Brazilian producer and DJ Bhaskar has been making moves in recent times, working alongside his brother Alok as the A&R at his label CONTROVERSIA as well as releasing a string of impressive original music. I Want EDM caught up with him to get an insight into his inspiration, career so far and working with CONTROVERSIA…
1) When did you start producing music? and how long did it take for you to discover your talent and turn it into a career?
I started when I was 12, so it’s been 17 years now! I think the turning point was when I started producing. It took a few years to get something reasonably well-produced, but after that, I saw it was something I wanted to do for life.
2) What are your inspirations in electronic dance music?
I am inspired a lot by artists that got into mainstream with “underground” music. Probably my biggest references are Camelphat, Rufus du Sol and Flume, each one in a different way.
3) How has the last year been for you and what have you taken from the past year musically? Did you have a chance to learn a new skill?
I’ve learned a lot! Musically speaking, I think it was a great year. I’ve been producing stuff that I really like and had the chance to work with great producers… but I think what changed the most was my eyes for the music industry. I started creating opportunities differently from what I used to do to make money.
4) What is it like working with your brother, ALOK on CONTROVERSIA and being an A&R for the label?
It’s great! Musically speaking, we know each other really well, so it makes it easy to produce together. And it has been a pleasure to work with CONTROVERSIA. I Didn’t know I’d like being involved in A&R as much as I have, I’ve found a new pleasant way of working with music.
5) What do you mainly look for when signing new music?
CONTROVERSIA is basically a fusion of Brazilian Bass with these darker progressive/deep house vibes. But of course, we need to find uniqueness within an artists’ song, basically we must hear something fresh that still fits with our style.
6) Who is your standout artist to watch out for this year?
There are many that we’re working with closely, but 3 guys to keep an eye on are Kohen, Mojjo and Hawk. These guys are killing it!
7) What is your go to track at the moment?
From CONTROVERSIA, I’d say our last compilation (CONTROVERSIA vol. 1 by Alok) represents where we are at the moment. There’s a little of each style we believe works well for us. And from there my favourites are “100 Degrees” and “Honestly”.
8) When do we expect new music from you, and any more on CONTROVERSIA soon?
From me, every 2/3 weeks I’m releasing new stuff. My next ones are with Lucas Estrada and MOGUAI, I’m really excited for these ones! And CONTROVERSIA has at least one release every week, so loads of fresh good music coming soon!
9) What does the rest of the year look like in the life of Bhaskar?
Difficult question, but I’m trying to be optimistic and think of the next Brazilian summer with parties coming back. Until that comes, I will be working full time on my album, my masterclass, and of course spending as much time as possible with my family!
https://open.spotify.com/track/2fZzdlVov0vIviSSrVqKLh?si=573a2973e6564d5f