In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian independent music, a fresh and intriguing sound is emerging from Pune. Producer and composer Ketan Bahirat is carving a unique niche with his latest musical project, masterfully blending the crisp, forward-thinking aesthetics of futuristic electronic hip-hop with the warm, nostalgic tones of vintage equipment.
The Alchemy of Old and New Sounds
Ketan Bahirat's creative process is a deliberate fusion of eras. His new four-track EP, titled 'The Only Way Out Is Through,' serves as the perfect showcase for this philosophy. While the compositions are built on contemporary electronic beats and hip-hop rhythms, their soul is distinctly retro. Bahirat achieves this signature sound by running his modern digital productions through a chain of classic hardware.
The centerpiece of his studio is a coveted 1973 vintage synth, the Roland SH-2000. This instrument, along with other analog gear, imparts a layer of organic warmth and subtle imperfection that pure digital sounds often lack. The tracks are further colored by processing through tape echoes and spring reverbs, adding a tangible, almost physical texture to the music. This technical approach results in a captivating contrast: beats that feel both cutting-edge and comfortably familiar.
Inspiration Drawn from Cinema and Isolation
The inspiration for this distinctive sonic palette is as eclectic as the music itself. Bahirat cites the scores of iconic filmmakers like David Lynch and the Coen Brothers as major influences. He is drawn to the way music in their films creates a specific, often unsettling mood—a quality he translates into his own instrumental hip-hop. The aim is not just to make people move, but to make them feel and visualize.
The EP itself was born from a period of personal introspection. The title, 'The Only Way Out Is Through,' reflects a mindset of confronting challenges head-on. Created during a time of relative isolation, the music became an outlet for processing complex emotions, transforming them into expansive, atmospheric soundscapes. Each track is designed to be a journey, inviting listeners into a richly detailed auditory world.
A Growing Niche in India's Music Scene
Ketan Bahirat's work is part of a growing wave of Indian producers who are looking beyond mainstream formulas. By marrying the futuristic appeal of electronic hip-hop with the tactile charm of vintage analog sound, he is contributing to a more diverse and experimental independent scene. His approach proves that innovation doesn't always mean looking solely forward; sometimes, it involves a meaningful dialogue with the past.
This synthesis of styles offers a fresh listening experience for audiences in India and globally. It caters to fans of lo-fi beats seeking more complexity, as well as electronic music enthusiasts craving deeper emotional resonance. As tools become more accessible, the barrier between vintage and modern continues to blur, allowing visionary artists like Bahirat to craft truly timeless music.
