Released on May 24, 2024, “Ajasphère Vol. lI” by Aja is a multi-layer, multi-textural instrumental EP composed of synthesizers, acoustic instruments, sounds sourced from nature, and the voice as a fairy-like apparition, flowing through the absence of lyrics. This gives way to tracks capable of building realms, inspiring dreams and imagination– the foundation of the Ajasphere.
Aja is a project by Clémence Quélennec, a French producer best known for her work with the band La Femme. After spending 10 years with La Femme, she moved to Morocco, taking time to research and experiment in pursuit of the perfect sound. Aja’s solo work began with the 2019 EP, “Solitaire”, marking the beginning of her journey into ambient compositions. This was followed by several atmospheric tracks, eventually culminating in the release of “Ajasphère Vol. I” in 2021.
Composed between 2022 and 2023, “Ajasphère Vol. II” captures Aja’s gentleness and appreciation for the vastness of the universe. Listeners will encounter thoughtfully crafted passages made of live instruments such as the ocarina, clarinet, and broom, along with samples collected from Aja’s nature excursions to accompany the ambiance of her voice– all melded together with the rain, wind, owls, and birds.
I wanted to bring the music that was lying dormant within me to life.
Before taking a break, you were an integral part of La Femme for 10 years. Now, with ‘Ajasphère Vol. II’, you have brought forth an album filled with atmospheric tracks. Could you describe your journey into working with instrumental, and ambient sounds?
Aja- During my time with La Femme, I wasn’t involved in composing music, and I felt a deep need to express myself through my own creations. I wanted to bring the music that was lying dormant within me to life. Before joining La Femme, I had released an instrumental piano EP. Ultimately, “Solitaire” became the continuation of that early work, but in the meantime, I discovered synthesizers and plugins and began producing music on Ableton.
After extensively touring with La Femme, I felt the need to retreat to a quiet place. I traveled to Morocco and created a cocoon of calm and serenity amidst nature. This tranquility and softness deeply inspired me and are reflected in my music.
How has the Ajasphere grown since “Ajasphére Vol. I”?
Aja- When I created “Ajasphère Vol. I”, I envisioned it as the start of a compilation series. Since then, the Ajasphere has evolved significantly. I have continued to develop my visual universe. With “Ajasphère Vol. II”, I invited others into this world by collaborating with various musicians such as Canblaster and Variéras. Now that Vol. II has been released, I am already thinking about Vol. III.
You were journeying to find ‘the perfect sound’ through field recording, sampling, and experimenting with textures. How would you define your ‘perfect sound’?
Aja- Brief and light, vibrant and crackling, inspiring & fluid.
The album features field recordings and samples from your excursions, featuring sounds from rain, wind, and birds. Is there a specific excursion that left a strong impression on you as you composed?
Aja- There was one excursion in the Moroccan desert that left a strong impression on me. In the desert, I discovered a silence unlike anything I had ever heard before – it was truly silent and deep. So, it wasn’t a sound that marked me, but rather the absence of sound.
What is the best way for a listener to experience this album? Any recommendations?
Aja- I’ve received several testimonials from people saying they listen to it when they come home from a night out. They find it calming and feel it fits well with the nocturnal, in-between atmosphere. I’ve also heard from therapists who use the EP during their Pilates or hypnosis sessions.
the ability to inspire dreams, imagination, and a peaceful ambiance is central to my creative process.
You said you would like to inspire listeners “to dream, to imagine stories, or to accompany their days with all the gentleness” that you have put into the album. What is the importance of this from your perspective?
Aja- Yes, that’s exactly my initial intention when I compose music. It’s what drives me and what makes me feel passionate about creating. I aim to transmit that same sense of wonder and gentleness to my listeners. For me, the ability to inspire dreams, imagination, and a peaceful ambiance is central to my creative process. It is deeply fulfilling.
