by martina rexrode
photo by kevin condon
Julia Bhatt is a fresh talent who encompasses all that it means to be a Gen-Z person today. With a succinct perspective on the world and a voice that sounds like it has lived a thousand lives, it’s clear that Bhatt has a bright future in this industry. Her sophomore EP Grab Bag is a mixture of covers and original songs that will reach through your headphones and find a place within you. Unclear talked to Bhatt about this EP, her inspirations, and her aspirations.
You describe your most recent single “For the World” as your version of a “big sigh.” How do you imagine you’ll describe the feeling of releasing your full EP? Another big sigh or something greater?
Julia: “The EP represents a break from reality for me. That doesn’t mean good or bad, but it’s just a step back to think. That’s what it feels like for me a bit. Being able to leave the world of the music industry and what other people want feels freeing. Doing only what I felt like recording when I did feels very different compared to the other music I've released.”
What does “For the World” convey to listeners?
Julia: “I don’t have any specific messages past what I sing or write about, so all I can hope is that people enjoy it and feel a little bit of whatever they need to feel.”
In what ways does your EP Grab Bag embody its title?
Julia: “It’s a pretty random mix. It’s mostly sad songs with a popular rap song thrown in there. People often ask why I included it and for me, grab bags are about playing a few songs that I’m into at the time that have no relation to one another except for the fact that I enjoy them!”
How did you choose the two songs you covered on Grab Bag?
Julia: “I was just listening to them over and over. I had paused making music and they were songs that made me want to resume.”
You’re only twenty-one years old, but your voice and lyrics are filled with so much grit and raw emotion. Where do you find yourself pulling inspiration from?
Julia: “Haha, I’ve been through a lot at a young age. I feel things super hard and it just comes out when I write. I suppose it’s what happens when you think too much.”
What is the biggest difference you’ve noticed within yourself since you started releasing music in 2019?
Julia: “I’ve been trying things more. I’ve been experimenting with different sounds and technology. This album doesn’t have a ton of it, but the new stuff will come out eventually. :)”
What do you hope listeners will find in this new EP?
Julia: “I just hope people like the music. I hope it finds people who could use it. It’s kinda sad, but there’s as much a place for sad music as happy music.”