Deep Alarik’s journey into music is an intriguing tale of discovery and evolution, resonating with anyone who has ever felt the electric pull of creativity. His story began at the tender age of 15, when he embarked on a quest to find a Justin Timberlake CD. However, he stumbled upon an Iron Maiden album instead in an unexpected twist of fate. The name alone ignited his curiosity, leading him to dive into a genre he had never encountered before. This chance encounter became the pivotal moment that ignited his passion for music.
Iron Maiden’s “Dance of Death” has a profound influence on Alarik’s musical aspirations. It reshaped his understanding of music, opening the door to the world of metal and inspiring him to explore the genre further. Before this moment, he knew little that such a robust and diverse musical form existed. The album acted as a gateway, propelling him down a rabbit hole of musical exploration that encouraged him to seek other unconventional sounds.
Transitioning from rock ‘n’ roll, Alarik began exploring underground genres like No-wave and Krautrock, starting with the unconventional sounds of Frank Zappa. Zappa’s innovative approach intrigued him, leading him to discover bands like Pink Floyd, whose unique compositions sparked his imagination. The iconic visual of Jimmy Page employing a violin bow in “Dazed and Confused” further fueled his curiosity about pushing musical boundaries. Kraftwerk’s “We Are the Robots” introduced him to Krautrock, deepening his desire to experiment with sound.
In addition to Iron Maiden, Alarik’s musical style has been shaped by various artists. Influences from bands like Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, and Pink Floyd have left indelible marks on his work, alongside blues legends like Buddy Guy and heavy metal icons such as Judas Priest and Motorhead. As he ventured into genres like Sleep, OM, Kraftwerk, Neu!, Can, Tangerine Dream, and Brian Eno, Alarik’s eclectic influences crystallized into a unique musical identity.
Alarik’s upbringing in India, juxtaposed with his life in Los Angeles, has profoundly affected his approach to music and sound design. His early exposure to regional music laid the groundwork for his appreciation of heavy metal, which blossomed in his mid-teens. This blend of cultural backgrounds allows him to collaborate with musicians worldwide, merging Eastern philosophies with Western musical styles and enriching his compositions.
Performing at DIY shows holds a special place in Alarik’s heart. The physical labor involved in setting up these events adds to his fulfillment after a performance, and the connection he forges with fans in these intimate venues feels familial, creating a community atmosphere that is both rewarding and inspiring.
Alarik’s creative process is an intricate dance, especially when blending traditional instruments like the sitar with modern genres. He often starts with a drone and Tabla, weaving narratives into his compositions. The presence of the sitar is determined by the story he wishes to tell, as it adds a unique emotional layer to his music. However, integrating traditional sounds into contemporary compositions presents challenges, particularly regarding scales, tonality, and rhythm; the differing counting methods in Indian classical music versus Western music require careful translation, making the creative process complex yet rewarding.
In defining his musical style, Alarik acknowledges that while metal is his root, the stories he wishes to convey shape the genre he explores. His state of mind during the writing process plays a crucial role, allowing for a fluid and evolving musical expression.
Alarik is excited to announce that he will be performing with his band, “Pick Pocket,” on April 17th at The Mint, where he will be playing bass guitar. This gig promises to showcase his unique musical style and creative vision.
The inspiration behind his current project, “How Writers Think,” stems from the idea of visualizing narratives while reading. This project diverges from his previous works, embracing an unconventional structure that invites unexpected sounds and experiences, creating a unique auditory journey.
Navigating commercial music projects while maintaining his creative vision is a delicate balance for Alarik. He recognizes that commercial music still requires creativity and an understanding of audience preferences, making it essential to adapt without losing artistic integrity.
The music industry has evolved significantly regarding artist independence and production capabilities. Alarik appreciates the shift toward self-sufficiency, where artists can produce high-quality music from their bedrooms, allowing for greater freedom in creative expression.
His cultural background continually influences his compositions, particularly in his use of the sitar. Growing up with regional and classical music laid a foundation that melds with his love for Western music, allowing him to infuse his cultural heritage into his metal compositions.
When collaborating with other artists, Alarik seeks individuals passionate about exploring unconventional sounds. He values open-mindedness and a willingness to venture into uncharted territory, believing such exploration leads to the most innovative and exciting musical experiences.
Technological advancements in sound design, such as VSTs, have transformed Alarik’s creative process. The convenience and limitless possibilities offered by VSTs enable him to explore the sonic landscape in ways that hardware alone cannot, further fueling his innovative spirit.
Deep Alarik’s musical journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and the endless possibilities that arise when one is willing to explore and break boundaries. His unique blend of influences, cultural heritage, and innovative spirit continues to shape his artistic expression, inspiring others to embark on their musical journeys.
For more about Alarik and his music, you can visit his website at [deepalarik.com](https://deepalarik.com) or follow him on Instagram at [@digitaljudas](https://www.instagram.com/digitaljudas/) and on Spotify at [Deep Alarik](https://open.spotify.com/artist/7yytdTIxspY4iTao7derhJ).