Wasia Project talks classical music, cultural influences in new EP

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London-based sibling duo Will Gao and Olivia Hardy, known as Wasia Project, continue to captivate listeners with their genre-blending sound. Their EP "Isotope" showcases their growth as artists, following the success of tracks like "Ur So Pretty," "Petals on The Moon," "Impossible," and "Is This What Love Is." Having toured with Tom Odell and Laufey and performed at festivals like Latitude and Standon Calling, the duo recently headlined their own shows, solidifying their place in the indie music scene.

On an exchange with Music Geek, the British-Chinese musicians recounted the first time they decided to create music together and how they discovered their curiosity for songwriting at home. Additionally, the duo frequently fuse genres without labeling them, making it hard for them to describe their sound. For them, music is an outlet to create and immerse one's soul deeper.

Will and Olivia also shared that their upbringing in a mixed-heritage household enriched their perspective.

"We constantly were exposed to two different cultures. It might not have heavily made the music what it is, but it might have had an influence!"

Their early immersion in classical music through piano, violin, and singing lessons laid the technical foundation for their work as Wasia Project.

"When making music as Wasia Project, we use that training in the creative process, or at least the technical side of it."

London-based sibling duo Will Gao and Olivia Hardy, known as Wasia Project CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/LEON HEANEY

Discussing their creative process, they often integrate their visions to produce a record once they've prepared their ideas separately. The musicians also mentioned that their dynamics are somewhat complex to explain.

They clarified, "It's based on empathy, understanding each other as people, and having a mutual desire to deliver the best work we can."

Whenever they encounter differences, they naturally understand that if neither of them agrees and disregards an idea, it's a win for their work. Notably, they stated that Olivia's strength as a creative is her attention to detail and perfectionist outlook.

Their latest self-composed album, "Isotope," is the musicians' second EP that depicts the journey of discovery and realization.

"Isotope also represents the collaboration between artists to form a combined, nuanced voice," they added.

Initially driven by ambitious hopes, the record's direction evolved as the songs took shape. Discussions about the album began in April while they were on tour in Switzerland.

The artists selected "Is This What Love Is" as the core piece that set the intention of the record saying, "The creative freedom and openness we felt when we recorded the song allowed us to move to the next songs with a more open lens to ideas and possible directions."

"Somebody Come Through" became the track that completed the album.

Written later in the process, its final arrangement took time to refine.

Will shared a personal connection to "Takes Me Back Home," describing it as a nostalgic tribute to childhood memories in Beijing with their grandparents. "There's something beautifully nostalgic about that song," he said.

The duo suggested the ideal way to experience Isotope: "This record is best listened to in a safe space, in solitude, with a good pair of headphones or sound system." Reflecting on the project, they added, "We feel nourished and immensely satisfied that it is in the world."

Beyond their music, Will recently appeared in Laufey's "Goddess" music video. He described the experience as an honor and highlighted how much he learned from working with Laufey and director Celine Song.

While open to future collaborations, the duo remained noncommittal about specific plans. Meanwhile, they revealed that "Conversion" by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds is currently their song on repeat.

Recognized as one of Amazon Music and British GQ's Ones to Watch for 2024, Wasia Project expressed gratitude for the acknowledgment. "We are so fortunate to do this and to be noticed by the industry. We don't take anything for granted," they said. Following their UK tour, the duo teased fans with the promise of fresh music and renewed energy in the near future.