TRANSCRIPT
Lush, atmospheric electro-pop, awash in polyphonic textures.
Bastien Picot, better known as “Aurus”, creates a hybrid soundscape, a journey through musical genres.
Hailing from the French overseas department of Reunion Island in the Indian Ocean… he draws on his rich Creole heritage and traditional Maloya rhythms.
He says maintaining strong ties to his island home is a huge part of his artistry.
"I like to use traditional instruments and to sing in Creole and bring those elements into another realm, present them in a different light. I like to mix my roots with many other styles of music."
He says the music is a crossroads of different cultures.
"What are you most proud of about your culture that makes you want to share with the world?"
“Most people from Réunion have a bit of African, Indian, Asian and European – French - in them. There’s a particular melting pot that exists in Réunion, that I don’t think we find in many other cultures.”
Singing in both English and Creole, his lyrics are very personal, touching on themes such as depression, and the importance of diversity and tolerance.
“There are many issues that resonate with me, that I like to question. Being able to share my personal struggles allows me to connect with people. If they are going through the same thing, they realise that they are not alone."
Leading listeners on a sonic odyssey with substance.
And a proud ambassador of Reunion Island, as he takes his music around the world.
