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Anish Sood, now known as Anyasa, an electronic dance music producer hailing from Goa, is carving a unique niche by blending Indian classical music with modern electronic sounds. Starting his career at 18, he quickly rose to prominence and became the first Indian artist signed to the prestigious Anjunadeep label. His debut EP, Gaya, released in 2021, marked a significant turning point in his artistic journey. Anyasa’s innovative sound has garnered critical acclaim, earning him awards, including the highly prestigious Independent Music Award in 2018. His journey from a mechanical engineering student to a celebrated DJ and producer reflects a deep-rooted passion for music that has evolved over the years.
Tuning in to Anish: Here's a look at his journey
A Melodic Journey
Sood was immersed in music from a young age, growing up in a musical family, with both his father and uncle being jazz guitarists. His early exposure to jazz laid the groundwork for his later exploration of electronic music, which began in high school. Influenced by artists like Armin van Buuren and Daft Punk, he found inspiration in the vibrant dance music scene of the mid-2000s. “The early sounds of Defected and Ibiza’s classic house played a crucial role in shaping my style,” he recalls.
Perfecting The Fusion
Sood’s music is an intriguing blend of classical and modern styles. He typically starts by laying down a melody or hook idea using keys, which form the emotional core of his tracks. Collaborating with classical musicians allows him to incorporate improvisation into his work, reflecting the fluid nature of both classical and electronic genres. “There’s really no fixed structure in classical music, similar to electronic music,” he notes, highlighting the freedom it offers for artistic expression.
Describing his music as melodic, euphoric, and uplifting, Sood emphasises the importance of creating an aural journey for listeners. He aims to fuse current global dance trends with an identity that resonates with Indian classical roots. “I try to find a balance between sounds that are popular and those that reflect my heritage,” he explains. This approach not only showcases his versatility but also highlights the rich tapestry of influences that shape his sound.
Reinventing & Reclaiming
Anish reflects on a transformative period during the COVID-19 pandemic that reshaped his musical journey. “I was involved in mainstream vocal house for over a decade but found myself losing passion for it.” The onset of the pandemic presented a unique challenge, forcing him to confront his musical identity and explore new creative avenues. He took a bold gamble by incorporating Indian classical vocals into his work, an experiment that emerged from a desire to reconnect with his roots and passion for music. This shift not only revitalised his artistry but also led to the successful launch of Anyasa, which has since garnered acclaim for its innovative blend of traditional and contemporary sounds. As he navigated the uncertainties of live touring during COVID, Sood discovered a silver lining: a renewed sense of purpose and creativity that has propelled him to new heights in the global music landscape.
Finding Synergies
One of Sood’s standout collaborations is with renowned sitar player Asad Khanji on the track Shiva Valley from his 2023 EP Apollo. This partnership exemplifies the seamless integration of traditional Indian instruments into electronic music. “Getting him to jam on this Goa trance-inspired rave track was fascinating,” Sood shares. The collaboration not only enriched the track but also reinforced his belief in the similarities between electronic and classical music.
Sood is also keenly aware of the emotional impact of music on audiences. He recalls powerful moments at international festivals where fans expressed their connection to his work despite language barriers. “It proves that music transcends borders,” he reflects, underscoring its universal appeal.
Onwards & Upwards
Looking ahead, Sood sees immense potential for growth within India’s electronic music scene. He draws parallels between the current interest in House & Techno in India and the rise of EDM from 2013 to 2016. However, he cautions against oversaturation in the market: “Promoters must focus on building sustainable experiences rather than just selling tickets.” He advocates for a two-way relationship between artists and fans, emphasising community building as essential for long-term success.
As he prepares for an exciting year ahead—with plans for a new EP and potential album—Sood remains committed to evolving his sound while staying true to his roots. His vision is clear: to create immersive musical experiences that resonate deeply with listeners worldwide. Sood’s journey as Anyasa is not just about making music; it’s about crafting narratives that connect people across cultures through sound.
Read the full story on ELLE India’s new issue, or download your digital copy via Magzter.