New music from Tigran Sound

Multi-talented producer, instrumentalist, DJ and promoter, Tigran Sound has earned a reputation for his unique fusion of live, organic and electronic sounds. Currently based in Lagos, Nigeria, Tigran Letov, known as Tigran Sound, draws inspiration from his diverse background and contrasting influences, resulting in a standout analogue sonic vibe that traverses the realms of house, techno and psychedelic music. As one of the pioneers of underground electronic music in Nigeria, Tigran Sound’s latest full-length record, GroundFi, showcases his musical prowess and reflects the contrasting lifestyles of Lagos.

Born in Russia/Uzbekistan and raised in Nigeria from the age of five, Tigran Sound embraced the traditional influences of African rhythms, drums and chants, integrating them into his music. After studying computer science and media in Germany, he remained in the country to immerse himself in the art and music scenes. Collaborating with musicians across genres, Tigran Sound eventually found his home in electronic music. In 2018, he returned to Nigeria where he organised open-air festivals and raves throughout Nigeria while honing his skills as a DJ and producer.

GroundFi is Tigran Sound’s sophomore album, following his debut, Garri Gunpowder, which was recorded during the first lockdown. The album takes listeners on a journey through various sub-genres of electronic music that hold personal significance for Tigran Sound and the flourishing underground scene in Lagos. With his distinct psychedelic-inflected musical aesthetic, Tigran Sound covers a wide range of emotions, painting each electronic setting with a unique colour palette. From vibrant instrumentals to thought-provoking vocals and drums of varying tempos and timbres, the album offers a diverse yet cohesive listening experience.

The album opens with “Intro G,” a grooving track that immediately grabs the listener’s attention with its pumping bass line. The song immerses them in a kaleidoscope of sounds, featuring a rhythm-synced dial tone, a snapping beat and vocal samples, setting the stage for the musical adventure that awaits. “Surreal” showcases Tigran Sound’s collaboration with singer Ayofawo, resulting in a dreamy and subtly uplifting vibe. The track combines a bouncy rhythm, swirling instrumental tones and blissful lead vocals that beautifully contrast with the gritty bass synth.

One of the album’s highlights is “Shy Horns,” a downtempo masterpiece that features a softly snapping beat and a captivating sonic tapestry. The track blends stretching synth drones with intricate staccato shots, creating a trance-inducing soundscape. On “The Shaman,” Tigran Sound joins forces with Pandemik, resulting in a hypnotic fusion of musical styles. The track features a propulsive beat that supports a stunningly diverse arrangement of modulating synth tones and a deft hand pan performance, showcasing the brilliance of their collaboration.

“Spirit Samba” injects a danceable energy into the record, driven by a shuffling beat and ethereal instrumental tones. The track’s soaring vocal lines, drenched in washy reverb, float above the mix, while the plucks of the guitar add elegant shades of funk. As the album draws to a close, “Outro G” takes listeners on a journey filled with mellow tribal-style percussion and swooshing textures. Vibrant synths gracefully dance above, creating an upbeat and sweet finale to this groundbreaking and thoroughly enjoyable album.

In GroundFi, Tigran Sound delivers an incredible sonic journey across eleven tracks, each with its distinct flavour and forward-thinking approach. From the grooving rhythms and infectious bass lines to the mesmerising instrumentals and bright vocals, the album showcases Tigran Sound’s exceptional talent and unique cinematic sound. This diverse record invites listeners to explore and experience the vibrant underground scene of Lagos, through Tigran Sound’s masterful musical craftsmanship. GroundFi is a stunning showcase of the artist’s talent and original sonic vision as well as his ability to create an immersive and entirely enthralling sonic odyssey.

Listen to GroundFi below