Between Styles: The Sonic Journey of Tasha
In the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music, Tasha distinguishes herself as a versatile artist who transcends traditional genre boundaries. She’s often booked for techno and drum and bass events, but her musical ethos embraces a broader spectrum. “I like lots of different styles of music,” she explains, encapsulating her philosophy with the simple yet profound statement, “If it’s good music, it’s good music.”
Fluid Genre Play
What sets Tasha apart is her ability to weave through various sounds and rhythms seamlessly. Her DJ sets are not confined to a singular genre; instead, they flow dynamically through techno, breaks, electro, and even subtle hints of dubstep. This eclectic approach creates an immersive experience that keeps audiences engaged and excited. “I like to mix it up a little bit,” she remarks, emphasizing that the essence of a successful set lies in adaptability. “It doesn’t really matter what it is, as long as it works.”
Tasha draws inspiration from iconic venues like Berghain in Berlin, which, while traditionally rooted in a specific techno sound, serves as a canvas for her to explore. “It’s historically been associated with a certain techno sound,” she observes, noting her intention to represent the diverse UK sound during her performances. She actively experiments, intentionally departing from expected flows to introduce unexpected elements that unite various genres within a single set. “Maybe some breaks, maybe some dubstep, maybe some electro,” she muses. “Whatever works in the mix.”
The Impact of Social Media on Music Culture
As a dedicated artist, Tasha has observed significant cultural shifts in the music industry over the past decade, particularly due to the influence of social media. She acknowledges the growing trend where promoters and organizers increasingly evaluate artists based on their online followings. “A lot of promoters and organisers check if you have a big following,” Tasha notes, highlighting the pressure artists face to maintain visibility in a digital age. This focus on social media metrics often stands in stark contrast to the organic, slow-burning relationships she cherishes.
“The pressure to build a following and fit into the algorithm makes her uneasy,” she admits. For Tasha, the artistry of music shouldn’t be reduced to likes and shares. Instead, she treasures the more tactile and traditional aspects of music production, such as making vinyl records. “Well, I am not even on Spotify,” she says with a smile, illustrating her preference for a more curated approach to music consumption. “Everything’s become so accessible and disposable,” she reflects, expressing concern over the transient nature of modern music culture.
The Dancefloor as a Space for Liberation
At the core of Tasha’s work is an unwavering commitment to the emotional potency of music. “My happy place is in the mix,” she shares, explaining the thrill she experiences when tracks blend seamlessly and the crowd connects with the energy of the moment. For Tasha, those minutes spent synchronizing rhythm and crowd dynamics make everything outside the booth feel trivial, encapsulating the liberating power of music.
She recognizes that each individual on the dancefloor carries their own emotional baggage, coming together to seek solace. “They might be having a really bad time, and they come to let loose,” Tasha remarks. “The music resonates with them, helps them cut off.” This shared experience of release and connection is a pivotal part of why she loves her craft.
Tasha recalls a recent performance where an old track sparked nostalgia in a member of the audience, illuminating the profound impact of her sets. “I get messages from people after gigs describing how a certain portion of my set connected with them or reminded them of something positive,” she recounts, emphasizing the emotional exchange that occurs between DJ and listener. It’s this interplay of sound and sentiment that fuels her passion.
A Lifelong Commitment to DJing
Tasha’s dedication to her art is resolute. “I just love this too much. I will be DJing until my final days,” she asserts, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm and determination. Her upcoming gig in Mumbai offers yet another opportunity for her to engage with new crowds and share her musical journey. With an ever-evolving sound and an unwavering commitment to the transformative power of music, Tasha continues to carve her path in the vibrant world of electronic music.
