Christelle Gualdi, better known by her stage name Stellar OM Source, is down in India for a tour with Red Bull Music. Her synth-heavy Techno music is described as lush and evocative. “There are recurring elements in my music: long bass lines, intense drum patterns and intricate compositions,” she tells us about her signature tunes. The French musician plays in Bengaluru this weekend.
While Stellar is a classically trained musician, she does not play by the rules. “Through the years, I realised that my academic knowledge was restraining me more and I slowly left it behind. I don’t need to analyse things and apply rules. Now, I let the sounds dictate the direction,” she expounds. Her songs, such as Polarity and Live, are both prime examples of her style. While her earlier tracks were more free flowing, her new music, which we will get to hear on the tour, is more structured and beat-driven.
India is not a new territory for Stellar. She was here earlier to learn Hatha Yoga. “I could say all that I knew about India was through the music and works of Pandit Pran Nath and Satyajit Ray, both of whom have influenced me greatly,” she shares. Spirituality is also a theme that is evident in her music. “I guess any art form addresses something higher than ourselves. I strongly feel this when I create or perform music,” she adds. While in the country, she is also planning to interact with Indian artistes, especially synthesiser-players. “I am curious to discover specific Indian sounds in Electronic music. As this interconnected world is getting homogenous, I always wonder how things retain a local identity,” she signs off.
Rs. 1,000 upwards. May 27, 6 pm. At Kitty KO, Kumara Krupa High Grounds
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