Maral is a Los Angeles-based Iranian-American producer and DJ who has carved a niche in the experimental music scene by blending traditional Iranian sounds with modern electronic beats. Her innovative 'folk club' style incorporates samples from Iranian folk, classical, and pop music, creating a unique auditory experience that bridges cultural and musical divides. With releases like 'Mahur Club' and 'Push', Maral continues to push the boundaries of genre and tradition.
Country | United States |
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Knows languages | English, Persian |
Occupations | musical artist, producer, DJ |
Genres | Experimental, Electronic, Club |
Instruments | Setar, Guitar, Bass |
Labels | Leaving Records, Ninja Tune |
Years active | 2010s–present |
Early Life
Maral grew up immersed in a rich tapestry of musical influences, thanks to her Iranian heritage and the diverse cultural landscape of Los Angeles. Her parents' collection of Iranian folk and classical music, along with their mixtapes from the 1980s and 1990s, played a significant role in shaping her musical sensibilities. These early exposures laid the foundation for her unique approach to music production, where she seamlessly blends traditional sounds with contemporary electronic elements.
Career
Maral's journey into music production began with a deep dive into the histories of punk and electronic music during her high school years. A pivotal moment came when a friend introduced her to a cracked version of Ableton Live, sparking her interest in creating her own sounds. She started performing at house parties and basement shows, experimenting with blending indie rock and electronic tracks using loops and effects. After moving to Los Angeles, Maral became an integral part of the city's vibrant music scene, collaborating with collectives like Discostan and hosting her own monthly party, N:}0 Rules. Her debut full-length album, 'Push', released in 2020, showcased her distinctive 'folk club' sound, featuring collaborations with legends like Lee 'Scratch' Perry and Penny Rimbaud. This was followed by 'Ground Groove' in 2022, further solidifying her reputation as an innovative force in the experimental music landscape.
Influence
Maral's work is deeply influenced by her Iranian roots and the diverse musical traditions she was exposed to growing up. By incorporating samples from Iranian folk, classical, and pop music into her productions, she introduces listeners to new ways of perceiving music, blending the old with the new. Her approach has been described as a form of 'dance-floor ethnomusicology', where she recontextualizes traditional sounds within contemporary club settings. This innovative fusion has not only garnered her a dedicated following but has also contributed to a broader appreciation of Iranian musical heritage in the global music scene.
Discography
Maral's discography reflects her evolution as an artist and her commitment to pushing musical boundaries. Her debut mixtape, 'Mahur Club' (2019), introduced her 'folk club' sound, blending Iranian samples with experimental beats. This was followed by her first full-length album, 'Push' (2020), which featured collaborations with notable artists and delved deeper into her unique fusion of sounds. In 2022, she released 'Ground Groove', an album that further refined her approach, incorporating more live recordings and showcasing her growth as a producer and performer. Each release has been met with critical acclaim, highlighting her ability to innovate while honoring her cultural heritage.
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