If someone asked me to describe Naxatras ‘ music in one word, I would choose the phrase psychedelia without a second thought. They recently returned from a very successful European tour together with Puta Volcano, having their new album “IV” in their luggage, which we will enjoy live on Friday, 13/5/22 at Fuzz. I had the chance to chat with them about their music, career, future, views on the Greek scene, and what we can expect at their upcoming live show!
First, I will start by congratulating you for "IV", which I consider your most mature work. Two years of quarantine, yet the music you have created seems to travel; where did you draw inspiration for your latest creation?
Naxatras: Thank you! The inspiration came from the fact that we added keyboards and synthesizers and had many ideas going towards progressive rock and concept albums, so we started working in that direction even before the pandemic.
Anyone who has listened to your discography notices a tremendous consistency and constant evolution. How easy or difficult is it to keep your character and, at the same time, take it one step further?
We try to be honest with what we play, having kept some elements that are the band’s identity. From there, we look to present anything new in musical influence through our own filters and incorporate it into the Naxatras sound so that it can evolve, too.
I know you have been asked dozens of times about your name (Nakshatra is the 28 phases of the moon in Hindu astrology.) I would like to know if this choice hides a love for space.
Yes! We always wanted our music to bring images of space into the listener’s mind. Also, the sound of the word fits with the band’s eastern influences and is one of the main characteristics of our sound.
Your music seems to be taken from another decade. Still, even though it respects the past, it embraces the idiom in a new and unique way that makes it unique. Is this something you have pursued? Did you have a clear "want" from the beginning, or were you playing music as a group, and it all just came about through your individual influences?
It was both, but ultimately, it came about by playing and trying to be true to what we play and what sounds are most alive in each of us individually to bring them together.
II, II, III, IV and on you go. I'll be somewhere in XI if we have this conversation again in 6-7 years. Does it ever occur to you where you'll be then?
It is a likely outcome. But one of the following albums will have a title.
You have European tours, studio albums, millions of views, sold-out shows, and more in your CV. Do you ever take a breath to say a thumbs up to you for what you have accomplished?
We get a lot of compliments from the people who listen to us and come to our shows, and that’s the best kind of kudos we can get. We need to know that our music touches people, and they, in turn, support us in continuing to do what we do.
Has there been a single time in your career when you thought about quitting and getting a "regular" job? Were any narrow-minded perceptions or obstacles around you that put you in such false dilemmas?
Yes, there have been those thoughts because our living times are not the best. But we have an appetite and want to keep creating and sending music.
Your effort and talent have brought you to a remarkable point; what advice would you give to a band just starting out?
To spend many hours in the studio and find your identity and sound. That’s where it all starts.
We are going through a golden age of the Greek scene where more and more bands are being embraced on a European and international level. Does this come from years of evolution, or did we happen to have a good batch of bands?
Both are true. But because there was indeed an “explosion”, I think the second is more valid.
The audience is the alpha and omega; ultimately, it's all about that. How do you see the Greek audience? Do you agree with the perception that more and more people are embracing alternative sounds?
The Greek audience is excellent, and we always feel strongly about their acceptance! Yes, the alternative element has influenced a lot of people’s listening, and that’s very positive.
After two difficult years, everything shows we are slowly returning to a concert reality. How did you experience all this? Has something changed for you?
Nothing has changed for us except that we missed the stage, and we want to play without fear.
Do you feel ready for the hamuli that will take place in Athens and Thessaloniki? What can people expect in your two shows?
We can’t wait! Expect new songs played for the first time and with guest musicians!
Thank you very much for this beautiful conversation! When are you going to America?
We thank you! Good question! I don’t have an answer yet! Haha.