London-based DJ and producer Troyboi is back with a new twist on his Indian heritage with his latest EP, “Rootz.” From the luscious synth soundscapes found in “Masala” to the infectious string riffs found in “Okay,” all five tracks take turns playing with the relationship between contemporary, electronic elements and traditional folk instrumentation. The EP also welcomes the talents of Lata Mangeshkar, Amrit Maan, Jazzy B and BombayMami, some of India’s influential musicians of today. With culture so deeply intertwined with his distinctive trap production style, Troyboi blurs the lines of what’s possible to create a body of art that bleeds personality.
“Masala (with Amrit Maan)”
“Masala (with Amrit Maan)” opens the EP with catchy vocal hooks that immediately immerse listeners into the cultural landscape about to unfold. A fusion of trap instrumentals propel the track’s momentum forward while lush synths create texture in Troyboi’s iconic dubstep fabric. Joining him is Amrit Maan, an Indian singer-songwriter known for his influential contributions to Punjabi music. Elements of Punjabi music, such as energetic rhythms and soulful vocals, are interwoven through these trap rhythms, leaving listeners nodding their heads along to the contagious beats.
“Okay”
Next up is “Okay,” a three-minute-long piece featuring harmonic vocals, funky bass drops and iconic string riffs. The song’s captivating energy begs to be danced to, with steady electronic elements building in anticipation. Troyboi pairs up with Jazzy B, an Indo-Canadian singer-songwriter who has also shaped the Punjabi musical scene.
“Kamli”
“Kamli” begins with ascending beats that grow in volume and intensity as the track finds its footing and gives way to a harmonic vocal riff. More techno-heavy in instrumentation than any other track in “Rootz,” the EP’s third song illustrates the infectious power of choppy harmonics and vocal distortion when paired with minimalistic electronic elements. Here, Troyboi minimizes melodic vocals to shine a light on the experimental side of his production, letting rhythmic tension drive the track forward.
“Beggin”
“Beggin” continues the lush soundscapes found in the EP’s earlier stages while simultaneously illuminating the stage for BombayMami‘s unforgettable vocals. “Imma give you something that you can’t resist,” the Swiss-Indian artist sings. Her intricate flow perfectly complements the enchanting, airy melodies of the bansuri, a traditional Indian transverse flute.
“Kabhi”
The essence of “Rootz” is brought to a finish with “Kabhi,” a track that features a infectious beat riff atop lush synths that give way to a funky blend of dispersed vocals and syncopated rhythms. Light reverb is sprinkled in amidst a diaspora of voices. Using the vocals of Indian playback singer Lata Mangeshkar, “Kabhi” marks the first time her voice has been used outside of a traditional Bollywood production.
With electronic music steadily rising in today’s sonic environment, the synthesis of techno-heavy elements with more personal, cultural influences makes Troyboi’s “Rootz” a uniquely intimate work of art. Collaborations with some of India’s most prominent musicians also amplify his ability to create sounds different from the norm. As we kick off the new year, 2026 suggests an exciting direction for Troyboi’s future releases.
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