Aatmaa Release ‘Cataclysm’.
Written by Laury Verdoux
Aatmaa, an alternative rock band from Chicago, is the collaborative brainchild of married couple Ashwin and Shara Deepankar. Their debut album, Cataclysm, is an introspective exploration of personal upheaval, loss, and mental health. The nine-track album, introduced by the single "Hidden Bruises", showcases the duo's ability to blend atmospheric arrangements with raw, aggressive moments, creating a quintessential headphones record.
Aatmaa (“the soul” in Hindi) recorded the album during the COVID-19 pandemic and Cataclysm reflects the band's responses to the fraught period and delves into universal themes of personal and emotional turmoil. The album's sound is a dynamic blend of moody alternative rock, with spiritual and solemn tracks like "Solstice" and "Her Stoning" juxtaposed against aggressive pieces like "It Sleeps". Aatmaa's music is richly textured, drawing comparisons to bands like Dead Can Dance and The Cure while maintaining a contemporary edge.
The creation of Cataclysm was marked by unique challenges and innovative solutions. Limited by their condo's space and the necessity to record during specific hours, Ashwin and Shara used these constraints to their advantage, taking time to meticulously craft their sound. Ashwin’s background in touring and live sound engineering played a crucial role, as he adapted his skills to the home recording environment. Shara, who had to balance her role as an essential worker with her creative pursuits, found a therapeutic outlet in the music, which allowed the couple to process their shared experiences during the pandemic.
The Deepankars' personal journey is intricately woven into the fabric of Cataclysm. The album’s lyrics often touch on the theme of loss—both physical and metaphorical. Songs like "The Worst in People" and "Hidden Bruises" reflect the duo’s exploration of self-acceptance and the courage to break free from negative influences.
Cataclysm is a powerful debut that introduces Aatmaa as a significant new voice in alternative rock. Through its intricate soundscapes and emotionally charged themes, the album captures the essence of navigating personal and collective turmoil. Aatmaa’s ability to transform their experiences into a compelling musical narrative makes Cataclysm a must-listen for fans of moody, atmospheric rock with a raw, contemporary edge.
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