An Addictive and Vast Electronic Release from Varun Fernandes

A new EP from Goa's 15-year veteran Varun Fernandes, 'Nova', delivers a masterfully crafted Afro House soundscape that bridges the scenes of India and South Africa. This is a release that stands firmly on its own, showcasing a powerful and unique musical vision.

The 'Nova' EP brings together a distinct cultural flair with the driving, emotive pulse of modern electronic music. It is a focused, 4-track release centered around two original tracks, "Nova" and "Oyo." The EP is defined by its deep grooves, emotive melodies, and powerful ancestral rhythms, all built on a foundation of sophisticated percussion and compelling synth work.

The EP's title track, "Nova", sets the tone with its "float but still grounded" philosophy. It’s a track that balances uplifting, soaring melodies with a deep, anchoring groove. The second original, "Oyo", showcases a different energy, built around an infectious rhythm and powerful African vocal elements that define its character.

The release is transformed into a cross-continental dialogue with a world-class remix package from South African legends.

"Oyo - Cornelius SA Remix" is a peak-time festival weapon. The Anjunadeep and This Never Happened veteran delivers a powerful, bass-heavy interpretation, building tension with intricate percussion and a relentless, driving energy.

"Oyo - Josi Chave & Thandi Draai Remix" offers a soulful and deep counter-narrative. The co-production from the "Afrotech Queen" and the ZYNC Records veteran is a masterclass in groove, re-imagining the original's vocals over a warm, percussive, and beautifully textured soundscape.

The EP is rounded out by focused radio edits of both "Nova" and "Oyo," making the core ideas of the release accessible for all platforms. The full 37-minute journey is worth every second, with the extended mixes providing the space for these deep, hypnotic grooves to fully unfold.

This is a beautifully crafted set of tracks that speaks volumes for the artists behind them. While firmly rooted in Afro and Melodic House, the 'Nova' EP branches out with a unique depth and musicality that is truly world-class.

Many would consider this to be an Afro-house EP, but to me, there are a lot of other elements and layers to it that let it branch out in different directions and give it a wonderful depth rarely heard.

The record is released via  ZYNC Records, and upon listening to it, I wanted to have a chat with Varun Fernandes about how it all came together.

I'm very curious as to how a record of this style and approach gets built.

So, while you listen to this, check out our interview below so you can dig a bit deeper as you hear it all unfold.

Most importantly, remember where you heard it first.

Buzz Slayers: Let's talk about the NOVA EP! This release was alive with bright and driving remixes, synth tones, and cultural flair! How did this release come together?

It’s been a long journey. I’ve spent the last 15 years pushing underground music when it wasn’t easy to make it heard. My residencies were my way to express and promote what I believed in.

I’ve never been tied to a single genre. I've produced everything from deep to dance, always with a progressive edge. Earlier this year, I took a break from touring to focus on creating without the burnout of constant travel.

NOVA was the first project that came from that pause. Afro house was gaining momentum, but rhythm and groove have always been at the heart of my sound. This EP was my way of stepping into that space with my own touch.

Buzz Slayers: There are some amazing approaches to these remixes! Did you find the artists/producers yourself?

This EP was very carefully thought out. I actually had some of the top Afro house labels interested, but I was drawn to ZYNC Records because I saw real passion and intent from the team. Even though it’s a young label, their energy and vision stood out immediately.

Cornelius SA has been one of my favorite producers for a long time. I’ve followed his music closely and even hosted him at one of my clubs in Goa. He’s an awesome person, so when we started discussing remixers, his name came up naturally. We sent him the tracks, and he instantly said yes — which already felt like a win.

Josi Chave and Thandi Draai are Afro House veterans and part of the ZYNC family. Their unique take on the sound brought the perfect balance to this release. Everything came together seamlessly.

Buzz Slayers: Were these mixed and created at home studios and then sent to the label?

After producing music for many years, I’ve realized there’s always a way to make your ideas sound better, and there are professionals who specialize in that process. Mixing and mastering are such crucial, technical stages, and the learning never really ends.

For this EP, we worked with some of the best engineers in India to bring out the full potential of the tracks. It really opened my eyes to how much better music can sound with the right touch. Big shoutout to SHFT from Audio Sol for his incredible work!

Buzz Slayers: Who are your biggest influences musically?

My influences span from psytrance to deep house and everything in between. I’ve always been inspired by artists who create emotion through sound, regardless of genre.

Some of my early influences include BT, Astrix, CID Inc, Guy J, Sultan, Ned Shepard, and Arjun Vagale, to name a few.

Buzz Slayers: How did this all start for you as an artist and producer?

I started about 15 years ago as a resident DJ and slowly got into programming, curating, booking, and the business side of things, gradually building my way up in the scene. For the last five years, I’ve been touring across India, but I took a break this year to focus purely on making music without the timelines or stress of constantly being on the move.

Buzz Slayers: Are you performing live right now?

Not at the moment. This year has been all about creating and experimenting in the studio. Taking a step back from the road gave me the space to rediscover my sound and make music with no expectations attached.

Buzz Slayers: Now that this is out, what’s next for you?

As I mentioned, I’ve been on a break this year just to make music. My approach has been different from when I would be actively traveling for shows or curating venues. I’m super happy with all the results, collaborations, and signing tracks to some of the biggest labels in the world. I’m excited to watch all of this unfold.

Buzz Slayers: Who’s in your headphones right now?

I’m listening to everything that comes out. Sounds are changing, genres are merging, and it’s getting really interesting.

Buzz Slayers: What would you tell people they can expect from this release?

This EP is built on an emotional front. I hope everyone can relate, regardless of what music they usually listen to or if they’ve never heard this kind of music before. I’m hoping everyone can connect in some way.

Buzz Slayers: Before we go, what would you like to express to fans of the music?

Thank you for welcoming me into this space. I hope everyone can relate to these emotions and find something meaningful in the music.

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