London-based multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and producer Devansh writes genre-bending music that blends elements of psychedelic soul, modern funk, jazz, indie pop, and world music. He returns with his latest offering ‘The Brace’. With introspective lyricism and a groovy beat, the track simultaneously captures evocative storytelling and laid-back vibes while taking the listener on an emotional journey.
We sat down with Devansh to discuss their music and much more. Here is what they had to say:
Devansh, welcome to FLEX! How are you?
Yeah, I'm good thanks! It's the start of spring in London, which is stunningly beautiful, and I just had a headline show with a six-piece band last Friday night, which is always equal parts fulfilling, exhausting, incredible, and stressful.
Congratulations on your brand-new single 'The Brace' - what inspired this particular track?
Well, the track initially started as a spontaneous jam with the band, which I'll talk about later. But lyrically, the song is about going through a period of ambivalence and indifference in my life, then having someone important come back into it, bringing back all kinds of memories along with new sentiments, emotions, and desires. It's about balancing those conflicting, overpowering feelings - bracing for them - while recognizing that rather than being closed off, I want my heart to always be open.
And do you have to be in a certain mood to write?
Hmm, not necessarily in a certain mood, but I do think it's important to create the conditions for creativity instead of forcing moments of creativity. Which for me means a regular practice of meditation and exercise, and generating moments of discomfort to spark the brain (things like traveling, cold plunges, or waking up super early).
How was the recording and writing process?
It was a lot of fun and very collaborative actually, and spanned a couple of different studios. The groove and structure for "The Brace" was written during a recording retreat at Echo Zoo Studios in Eastbourne with friends and bandmates Rudi Creswick (bass), Calum Duncan (guitar), and Ellis Dupuy (drums). I then went on to add a bunch of synths (Korg Delta, Minimoog, Juno 106), got strings from Hanna Khogali to add a little bit of a cinematic touch, and finished off the vocal ideas last.
For viewers who don't know Devansh, how would you describe your sound?
Tough question, but I'd say somewhere at the intersection of indie, psychedelic, and groove, with some soul, funk, and jazz influence. Definitely wistful and nostalgic as well - I want to be able to transport listeners and take them on a journey.
And what are some of those activities that you engage yourself in when you aren't writing or recording in the studio?
So many things! Traveling, biking, working out, yoga, getting out into nature, dancing, tennis, seeing live music, drinking orange wine in a park, being in or near a body of water, and doing stupid accents with friends.