Music video, to bring instrumental music to mainstream:Stephen Devassy

Comments [ 1 ] By Anita Menon | 04 May 2015 | 10:51am

In India, where many accomplished musicians do not release an album without vocals, here's a young, talented musician all set to release a wholly instrumental album. Stephen Devassy, one of the most accomplished pianists and keytar artists in the country, speaks to us about his path-breaking album titled Project 70.

Tell us a little about Project 70. Why the title?

The name 'Project 70' comes from the time frame set for the album's production - the "conception to execution" has been 70 days. Having nine pure instrumental tracks, this is an album comprising of 'orchestral and synthetic sounds'.

What are the highlights of the album?

I have used a huge string family of violins, violas, cellos, and double bass for some of the numbers. The album will feature piano solos as well. A wide range of emotions and feelings have been captured in the album. The track 'Mum's lullaby' stays true to its title and is soft and melodic. 'Aliens in the city' is a high energy track. Then there's a track titled Duana in Yaman. Duana means poem and Yaman is the name of an Indian raag. This massive piece will make one happy and up for dancing.

Tell us about the music videos. It's a first from your side.

I never thought about a music video actually. But then it occurred, with so much happening on social networks, maybe I can bring this side of music (the instrumental side) to mainstream, bring something other than Bollywood and R&B to the majority of masses, through a music video more effectively.

Did all the recording, including those of the orchestras featured in the video, happen when the music video was shot?

Yes, almost all of it was shot live. However, there was some post-recording done in the sound studio as well. For example, the drum set was placed too close to the strings and it caused some leakage. All these errors had to be rectified. The studio where video shooting was done was not exactly apt for sound recording you see.

Is there any particular person who is an inspiration for this album?

Project 70 has been inspired by L Subramaniam (ace violinist, composer and conductor). I have worked with him in many projects which also included making music for the London Symphony Orchestra and Global Symphony Orchestra.

You are one of the busiest performers. What's more thrilling, studio time or live performance?

I love to work in studios. I started with music production so that's my base. I have too many things in my brain that I want to put out before I die (laughs). So, studio is where all that happens. But I also grab at every opportunity. Even if it's a small show, I take it as a chance to connect with people who like to listen to my music. So from studio to stage, I've seen the journey but now I can't choose between the two, I love both equally.

Tell us about your upcoming tours and projects.

I'm working for a few South film projects. I'm also touring the United States and we are slated to perform at Florida, California, New York, New Jersey, Texas and Washington DC.

Check out the first video from Stephen Devassy's Project 70 on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Neve1CUDSwE

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