Music possesses a unique ability to influence both the body and mind, from provoking dance sessions that extend until the break of dawn to rejuvenate weary souls. It serves as an inspiration for change, sometimes embodying the essence of a mantra. And if a mantra is what you seek, look no further than New Jersey’s own Mantra Sounds, a rising force in the East Coast music scene. Moon Lvnding caught up with this rising star as she offered insight into her musical journey and the road ahead.
Giana, known by her stage name Mantra Sounds, wears the hats of a producer, singer, and songwriter. With her unique style of experimental bass underneath personal and hard-hitting raps, her songs are unmistakable. When asked about her inspirations, Mantra Sounds shared, “When I first started listening to electronic music, I was really into trap music, and eventually I started listening to more big room, and then I got into the heavy-heavy dubstep — artists like Excision and Ganja White Night.”
Apart from EDM, she highlights Billie Eilish, Lil Peep, and Chynna as her top mainstream influences. Mantra Sounds has an arsenal of original raps, some of which were showcased in The Gradient Perspective’s mix series, The Broken Beat. Beyond the studio, her live performances are dynamic and compelling as she connects with audiences through emotional depth, authenticity, and vulnerability.
Unlike many artists with a musical upbringing, Mantra Sounds’ story starts from scratch. “I never played any instruments. I don’t know music theory. I am just trying to learn as I go.” Despite the challenges of starting without formal training, anything is possible, especially when surrounded by a community of people who want to help you succeed. For her, the most challenging part was learning the software. The commands, the edits, all the plug-ins — it can be daunting. Her advice? “Read the manual, collaborate with your friends, see how they operate, and be a listener. Be coachable! It’s the most helpful way to learn what you want to do.”
While Giana continues to work towards building a global presence, she has already made significant strides in growing her brand nationally. Just recently, Mantra Sounds opened for Pretty Lights at the legendary Caverns in Tennessee and delivered a killer set at Autumn Revival in Maryland. Expressing gratitude for her supporters, she states, “I am so grateful for everybody in my corner, the Gradient Perspective team, and my friends who have been coming to shows since Day 1. All the little re-posts, likes, and shares matter — I see each of you! And my cats!”
Despite her accomplishments in the music industry, Mantra Sounds remains focused on the future. “My goal these next few years is to release more music and hopefully get some bookings out of the country!” This marks just the beginning for Mantra Sounds, and her trajectory points to a promising future.
So what’s next? A NEW EP!!
In our exclusive interview, we got a sneak peek at Mantra Sounds’ upcoming EP, Seeing Red. Pre-save it here and be ready! Want to see her live? Catch Mantra Sounds perform at the stunning Ogden Theater in Denver! On December 1, she’ll be playing on a lineup featuring Catparty, Jaenga, Chmura, and the headliner Maddy O’Neal! Tickets are going fast so secure yours here. To connect with Mantra Sounds, use the handy links below.
