It has already been three years since Paji’s grand debut album with the well-known label Katermukke, which also marks the last masterpiece released by the artist. Three years of extreme global changes, personal growth, and musical inspirations and creativity later, and we have ourselves the first release from the multi-instrumentalist, producer, composer and visionary Paji.
Releasing for the first time on his very own music platform ’Jîyan’, which beautifully translates to ‘Life’, will give birth to his new single ‘Awat’ on November 25th. ‘Awat’ is composed with its fusion of deep synth sounds, live recorded drums and film score inspired strings arrangements; making it step into various genres such as Electronica, Deep House, and Break Beats. Consequently, with this mixture of sounds, this track takes one on a hopeful yet inspirational story telling journey.
You can now listen to the full premiere of ‘Away’ exclusively on When We Dip while reading the cool interview we had with Paji. Enjoy!
WWD: You’ve been a well-respected, multi-instrumentalist musician. How did you first get into it and how many instruments do you play?
I was introduced to music through my family at a very early age. A close friend of our family was a violin player. He always brought his violin and played for us. I showed interest and my parents took me to music school. That was the beginning.
The violin has always been my main instrument, but besides that I was super interested in Kurdish Folk and classical Iranian music, so I wanted to learn instruments which came from that region. I don’t really know how many Instruments I can play. Some of them I can play, others I try to play! But I get something out of mostly any stringed instrument.
WWD: Your last release, which was your debut album, was three years ago with the label Katermukke. How come you took this three-year break?
I didn’t take a break from music. I was doing music every day. I just wasn’t inspired enough to produce music which I wanted to release.
Right after the release of my Debut Album Covid happened. So the Album tour got cancelled and we all know these stories. Going to the studio and making dance music without a dance just didn’t feel right. Before we had this workflow of going to the studio, creating new music and testing it the next weekend on the dance floor. The week after we could do changes and try it again until we were happy with the results. This part of my workflow was gone completely.
Instead, I used the time to get back to my practicing routine and educating myself. Getting better at everything was my main focus. And finally, I’m back on releasing new music.
WWD: Your first release since your debut album is the single called ‘Awat’ which is being released today, November 25th. What was the inspiration behind this music?
The world feels super grey to me for some years now. Maybe it was always like that but we just weren’t affected or we were blind. A lot of dance music feels super dark and hard to me. I tried to get inspiration from positive things and tried to produce a track that takes one on an inspirational and hopeful journey.
WWD: This single is being released for the first time on your own music platform ‘Jîyan’. What made you start your own?
After releasing on big labels for 9 years I thought it’s time to start my own label. As an artist it gives you total freedom in the development process.
WWD: Now that COVID restrictions have been lifted for some months, are you back to touring? How’s that experience been?
It’s been great. I played a lot of shows this year. I tested new music, connected with people and met many old friends. I really enjoy being back on stages. It’s nice to see that people were waiting for all these nice festivals and concerts to happen again.
WWD: Music wise, what can our audience expect in the near future? Are you working on more music?
I finished a lot of new tracks which will be released on my new label Jîyan soon. For sure, I will always work on more music. Besides making music I already can say that 2023 will be a busy year of touring and I really can’t wait to play all the new tunes for you!
WWD: If you had one advice for our audience what would it be?
Enjoy listening to music and attending nice concerts. Maybe leave your phones at home while visiting festivals/concerts and enjoy the moment.
WWD: Thanks so much for taking the time to answer our questions Paji, it’s great to have you with us!
Thanks a lot 🙂
Release Date: November 25th, 2022. Buy Here
Paji: Facebook // SoundCloud