A intriguing sitar-esque sliding riff blended with classic warm electronic beats..welcome to the universe of Hattori Hanzo, by Square Head Round Soul. Read our discussion with the artist below!
Tell us a few things about Hattori Hanzo. What is the main idea behind it?
The original idea came about when I was experimenting with this particular guitar sound.
I turned my guitar into a pseudo-sitar by detuning it and putting a capo underneath the strings on the fretboard. It allowed me to do these sitar-esque bends which gave it this inherent eastern sound. From there I played a lot with textures and drones which gave it a unique flavor.
How did you come up with the name for the record?
While I was writing this track I had re-watched one of my favorite movies Kill Bill and the swordsmith in the movie was called Hattori Hanzo. If you listen closely you can hear sword samples interspersed throughout track!
In which place or state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?
I like to think people will put it on and be transported into a different state of mind. I’d hope it would elicit intrigue and compel people enough to listen again because there are a lot of layers to my music.
What made you gravitate towards electronika? Artists and people that have influenced you?
I think it was the natural progression for me as a musician. I came from the band world and I spent so much time and effort trying to achieve a “live” organic sound. I wanted what came out of the speakers to only be produced by the instruments on stage. I felt limited after a while. I soon began to traversing the world of electronica and fell in love with the infinite possibilities. I now love blending both worlds – the organic human elements with the hyper real.
Which is your go to synth (analog or digital) when you start a project?
I love Serum and Arturia synths. Hoping to invest in an analog synth this year though!
Do you like the idea of collaborating? Is songwriting a lonely process?
As I mentioned I came from the band world so much of my life has been collaborating with other likeminded musicians. It’s a nice change for me to be solely in the driver seat. I do hope to do more collaborating in the electronic sphere but for now I’m a lone solider.
Which Superpower would you choose?
In the spirit of Hattori Hanzo, I’d love the ability to be wield a sword and have super human reflexes!
Thank you!
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