For the fans of forward-thinkers, and especially those without a narrow palette, then you should have your ear to the floor for Harpreet Bansal. The Grammy-nominated blurs the lines between the North Indian tradition and erratic, playful jazz in Parvat (released 11/02/22) – the wildly free and musically outstanding three-piece movement and we had the pleasure to find out more…
FFO: Which artist’s fans would resonate with your music the most and why?
People who appreciate my music come from many different backgrounds and preferences: jazz, folk, classical and contemporary, rock etc. It’s difficult to say exactly who would like what, but I imagine that fans of f.x. Shakti and Anoushka Shankar might find something to enjoy in my music.
FFO: Who is an artist that deserves more fans right now?
Simin Tander. I think she is an amazing singer; she has a unique method to use her voice, very personal way of singing. We blend very well when we make music together.
FFO: As an artist, how do you keep fans loyal?
Continuous engagement with fans and supporters through social media, releasing new music, touring, playing concerts.
FFO: What is it like to perform to home crowd fans as opposed to other regions?
Both are fun and important. Home and familiar crowds have expectations that I feel I have to live up to. New audiences may be more open. Both are important and require preparation in different ways.
FFO: Do you have any funny/interesting stories about your fans?
On some occasions I have been requested to wear Indian clothes, and one woman eagerly wanted to see me in a Moroccan shawl she had. She explained that she thought I must be freezing since I was Indian, even though it was a beautiful summer day. I was not freezing and I’m not Moroccan, but she was so sweet, so I let her put it on me.
FFO: How do you think fans will react to your new material?
I think they will be excited to hear the evolution of my music, and hopefully want more! It’s so different from the other output, so I’m really curious about the response.
FFO: What has been your favourite live performance so far and why?
It must be Ravi Shankar’s concert in Oslo 2011. He was 91 and had to be helped on stage, but when he sat down to play it was a performance for the ages. Also, he brought a fantastic group of musicians. If there is such a thing as a perfect concert, this was it.
FFO: How excited are you to take the new material out to the live stages?
Very proud and excited about the upcoming concerts. The prospect of introducing new material in the live setting always generates positive nervous energy and engages all the senses and emotions of my soul as an artist
FFO: Is there an overall theme that runs through Parvat?
The title itself is the theme. Parvat means mountain/s and I wanted this to be huge. Also, because it felt like a massive challenge, I had never tried anything so big. So, it was a mountain to climb.
Connect with Harpreet below: