Azar
What made you discover your passion for music? Any particular moments or turning points that you experienced?
I remember, as a child, always singing along to the songs I loved. I was passionate about performing because it provided an escape from dull moments and opened the door to a world beyond the one I lived in. Music allowed me to express myself in ways that words alone couldn’t, and it became a source of joy, inspiration, and connection. Looking back, those early moments of singing and performing sparked my deep love for music, shaping my journey and fueling my passion for it ever since.
The turning point came when I heard progressive rock music for the first time. Somehow, it evoked the same exotic feeling and atmosphere as Persian traditional music. The intricate melodies, unconventional time signatures, and emotional depth resonated with me in a way that felt both familiar and entirely new. This realization deepened my appreciation for music and inspired me to explore the connections between different musical traditions, ultimately shaping my artistic journey.
What’s the one album that started it all for you on your musical journey?
There wasn’t a single album that started it all for me, but rather a collection of songs from various artists that deeply influenced my musical journey. Bands like Pink Floyd, Anathema, Camel, and King Crimson introduced me to rich soundscapes, intricate compositions, and emotional depth, while artists like Hossein Alizadeh and Vangelis opened my ears to the beauty of traditional and cinematic music. Above all, these musicians shaped my understanding of melody, atmosphere, and storytelling in music, inspiring me to explore and create my own sound.
How would you best describe your sound? Any themes or nuances that define your sound?
I would describe my sound as a bridge between Western and Persian traditional/folk music, enriched with a cinematic background and atmospheric depth. It all emerges from what I hear when I meditate or improvise on my instruments—intuitive sounds that take shape organically. My compositions are deeply rooted in emotional experiences, transforming feelings that are difficult to express through any other medium but music. Through this fusion of cultures and emotions, I aim to create a sound that resonates on a profound and immersive level.
What’s your approach to songwriting? Is it collaborative?
My approach to songwriting is a deeply personal one and rarely collaborative. It usually starts with sounds I hear in my dreams or even voices in my head when I’m awake—moments of inspiration that just seem to appear. Sometimes, it begins with improvisation on my Persian instruments, which are designed for solitary, meditative play. They offer me a space to connect with myself, reflect, and channel emotions that are hard to express with words. It’s a very intimate process, where the music feels more like an extension of my inner thoughts and feelings, letting me communicate what I can’t say otherwise.
What kind of gear do you use?
I primarily use Native Instruments Maschine Plus, Kontakt, Komplete, and Logic Pro as my DAW. Alongside these, I incorporate my acoustic Persian traditional instruments, such as the Shoorangiz, Setar, Santoor, and Duduk, to create a fusion of digital and organic sounds in my music .
Are there any kind of production/musical techniques that you use in your songs? I.e. playing styles, recording techniques etc.
I really enjoy spending time creating synth sounds from scratch that can seamlessly integrate into the texture of my acoustic instruments. Texture is the most important aspect of my composition and production process. Sometimes, melodies emerge through my improvisation on Persian acoustic instruments, as they are intrinsically designed for this purpose. I record the live instruments and process the recordings to achieve the sound I have in mind, which often leads to unique ideas and results. I immerse myself in the process and let creativity flow, without being overly concerned with the technical aspects. I view the tools simply as tools to help bring my vision to life.
What’s been your most memorable gig so far/memorable moment? This could be deep and meaningful or outrageous and funny.
“My most memorable gig was a couple of years ago at Barn Meanwood in Leeds, where I had the privilege of being the opening act for the brilliant Irish singer-songwriter Eilidh Patterson. The experience was incredibly meaningful and deep, and it’s something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. On the other hand, I also had a gig that was both disastrous and funny. It was supposed to be an international art night organized by Leeds University, where I was offered a spot. However, the event turned out to be more of a fashion show with a focus on textiles and the Indian Southeast Asian community. When it was my time to perform, the sound quality was so bad that I decided to leave the stage and apologize to the audience. The event was chaotic and poorly organized, but it was definitely an unforgettable experience.”
Do you have any pre-gig rituals or studio habits?
While I do incorporate some pre-gig rituals like stretching and breathing exercises to help with tension and imposter syndrome, I also make a conscious effort to stay in the present moment. I try not to over-prepare, as I’ve found that embracing spontaneity works best for me. This approach allows me to focus on the experience itself, trusting my instincts and not getting caught up in unnecessary worries or rituals.”
Based on your experiences, what advice would you give to other local artists trying to make a name for themselves?
My main advice for local artists trying to make a name for themselves is to focus on what you truly love to do. When you’re passionate about your craft and enjoy the process, the journey itself becomes fulfilling, and that energy will resonate with your audience. Try not to get distracted by the pressure to be successful or chase fame—those things can often detract from the authenticity of your art. Networking is incredibly important, as it helps build relationships within the community and opens up opportunities. But equally, consistency is key. Keep showing up, keep creating, and stay dedicated to your vision. Over time, persistence and genuine connections will pave the way for success.
This is your chance to let people know what’s in store. What’s next for you? Any new releases, gigs, or exciting projects on the horizon?
I have a few singles coming out soon, all within the same genre that I’ve been working on. These tracks were initially composed for documentaries and moving image projects, and they will be released under my artist name, Azar. They will carry the same essence and resonate with my previous releases, continuing to explore that sonic landscape. In addition, I’ve been in touch with several folk festival organizers to secure a performance slot as a solo Persian traditional music artist in the EU, with a particular focus on Scandinavia. It’s an exciting time, and I’m looking forward to sharing more music and potentially performing at some great festivals.
