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The Index

The Index - Episode 135

Tuhin Mehta is an iconic figure in India's thriving techno scene. With an impressive track record spanning over three decades and a penchant for innovation, he stands tall as one of the foremost contributors to the dance music landscape in India.

A professionally certified sound engineer hailing from SAE in Chennai and also serving as an international ambassador for Berklee College of Music, Tuhin boasts an unmatched grasp of the technical intricacies of sound production. His journey took a significant turn in 2007 when he assumed the role of Pioneer DJ Product Specialist for India, a position he continues to hold, steering the brand's growth in the country. 

Tuhin's musical prowess extends far and wide, from headlining at some of the largest clubs to crafting chart-topping tunes featured on award-winning albums. Notably, he is the driving force behind one of India's premier music festivals, Go:Madras, hosted in his hometown of Chennai. His enduring presence in India's dance music scene is undeniable.

Tuhin's musical approach is characterised by an unwavering focus on rhythm, transcending the boundaries of conventional techno. He deftly merges cutting-edge technology with his mastery of analogue gear, creating a distinctive sonic signature. With an innate ability to interlace captivating synth melodies within robust percussive frameworks, he crafts hypnotic and high-energy musical journeys.

Tuhin's deep-rooted experience in DJing has rendered him a virtuoso on the decks, where he effortlessly wields his equipment and music. His mixing skills are second to none, and he is often hailed as a DJ's DJ, revered for his profound influence and artistic finesse.

Reflecting on Tuhin's illustrious career, it's evident that his early immersion in tribal tech music laid the foundation for his present-day vision and techno sensibilities. Tuhin Mehta is unequivocally a permanent fixture in India's dynamic music landscape, and his impact continues to resonate and evolve year after year.

From the pulsating energy of strobe lights and smoke-filled rooms, Oscill8’s journey into the world of dance music began with an intense rhythm that resonated deep within him. This initial spark set him on a trajectory that would evolve over two decades into a distinguished career as DJ Oscill8. Known for his profound impact on the electronic music scene in New Delhi and across India, Yudhishtiir's rise to prominence includes securing residencies at some of the most esteemed clubs, notably the legendary Ministry of Sound—a moment he regards as a realization of a vision he had so vividly seen that it felt predestined.

Oscill8’s mastery of the DJ console became apparent as he captivated audiences in clubs across India and China. His dedication to the craft saw him sharing stages with industry giants such as Ferry Corsten, Martin Eyerer , Shonky ,Moshic , Meat katie , Paul Woodford and Grandmaster flash demonstrating his ability to blend seamlessly with a diverse range of musical styles. A passionate crate digger, Yudhishtiir's relentless pursuit of the perfect records enabled him to regularly perform marathon eight-hour sets, showcasing his endurance and deep understanding of dancefloor dynamics. His impressive list of residencies includes prestigious venues like Climax (New Delhi), Sunset Ashram (Goa), and Club Sutras (China), highlighting his broad appeal and versatility.

Growing up, Yudhishtiir was profoundly influenced by the pioneering sounds of dance music legends such as Sasha, Digweed, Joshi wink and Hawtin. These early influences inspired a deep appreciation for the moments of connection and unity that only a well-curated dancefloor can provide. Determined to deepen his technical expertise, Yudhishtiir enrolled at the SAE Institute in Middlesex to study audio engineering. However, his burgeoning DJ career demanded so much of his time that he had to temporarily put his ambitions as a producer on hold.

In recent years, Yudhishtiir has devoted much of his time to the studio, drawing on the interplay between analog drum machines and sequencers. This dedication has allowed him to craft the raw techno and minimal grooves that have become synonymous with his DJ sets. His music, characterized by an angular and sonically inventive sound, defies strict genre boundaries. Instead, it seamlessly blends the rich heritage of past techno sounds with innovative, forward-looking elements.

Having already shared the booth with some of the most respected names in the industry, Oscill8 is now making a significant mark in the production scene. His razor-sharp understanding of dancefloor dynamics, honed over years of performing in India's top clubs, ensures that his productions resonate deeply with audiences. As Oscill8 continues to evolve, his unique sound is poised to captivate dance floors for years to come, solidifying his place in the annals of electronic music history.