Interviews

Passion and Sensibitlity: Donna D'Cruz is Music at its Best

By Marcos Bernal-Salas

Thursday, October 19, 2006

Nowadays great music is hard to find, especially when everyone tries to categorize it. I believe music is music; and great music can express different sentiments and even influence a certain mood. I grew up listening and appreciating music with this in mind so my musical taste ranges from Sergio Mendes to Nina Simone, from Goldfrapp to Erasure and the list goes on. If I like the beat, the rhythm and the artist then I’m hook and become the ultimate fan for such an artist. This is exactly what happened when I came across Donna D’Cruz’s latest album compilations ‘Rasa Exotica III’ and ‘Rasa Melo III’; two albums that are so different from each other but that explore an eclectic mix of music.

This model, jet-set DJ and female entrepreneur is a fantastic musical force and clear example of what an artist should be all about. Unlike many out there Donna’s approach to music is about; “a spiritual connection to the music”. And yes even that, she admits, could be a perplexing and confusing package to consider but it’s definitely a great starting point for conversation. Music is her passion and one of the reasons she started her record label ‘Rasa Music’; the word ‘Rasa’ which is a traditional Sanskrit word that means ‘essence’. The emphasis on multi-cultural music and lifestyles is something that she is all about.

Donna’s diverse background and experiences influence her taste on music and her take in life. Born in India but raised in Australia, her early work with the band INXS, exposure to the outdoor sounds and the aborigines of the country was the spark that started it all. “I’m Indian and there’s so much music out there and what other way to help bring music to people than take them through a journey around the world [through music]. Music is a tool for transformation; it’s so powerful and truly inspirational.” So it comes to no surprise that ‘Rasa Exotica’ and ‘Rasa Mello’ have a mix of French house, samba, bossa nova, hip-hop, disco to move, shake or mellow out until the wee hours of the night.

‘Rasa Exotica III’ is a collection of the best dance music I ever heard, on this side of the world for that matter, that with each track a new beat or sound strings the listener along. Bob Sinclair’s ‘Love Generation’, Benji Candelario’s ‘Power’, Camille Jones’ ‘Creeps’, Sarah Vaughan’s ‘Whatever Lola Wants’ with a dash of tango by Gotan Project’s remix and a corky, hilarious version of ‘Like a Virgin’ by Big Daddy will make your feet move and press repeat after each play. There’s nothing to compare ‘Rasa Exotica III’ to, since its unique style is like a rare gem; one barely ever comes across one.

‘Exotica’ is definitely a dance marathon CD. In the other hand, ‘Rasa Melo III’ is the prefect chill out collection to set out a perfect mood. The drums and the beats of the opening track ‘Song for Olabi’ by Bliss will transport you to the most exotic place on earth. The journey though continues with mixes by Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Joaquin Cortes & The Mi Soledad Ensemble’s ‘Allegrias’; which has most seductive set of strings in the album and Deepak Chopra – yes, that’s right Deepak – complete the most pleasant-sounding laid-back CD compilation ever.

Donna D’Cruz’s goal is very clear. Instead of being a DJ that compiles synthesized and monotonous beats she has set out to discover and reach out to audiences that crave for a different music experience. The ultimate Rasa experience that is about embracing all types of music – from the spiritual vibes to flamenco beats – spirituality, sensuality and happier lifestyles.

The albums hit stores October 31st
Become a Fan at My Space and listen to album tracks.