Indian Trap (aka J2) is proud to present his latest single, Shiva Mantra (Om Namah Shivaya), which he co-wrote with award-winning South Indian artist S. J. Jananiy. The renowned L.A. producer collaborated with the award-winning composer & singer S. J. Jananiy to create a new sound that combines ancient Sanskrit mantras with classical Indian vocal techniques and contemporary Trap Music. Shiva Mantra (Om Namah Shivaya) pushes the envelope as S. J. Jananiy delivers a sublime vocal performance over a hypnotic beat and melodic synths, Indian temple bells, flutes and 808 basses.
By Beth Hilton, The B Company
“As a musician, my material is sound,” says Indian Trap. “I’ve always considered myself a sound designer. When I learned that the Shaivite Hindu tradition believes that matter is vibration and the cosmos is sound, it got me thinking! We talk about someone having great vibes, don’t we? Don’t we say that some people vibe well together? These seemingly trivial words have a profound meaning! Mantras are prayers that ‘vibe’ with the universe. What better lyrics can a composer ask for? Jananiy brought the mantras, and I brought my music! Three thousand years old mantras that go right to the heart of matter and contemporary music that has emerged from the streets, from ordinary people… we’re talking about roots! Music is the medicine for the soul, Plato said. At its best, music is a cosmic energy that removes negativity and obstacles, bringing peace, focus, and satisfaction to all who listen. Ever heard of Bach? The journey may be long, but we are on the right track.”
Weighing in from her studio in Chennai, India, S. J. Jananiy adds, “Working along with Jay for this very special single was highly explorative by fusing the Vedic Mantras, his Indian Trap music, and the many vocalizations. It got me thinking about how these Mantras, encased in Trap music and Indian raga-based music, could be performed live, and that got me curious about those possibilities. This song has at least 32 different vocal layers, along with a unique collage of taans, aalaaps, swaras, and improvisations that blend beautifully with harmonies for Jay’s track!”
The powerful Shiva Mantra was carefully chosen to be the first collaboration between J2 and S. J. Jananiy. Heard within the track, the lyric “Om Namah Shivaya” is the Shiva Panchakshari mantra for destroying ignorance, violence, unhealthy habits, and negative karma. Repeated in song, it releases our inner potential and invigorates us with positivity.
Now, Trap music fans and yogis everywhere can tap into this energy in a modern, exciting and accessible new way.