Maxton Hunter Delivers A Meditative Journey With “Dhara / Jaya”

Santa Barbara-raised songwriter and versatile recording artist Maxton Hunter invites listeners into a serene, psychedelic soundscape with his debut sitar single, “Dhara / Jaya.”

Maxton Hunter has explored a variety of genres throughout his career, from psychedelic pop to ambient soundscapes. His latest venture sees him diving deep into the world of Eastern music, a passion that has long intrigued him. Under the mentorship of sitar maestro Rajib Karmakar, Hunter has honed his craft, leading to the creation of his first sitar-focused single, “Dhara / Jaya.”

This new song is a serene instrumental journey that blends traditional Eastern music with modern ambient and psychedelic influences. The sitar’s rich tones, complemented by subtle, psychedelic elements, make it an incredibly immersive and tranquil listening experience.

The accompanying music video was shot entirely on Super 8 film, enhancing the song’s calming vibe perfectly. Set against a backdrop of lush fields, the visuals show Hunter playing the sitar in harmony with nature. The video’s minor psychedelic touches—soft color shifts and dreamy overlays—perfectly mirror the song’s mood, creating a visual experience as soothing as the music itself.

As the track continues, “Dhara / Jaya” effortlessly blends Eastern traditional roots with modern flair. Hunter’s ability to merge these styles is wildly impressive, showcasing his versatility as an artist and his deep understanding of vastly different musical worlds. The result? A piece that soothes the mind, body, and soul.

Experience the meditative soundscapes of Maxton Hunter’s stunning new single, “Dhara / Jaya,” now available on all digital streaming platforms.

We're so impressed with your debut sitar single, "Dhara / Jaya." What inspired you to explore Eastern music and incorporate the sitar into your work?

I’ve always admired South and East Asian classical and contemporary music, so properly studying and immersing myself in Indian classical, in particular, has been very rewarding. It has completely changed my perspective as a songwriter and kind of enhanced my love for songwriting.

Hearing “Norwegian Wood” by The Beatles for the first time was pretty surreal as a young lad. Of course, little me had no idea what this foreign instrument was but I vividly remember just being so enamored by its rich, buzzing sound. Another honorable mention… watching the Monterey Pop concert film! I had it on DVD growing up, and this is how I finally figured out what the sitar even looked like!

I was honestly quite intimidated by Ravi Shankar’s performance, but I still loved it at the time. Fast forward to 2022, I found the courage to learn the instrument and connected with the Los Angeles International Music and Arts Academy. Founder of the school and sitar maestro Rajib Karmakar became my guru, and… here I am today!

The music video for DJ is visually stunning. Can you tell us about its concept and why you chose to shoot it in the Super 8 film?

Visually stunning was the goal! This is actually my first music video, and it was in collaboration with my dear friend and long-time collaborator Roberto Johnson, who directed, shot, and edited everything. He did an absolutely phenomenal job and I’m genuinely so proud of all the work we put into this release.

We both knew that the songs deserved something visually pleasing, so we deliberately chose locations that were meaningful and relevant: Ellwood Bluffs (Goleta), San Marcos Foothills Preserve (Santa Barbara), and Lake Shrine / Self-Realization Fellowship (Pacific Palisades).

Nothing was captured digitally either, so the “thrill of risk” relying on 8mm film made us more creative, I’d say, and really committed to what we were documenting.

How does DJ reflect your evolution as an artist, especially compared to your earlier work? Might you continue making Eastern-influenced songs in the future?

Having produced many psychedelic and ambient records in the past, I don’t think longtime listeners of mine are too shocked that I'd be channeling this style of music now.

However, I’m aware that these stand-alone sitar singles may be more polarizing for folks just discovering me, but that’s just life. Too many artists these days are trying to pump out the same songs and please an algorithm, which is a major turnoff for me.

I personally love it when someone's discography takes you on a little trip around the world.

My forthcoming EP – out next summer – is also produced by Ryan Pollie and will include various vocalists and blend more Eastern instrumentation with traditional Americana and my “indie” rock roots.

What do you want listeners to feel when hearing a DJ? How do you want this song to impact them?

I really just want people to feel a sense of calmness. For listeners unfamiliar or possibly even intimidated by Eastern music, I encourage folks to give it a chance and be open to the experience. We need to be more patient with music again. And in an era of hyper-music and sound bites, I guarantee it’ll offer a refreshing 7-minute break in your day.

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