Renowned for her contributions to the soundtracks of Kill Dil (2014) and 2 States (2014), musician Rasika Shekar is poised to unveil her latest work—an expedition into the deepest realms of her musical psyche. Committed to presenting an unadulterated expression of her creative essence, Shekar sequestered herself for a substantial three-week period in the serene environment of Banff. There, surrounded by the grandeur of nature, she dedicated her time to compose music in its rawest form, untainted by the constraints of her formerly self-imposed labels.
With her rich background that spans an array of musical styles and the rigor of Indian classical training, Shekar’s journey in Banff had one overarching goal: to introspect and distill the core elements that represent her true self as an artist. “The intention was to probe deep into the genres, ideas, and tonal dynamics that appeal to me as a creator,” she explains. The isolation provided her a unique clarity of thought, a prism through which her emotional inspirations and musical aspirations could be refined without the distractions of everyday life.
Embracing the solo stay with the discipline it demanded, Shekar faced the daunting challenge of structuring her days to foster productivity and creativity. “The solitude stipulated a level of self-discipline that initially felt overwhelming,” she reflects. “Establishing a working rhythm took a few days, but it was a transformative process. It was akin to holding a mirror up to oneself, confronting the swirling thoughts and the hidden facets of my creative spirit.”
During her stay, the journey to her remote studio involved a scenic 25-minute ascent—an intimate passage through snow-draped landscapes, greeted by the tranquil presence of wildlife. “Encountering deer and witnessing an array of exquisite birds became a common joy,” she reminisces. “As much as the experience fortified my understanding of why music is my calling, it also unraveled aspects of my identity that I had perhaps previously shied away from exploring.”
Shekar’s primary instrument, the flute—a monophonic catalyst thick with the melodies of Indian classical music—has been pivotal in shaping her early musical journey. However, her time in Banff allowed her to venture out of her comfort zone, especially in thinking harmonically. “It was revelatory to discover the potential of integrating more complex harmonies into the music that naturally stems from my melodic instincts,” says Shekar.
Her artistic inklings in Banff weren’t limited to any specific genre. A profound alignment with jazz, fascinated by its harmonic intricacies, meshed with her interest in the meticulous craftsmanship of electronic music. This blend gave birth to a concoction of sounds and emotions—new yet nostalgic. Shekar reflects, “I indulged in a process where theory took a backseat, and intuition led the way. I embraced a melody that resonated with the moment and then wrapped it delicately with harmonies to accentuate its beauty.”
From this creative incubation, Shekar has manifested four distinct tracks. Each is a tapestry weaving together strands from electronic music, R&B, jazz, and Indian classical music. These compositions are emblematic of her growth and willingness to transcend traditional musical boundaries in search of a sound that is inherently her own—a sound that is expected to captivate audiences with its authenticity and innovative fusion.
Shekar’s imminent musical release is not merely a collection of songs; it’s the culmination of a profound journey into solitude and sound. The retreat in Banff proved to be a pivotal chapter in her life, both as an artist and as an individual. It has enabled her to realign with her musical roots, explore new horizons, and articulate a voice current with her evolved artistic identity, awaiting the eager ears of listeners worldwide.
