A Legacy Rooted in Anjuna

Tony McGuinness, Jono Grant, and Paavo Siljamäki’s relationship with India extends far beyond tour dates. The very name of their influential record label, Anjunabeats, is a direct homage to the free-spirited trance gatherings that originated on Goa’s Anjuna beach in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This early exposure to the ethos of community and transcendence deeply resonated with the group, shaping their artistic vision and laying the foundation for a lasting connection.

Their initial foray into the Indian festival circuit came in 2007, headlining the inaugural edition of Sunburn. Eighteen years later, returning to headline the festival’s latest incarnation, Grant and Siljamäki acknowledged the significant changes within the country’s music scene, but emphasized the unwavering support of their Indian fans. “Sometimes, when I’ve been a little nervous about how things are going to go, what I remember from the good nights in India is this feeling that, whatever happens, we’re here for you,” Siljamäki shared backstage. Grant echoed this sentiment, adding, “There’s a very warm kind of enthusiasm that is here, and it’s lovely.”

Beyond the Music: A Cultural Immersion

Above & Beyond’s connection to India isn’t solely confined to the stage. The trio consistently demonstrates a genuine curiosity and appreciation for the country’s rich culture. Paavo Siljamäki’s habit of documenting his experiences with a film camera speaks to a desire to truly absorb the atmosphere. Grant recalls a visceral, holistic experience, noting that “just coming over to India…from the food to the culture, the people, what you see outside, is life-changing.” He fondly remembers a moment overlooking the Chowmahalla Palace with Matt Zo, describing an inexplicable feeling of goosebumps and profound beauty.

This deep engagement with the local environment sets Above & Beyond apart. Do you think a genuine connection with a country’s culture is essential for artists seeking to build a lasting fanbase?

Bigger Than All of Us: A Return to Core Values

Their current India tour coincides with the promotion of Bigger Than All of Us, their first fully electronic album in seven years. This album represents not just a musical evolution, but a deliberate return to the core principles that defined their sound. It’s an exploration of the essence that first captivated audiences and a reaffirmation of their collective identity after two decades of collaboration.

Siljamäki explains that the extended break between albums provided valuable space for reconnection, both with themselves and with their community. Grant adds that this period allowed them to approach the new album with a renewed sense of purpose, rather than simply rushing into another project. The response to the album has been overwhelmingly positive, with tracks like “Carry Me Home” becoming sing-along anthems at their live shows, signaling a vibrant future alongside their beloved classics.

A Therapeutic Soundscape and the Power of Connection

The Sunburn Mumbai performance served as a powerful reminder of the therapeutic quality of Above & Beyond’s music. Their set seamlessly blended foundational elements – rolling basslines, melodic builds, and euphoric drops – with both classic tracks like “Sun & Moon” and “Blue Monday” and newer material such as “Quicksand,” featuring Zoë Johnston, and “Letting Go,” with Malou. This sonic journey resonated deeply with the audience, embodying the emotional release that has become synonymous with their music and their long-running radio show, Group Therapy, now approaching its 700th episode.

In a musical landscape increasingly dominated by aggressive sounds, Bigger Than All of Us stands as a beacon of optimism and melodic depth. Grant emphasizes that Above & Beyond prioritizes the message and sentiment behind their music over fleeting trends. “I don’t really care what’s big this year…it’s more about the ideas and the sentiment behind it, the feelings and emotions behind the tunes.” This unwavering commitment to their artistic vision has clearly resonated with fans, both old and new.

Grant notes that while some bands struggle to maintain audience engagement with new releases, Above & Beyond has witnessed a remarkable connection with the songs from Bigger Than All of Us. This speaks to the enduring power of their sound and the unwavering loyalty of their fanbase. What does this say about the importance of authenticity in a constantly evolving music industry?

Resident Advisor provides further insight into the evolution of trance music and its global impact.

Billboard offers a comprehensive review of their latest album, Bigger Than All of Us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Above & Beyond