Faithless Honors Maxi Jazz in Their Triumphant Return to Australia While Embracing the Future

A Journey Through Sound: Sister Bliss on Faithless’ Revival in Australia

As Faithless gears up for their much-anticipated return to Australia, the legendary British electronica supergroup is not merely reviving past hits. They are celebrating their journey, their legacy, and the spirit of creativity that defines them—particularly in light of the contributions made by their late frontman, Maxi Jazz.

Celebrating Three Decades of Faithless

This year marks the 30th anniversary of their debut album Reverence, which features iconic tracks like “Salva Mea” and “Insomnia.” For Sister Bliss, whose real name is Ayalah Bentovim, this milestone prompts a mix of reflection and thrill.

“It’s awful, isn’t it?” she laughs, illustrating the surreal nature of the occasion. “It makes you feel really like, ‘Oh, my God…’ It sort of sounds ridiculous to say it, amazing to say, there’s been 30 years of a band.” She notes the rarity of longevity in the music industry, stating, “Most bands have a little moment, then they argue terribly, fall out, [and] never speak to each other again.”

Looking Forward, Not Backward

While the anniversary may evoke nostalgia, Sister Bliss emphasizes the importance of forward-thinking. “We’ve got lots of new music, and I want to focus on that,” she states, acknowledging the pain of losing Maxi Jazz but insisting that “what keeps you alive is creativity, not just yearning for past glories.” This commitment to innovation is echoed in their upcoming Australian tour, which promises a multi-faceted live show that blends old favorites with fresh material.

Connecting Globally Amidst Turmoil

As Faithless prepares for this significant revival, they are also wary of external factors that threaten international travel. Addressing the current US-led conflicts and aviation chaos, Sister Bliss reveals the stress of changing flights multiple times to ensure their journey to Australia. “We’ve seen other artists cancel shows,” she remarks, illustrating the unpredictable nature of touring in today’s world.

Celebrating Maxi Jazz’s Legacy

The spirit of Maxi Jazz looms large in their creative process. Sister Bliss shares insights into working without him and how they are determined to honor his legacy. “We didn’t want it to be cheesy or mushy,” she reflects, revealing the careful thought that has gone into their live presentation since his passing. Their new show includes a mix of classics and tracks from their latest album, Champion Sound, which features Jazz’s final recorded vocal, setting a profound tone for the performance.

The Evolution of Faithless

Faithless, formed in 1995, has always been known for its genre-defying sound, blending house, progressive, and even classical elements. With over two decades of experience, Sister Bliss recalls the evolution of their music. “We didn’t have a framework, and it was very free,” she describes the authentic process that fueled their early albums. Their ability to push boundaries while retaining a core essence is what has sustained them through various music trends.

Intersections of Genres and Collaboration

Recently, the band has explored exciting collaborations with artists like Bebe Rexha, who features on the track “Dollars And Dimes” from Champion Sound. “It’s important to challenge people’s expectations,” Sister Bliss shares, highlighting how diverse influences can coexist in a single project. She appreciates that Faithless serves as a “home” for musicians from different genres, uniting them through a shared energy.

Women in EDM: Breaking Barriers

With Sister Bliss standing among the higher-profile women in EDM, she reflects on the challenges of gender disparity within the industry. While claiming a generally positive experience, she acknowledges past issues around equal pay, stating, “I found out that even when Insomnia was a global hit, I was paid less than my male counterparts.” Despite the obstacles, she sees hope in the recent visibility and discussions surrounding women’s rights in the music scene, particularly after the #MeToo movement.

A Unique Parenting Journey

Sister Bliss has not only balanced her music career but also her role as a single parent. Her experiences of touring with her son during his infancy resonate deeply. “I thought it was a miracle. I got pregnant very quickly, which I didn’t expect at all,” she recalls, shedding light on the complexities of motherhood in a demanding career. Her candid reflections reveal the joys and struggles of navigating life as a touring artist and a mom.

Ideals and the Future of Faithless

Through the highs and lows, Sister Bliss maintains an idealistic view of music’s ability to unite. “If we don’t have ideals, what are we?” she questions. Her conviction in the transformative power of sound is evident, as she sees Faithless not just as a musical entity, but as a cultural movement aiming for mutual understanding and respect among people.

As the band gears up for their Australia and New Zealand tour, they are prepared to reintroduce the world to a new chapter of Faithless, while aiming to carry forward the torch of Maxi Jazz’s remarkable legacy. For the fans, this isn’t just a concert—it’s a celebration of unity, creativity, and a shared love of music that transcends boundaries.

Faithless is set to hit stages across Australia, ensuring that the beat of their collective journey continues to resonate. What’s next for Sister Bliss and Faithless? The answer seems to lie in the music itself, as the promise of new sounds and experiences awaits their devoted audience.