Effortlessly fusing genres to create a soundscape that blends electronica, electro-rock, folk and ambient, music producer and composer Donn Bhat was in the city to perform at Humming Tree recently as part of a multi-city tour post the release of his second album.
Donn played with his band Passenger Revelator, did some Bollywood in between and then onto the sophomore album, also called Passenger Revelator , which came eight years after his successful debut album One Way Circle . A genre-defying, live experimental electronica producer and composer, Donn believes his sound is gravitating towards the experimental electronic space where the music remains live.
Having played in Bengaluru, Donn says his previous gig was very special. “This time it’s more interesting because I have different people on board with a new set. That keeps it exciting and it’s great to play in Bangalore where people really know how to appreciate music. They are not the kind that are only listening to dumbed down electronica and that is really encouraging.”
On how EDM has changed with more and more artistes going live, Donn says: “We have come a full circle from replacing a band to coming back to the live act. It goes to show it is an art to be a DJ. You get the same feel now with a live DJ that you get with a live band.”
“I didn’t have much time to write until recently so I intend to make the most of it and keep bringing out new music. That’s evolution for me. I ultimately want to surprise myself. My songs should interest me and give me that initial spark. These kinds of things usually happen when we make mistakes, spend time and keep trying to get that sound I haven’t got before.”
On how it all started, the 32-year-old says music was an escape for him. “I was always listening to music and used to dance a lot. When I got a guitar, my urge for music became stronger. Soon, from covering other people’s songs, I decided to play my own music. It caught on like a drug and I’m still doing it because I’m addicted to it.”
What inspired the name Passenger Revelator? Donn says one of his favourite songs was ‘The Passenger’ by Iggy Pop. “I heard it in college and it stayed with me all along. It really connected with me through my journey and it’s got a cool rhyme to it. Moreover, I believe music should reveal something to you.”
Would he recommend his path to anyone else as a career? Donn says people should think about music only if that’s all they can do. “It is going to be tough. Your primary inspiration is you love music and you can’t do anything else. That’s how you’ll survive the hard times.” He adds to upcoming musicians: “If you feel like you can, then go for it and don’t think twice. Say what you have to say and do your music your way.”
His take on the future course of Indian music is simple. “It’s mixing up. Globalisation is already happening and people are becoming more aware. There is also great hope for people who speak a local language in India and connect with the people.”
