Chris Goa
Hailing from the sun-soaked island of Malta, Chris Goa has made his mark as a dynamic force in the global music scene. Known for his hypnotic fusion of traditional ethnic orchestrations and modern electronic soundscapes, he has carved out a distinctive niche, bringing audiences on spiritual journeys through his music. In this feature, we delve into Chris Goa’s unique musical approach, his creative journey, and his recent releases, including the much-anticipated Jewel of the Nile.
A Sound Inspired by the Cosmos and Earth
Growing up in Malta, surrounded by some of the world’s oldest freestanding temples, Chris was constantly immersed in the rich history and culture of the Mediterranean. This ancient energy played a profound role in shaping his worldview and, ultimately, his music. “I quickly realized that the energetic and vibrational nature of music, especially electronic music, deeply resonated with my ongoing quest to connect with the cosmos,” Chris shares. For him, music is not just a form of entertainment—it’s a medium to explore the mysteries of the universe and the self.
Chris Goa’s sound is a blend of deep, thumping basslines, hypnotic rhythms, and ethnic instrumentation that connects listeners with both the ancient and the futuristic. His compositions often feature a mesmerizing fusion of tribal sounds with electronic elements, creating tracks that evoke both primal and cosmic energies. His artistic vision extends beyond the music itself, incorporating visual elements and digital storytelling to enhance the listener’s journey.
Crafting “Jewel of the Nile”
Chris’s recent release, Jewel of the Nile, exemplifies his fusion of ethnic and electronic influences. The track is a collaboration with George Curmi, also known as ‘Il-Puse,’ a renowned Maltese artist. “We met through a mutual friend, and I sent him a short loop featuring the main Oud riff I had written,” Chris explains. Their creative chemistry was instant, leading to an 8-hour session that produced the track’s initial mix. The result is a two-part masterpiece: the Emerald Mix, which retains a more organic feel, and the Obsidian Mix, a club-ready version with a faster tempo and heavier bassline.
The release showcases Chris’s ability to merge the ancient sounds of the oud with modern electronic production, creating a sonic journey that transports listeners from the heart of Africa to the cosmic reaches of space. Released on May 31st, 2024, Jewel of the Nile reflects Chris’s deep understanding of the power of collaboration, allowing different artistic voices to blend seamlessly within his unique vision.
A Diverse Career and Growing Influence
Chris Goa has been an integral part of Malta’s electronic music scene since the early 2000s, but his influence has expanded far beyond the Mediterranean. His career highlights include sharing stages with international acts such as Infected Mushroom, Groove Armada, Asian Dub Foundation, and Billy Esteban. Since 2023, Chris has held a residency at the Roots Stage, the main stage at Malta’s iconic Earth Garden festival, where he sets the tone for both local and international artists.
Chris’s experience as a multimedia creative—working in TV, film, and marketing—gives him a unique edge in crafting not only music but also a powerful aesthetic that enhances his brand. “In today’s day and age, being only a musician doesn’t cut it. You need to back up your music with powerful imagery,” he emphasizes. Chris leverages cutting-edge technology, from video editing to motion design, to create a visual identity that complements his sound and helps build a lasting connection with his audience.
Cosmic Dance: A Spiritual Music Experience
One of Chris Goa’s signature projects is Cosmic Dance, a series of events that blend electronic music with ancient wisdom, healing, and spirituality. For Chris, these sessions are more than just performances—they’re immersive experiences designed to help people reconnect with their inner selves and the universe. “Cosmic Dance is a spiritual and healing journey designed to rekindle the connection with the collective consciousness,” he says. These events draw on Earth’s traditional sounds while elevating them with futuristic, high-frequency audio designed to touch the soul.
Facing the Challenges of the Modern Music Industry
Despite his success, Chris is keenly aware of the challenges that come with being a modern artist. The rapid rise of digital platforms has democratized music creation, making it easier than ever to produce and release tracks. However, this saturation has also made it harder to stand out. Chris sees social media as both a challenge and an opportunity. “It’s much easier to connect with your fans and build a solid fanbase,” he notes. However, it requires constant evolution, both musically and visually, to remain relevant in a fast-paced industry.
Looking Ahead: New Projects and Collaborations
Always pushing his creative boundaries, Chris Goa has several projects in the works. He’s currently collaborating with French artist Madma on a track titled Dezert Sun, which will feature both an original mix and a rework by Chris. Additionally, he is producing and directing a short film/music video for one of his upcoming tracks, showcasing his wide-ranging talents beyond music production.
Chris will also be performing at the Vortex Festival at Vincent’s Eco Estate on November 1st and 3rd, bringing his unique blend of ethnic and electronic music to new audiences.
Advice for Aspiring Musicians
For those hoping to follow in his footsteps, Chris Goa offers simple yet profound advice: “Always follow your dreams. When you follow your dreams wholeheartedly, put in the hard work, and make the necessary sacrifices, everything will conspire in your favor to achieve your dreams.”
With his blend of ancient sounds, cosmic themes, and forward-thinking electronic production, Chris Goa is an artist who is not only evolving but also pushing the boundaries of what music can be. Whether through his tracks, live performances, or visual art, he continues to create a deeply spiritual experience that resonates with listeners around the globe.
As Chris continues to explore new creative realms, there’s no doubt that his unique sound will continue to captivate audiences and inspire a deeper connection between music, humanity, and the cosmos.