Desert Bloom^CA/QC

Montréal-based musician and producer Desert Bloom (Rachel Nam) makes intricate and ethereal synth-based tracks that draw on her twin passions of classical piano and electronic music. Originally from BC, Nam came to Montréal to do a degree in biology, propelled by her fascination for the natural world. The Desert Bloom moniker is inspired by wildflowers that can flourish in the desert; that same vibrant energy is present in her debut solo EP1 cassette. The following release, DB, features rapid-fire percussive elements fused with intricate rhythms, adding a layer of urgency to her compositions. She played at MUTEK for the first time in 2019.

For this year's live set, Desert Bloom interweaves electronic textures to produce her signature dreamlike sound, while the set is stitched through with voice recordings expressing individual perspectives on love and resilience.

For the first time, Desert Bloom will be accompanied by drummer Austin Tufts, best known as part of Montréal art rock band Braids. Tufts is an accomplished drummer who began playing music at a young age. His work has included songwriting, music production, and mixing. Braids currently manage the Toute Garnie recording studio in Montréal's Mile End.