rhythmic and melodic layers from Carnatic tradition are woven together in a contemporary way.
About The Creative Process: In the Studio
When recording for my album Vari, we spent hours in the studio with folk percussionists to capture the raw energy of Karnataka traditional rhythms. It is not just about layering tracks, but about finding that space where our local folk sounds meet modern jazz sensibilities, creating a conversation between the old and the new.
The creative process in the studio is where my musical world truly comes together. For my album Vari, the recording sessions felt like a jaathre, or musical fair. We brought in traditional percussionists from Sagara to work alongside international producers like Michael League. This collaboration is core to my sound. We do not just record instruments; we engage in a dialogue between Carnatic swaras and Western harmonic structures.
My approach to studio production focuses on maintaining the sanctity of ragas while exploring odd meters and polyrhythms. Students often ask me how I maintain this balance. The answer lies in listening. Whether we are transcribing a complex jazz solo or practicing traditional varnams, the goal is always to serve the music.
If you are interested in the technical side of this fusion, my masterclasses cover these specific topics. We explore how to apply Indian swara systems over Western chord changes and how to use vocal percussion, or Konnakol, to drive a track. It is a space for curious minds to experiment and grow.
Varijashree Venugopal
I am a seeker of music who finds joy in bridging the gap between deep-rooted Carnatic traditions and modern global sounds. My process is always about connection, whether it is working with a percussionist from Sagara or mentoring a student on vocal improvisation.
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