Boston-based a cappella artist hachajah has made a notable debut with his EP, No Place Like. This innovative collection blends traditional Sri Lankan rhythms with modern pop, showcasing hachajah’s unique approach to the genre. The EP features tracks like “Closer,” a vibrant exploration of youthful attraction; “Colombo Sky,” a nostalgic tribute to his homeland; and “Mother,” a heartfelt ode to maternal love.
In a recent interview with Pop Cultr, hachajah reflected on his creative journey and the challenges he faced. He expressed his satisfaction with the EP’s release, saying, “It feels amazing! It’s a journey just begun, but at the same time, it also feels like a journey completed given the work that has gone into getting here. I’m really happy with what has been accomplished.” He also shared insights into the creative process, emphasizing the importance of trusting his own instincts: “I’ve learnt a lot of lessons along the way. One major lesson I learnt in the run up to the release was to trust in my own creativity. There were a few times that the process got slowed down because I was overthinking things. Sometimes you just need to trust in your creative process and not get caught up in the weeds.”
The track “Colombo Sky” has resonated strongly with listeners, particularly those familiar with Colombo. The accompanying music video, shot with iPhone footage recorded by hachajah himself, captures the raw essence of Colombo’s streets, enhancing the song’s narrative.
Hachajah’s music is deeply influenced by his Sri Lankan heritage, especially its distinctive drumming traditions. He expressed excitement about integrating these traditional elements with modern pop, noting, “Sri Lanka is famous for its many different types of drums and associated drum beats. These drum beats are unique and I find it exciting to fuse them with pop music. I’ve explored this in ‘Colombo Sky’ and look forward to doing more.”
The track “Closer” reflects his ability to blend personal experiences with broader themes, focusing on youthful attraction and Sri Lankan dating culture. Hachajah is particularly proud of the musical transitions in “Colombo Sky,” which enhance the song’s emotional impact.
As he looks to the future, hachajah hopes his music will connect with and touch a wide audience. For him, success is about reaching and resonating with as many people as possible. With No Place Like, he celebrates cultural fusion and personal storytelling, marking an exciting new chapter in his career.