Todh Teri: A Journey Through Vintage Influences and Contemporary Electronic Music
Photo credit: Todh Teri – Official
Todh Teri is rapidly gaining recognition for his innovative approach to electronic music, intertwining vintage influences with a fresh, forward-facing perspective. With roots deeply embedded in reinterpreting archival sounds, his work continually evolves through a dedication to experimentation and an introspective focus on identity.
Exploring the New Release: ‘The Return Of Hari Heart’
His latest offering, ‘The Return Of Hari Heart’, represents the eighth installment on the Masala Movement label. This release heralds the beginning of a new vinyl-only series, comprising three tracks: ‘Smriti’, ‘Ṛṇa’, and ‘Prem’. The record delves into deeper textures and analog warmth, creating an atmosphere rich in open-ended storytelling. This invites listeners to form their own unique interpretations, fostering a deeper connection between the music and its audience.
Conversation with Todh Teri
In a recent chat, Todh Teri shared insights into his creative evolution, the randomness of music making, and the philosophical underpinnings of his latest work.
EG: Hi Todh, welcome to EG. ‘The Return Of Hari Heart’ feels like a new chapter. What sparked this shift in direction?
Todh Teri: Thank you, EG! Evolution is essential. I believe in keeping things fresh, especially in creativity. This new series explores randomness, an important factor that has molded my alias into something unexpected. It’s about breaking norms and finding a balance between “non-functional” tracks and traditional structures.
The Character of Hari Heart
EG: Who is Hari Heart, and what role does this character play in the EP?
Todh Teri: Hari Heart is a character that emerged from ‘Deep in India Vol. 7’ and has developed into his own identity. While there’s no direct link between the music and Hari Heart, it serves as a title and a figure for listeners to engage with. The series includes five characters whose interconnections remain open for interpretation, which encourages personal storytelling—an aspect I find beautiful.
Emotional Depth
EG: This release seems to lean into deeper emotional territory. Was that a conscious evolution from your earlier work?
Todh Teri: Evolution? Yes. Conscious? Not necessarily. It’s like watching your kids grow—it’s automatic and interdependent. The sound of this new series evolved naturally, rather than through deliberate planning. Most music just happens; our role is to observe, understand, and shape it.
The Philosophy Behind the Name
EG: Your alias carries a bold meaning. How does the concept of Todh Teri reflect your approach today?
Todh Teri: My name doesn’t have an inherent meaning; it’s just two random words that evolved into an alias and project. Embracing randomness—whether in music or life—has driven my approach. I take what seems inexplicable and make it my own. It’s a byproduct of unexpected journeys, finding peace in chaos and creativity in randomness.
“Limited things are more appreciated; it’s human nature. Anything in abundance is often taken for granted”
The Art of Sampling
EG: Where do you typically dig for samples, and what draws you to a piece of music?
Todh Teri: Many of the songs I edit reside in my core memory. I often seek out cheesy or quirky tracks, believing every tune has a soul, no matter how unusual it may sound. If you tune in closely, there’s always something that captures your attention.
Challenging Labels
EG: You’ve been vocal about the #dontcallitbollywood stance. Why is it crucial to challenge that label?
Todh Teri: “Bollywood” is often viewed as a derogatory term for Indian cinema—a mere commercial label that oversimplifies the richness of what the golden era of Indian cinema offered. It’s my way of highlighting the distinction between commercial and underground cinema, akin to labeling all electronic music as “EDM,” which doesn’t accurately represent the diversity in the genre.
The Vinyl-Only Format
EG: What inspired you to commit to a vinyl-only format for this release, especially in today’s digital landscape?
Todh Teri: As a vinyl collector, it’s vital for me to have my music released in this tangible format. Limited editions are more cherished; it’s human nature. This format allows collectors and enthusiasts to engage intimately with the project, enhancing their experience. Furthermore, as a live performer, it’s gratifying to know that many will hear these tracks exclusively on vinyl.
Distinct Yet Interconnected Tracks
EG: Each track feels distinct. Are they tied by a broader concept or narrative?
Todh Teri: I prefer leaving that to the audience’s interpretation. Are these merely random names? Do they connect to a larger narrative? That’s for the listeners and vinyl collectors to explore and connect with.
“Finding peace in chaos and creativity in randomness”
Hidden Gems
EG: There’s a hidden locked groove at the end of the record. What inspired that detail?
Todh Teri: It adds a fun element—a perpetual record! For the price of vinyl today, listeners should get something special.
Visions of a Visual World
EG: If this EP had a visual world, what would it look and feel like?
Todh Teri: It would be chaotic yet calm and serene—a meditative space amidst madness. Picture love, music, dance, food, and harmony interwoven together.
Todh Teri’s ‘The Return Of Hari Heart’ is out now on Masala Movement. Stream and download here.
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