Contirbutor‘Relic’ landed as the latest offering from Indian producer AATMA last month, arriving on the Lotus Lab imprint it showcased a unique blend of multiple genres for an inspired final result. We caught up with AATMA to get more of the story behind this release and more.
MI4L – ‘Relic’ is such a powerful blend of tradition and modern energy. Can you take us through the creative process behind the track? What inspired it?
AATMA – In my current approach to music, I always aim for a balance between traditional sounds and my latest inspirations. Whether it’s new sound design techniques or emerging sonic trends that excite me. For the traditional element, I’ve always been deeply influenced by Indian classical music, and the sitar has been one of my go-to instruments. If I had to describe it simply, I’d call it the Indian classical equivalent of a lead guitar. Relic was born from this fusion, melding the organic soul of the sitar with high-energy elements designed to ignite the dancefloor.
MI4L – The sitar melody in ‘Relic’ really stands out. How do you go about incorporating traditional Indian instruments into electronic music while keeping it fresh and club- ready?
AATMA – I rarely use samples in my music. Instead, I prefer working directly with instrumentalists in the studio to record everything from scratch. I might use a placeholder sample early in the process to structure the track, but once I bring in the instrumentalist, it becomes a completely open, collaborative process. I don’t interfere much with their creative flow because certain nuances, especially on an instrument like the sitar can only be achieved by a skilled player. This balance of creative freedom and teamwork is what brings tracks like Relic to life.
MI4L – Your music is known for fusing electronic sounds with Indian folk influences. What draws you to this intersection, and how do you approach finding balance between the two?
AATMA – Growing up in India, my influences were naturally split between electronic and classical music. I was raised on artists like Tiësto, Robert Miles, ATB, and Enigma, so melodies were always a core part of my musical DNA. At the same time, Bollywood films introduced me to the beauty of classical Indian instruments. Fusing these two worlds wasn’t a conscious decision, it’s just the most natural way for me to express myself musically.
MI4L – Your ‘Time’ EP has been a huge success, crossing a million plays. How has that milestone influenced your artistic direction moving forward?
AATMA – Beyond the numbers, what really motivates me is hearing from fans who tell me they start their day with my music or that a particular track resonates deeply with them. That kind of connection is priceless. Moving forward, I want to keep evoking that same emotional depth while pushing my sound further.
MI4L – Looking ahead to 2025, what can fans expect from you? More singles, an album, live shows? Any collaborations in the works?
AATMA – I’m almost done with an EP that’s very different from my past work. Honestly, I think it’s some of my best work yet. I also have some exciting collaborations lined up with close friends like Anyasa and Almost Human, which should be out in the first half of the year.
Beyond that, I’m working on a follow-up album. I have five tracks ready, but I’m taking my time with it because it’s more experimental and concept-driven. If all goes well, it should be out by the end of the year or early next year.
MI4L – What does your production setup look like? Do you have any go-to gear or plugins when creating your signature sound?
AATMA – I’ve been building my studio for the last 13 years, adding a little gear every year. At this point, it’s equipped with world-class synths and some really unique instruments. I’m a huge fan of sound design, so I love layering organic and electronic elements.
My go to vst’s lately have been Diva and Swar Plug. I also use a lot of Moog and Roland synths, which add a distinct texture to my sound.
MI4L – The electronic music landscape is always evolving. How do you stay inspired and keep pushing boundaries with your sound?
AATMA – Music is evolving faster than ever. Genres don’t dominate for decades anymore, like they used to. To stay fresh, I focus on my own sound design while blending influences from different styles. I also make a point of listening to new releases regularly. It keeps me inspired and helps shape my DJ sets as well.
MI4L – This latest release lands on your own imprint, what are the benefits of self releasing in this musical landscape?
AATMA – I’ve released music on some of the biggest independent labels, which has been great for exposure. But waiting on label approvals in the past has caused me to sit on tracks for so long that they started sounding outdated before they even saw the light of day. That’s why I started my own imprint, to have full creative control and release music on my own terms.
Running my own label for the last nine years has also given me the opportunity to support talented, up and coming producers who might not know how to navigate the industry. The label game is tough, and I want to create a space where creativity comes first.
MI4L – Do you have a dream collaboration—an artist, vocalist, or instrumentalist you’d love to work with in the future?
AATMA – There are so many artists who inspire me. Lane 8, A.R Raman, Deadmau5, Sultan + Shepard, Kite String Tangle, ATB, John Summit, Above & Beyond, and Bonobo are just a few names on my list.
MI4L – Finally, your music has a strong connection to both movement and emotion. What do you hope people feel when they listen to an AATMA track?
AATMA – I named this project Aatma because I want to make music that speaks to the soul. My goal is to create melodies that stand the test of time. Tracks people can come back to a decade from now and still feel the same emotion.
At the same time, I’m a DJ, and I love the energy of a dancefloor. My music combines both those elements, emotion and energy and that’s what defines an AATMA release.
AATMA’s ‘Relic’ is out now and available here.