Ireland-based Persian-German artist Aschari aka Nadia Affolter has released her new song, PYRE. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
Speaking about the track, she says, "PYRE is about the moment you realise you weren't just burned - you helped build the fire. It’s about temptation, ego, and the lessons that only come after everything goes up in flames."
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I grew up internationally. My mother is Persian-Austrian, my father is German, and I was born in Massachusetts before spending my childhood across Africa, the EU and the Middle East.
My artist name comes from my grandfather’s surname, Aschari, which loosely translates to poet or knowledgeable one. It felt fitting, especially as I’ve always been drawn to lyric-driven songwriting.
I am also an actress!
How would you describe your music?
My music is lyric-led above all else. Emotional clarity through my lyric world is essential, I love an undeniable truth. I’m drawn to lilting melodies and to the sense of a quiet motor running beneath a song. I’m also influenced by microtonal phrasing and tonal colours that reflect my Persian heritage. It sits somewhere between alternative pop and cinematic indie, but the heart of it is always the writing.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I’m inspired by many amazing artist, Laura Marling, Joni Mitchell and Jeff Buckley have been particularly important to me. I also admire the emotional weight of singers like Aretha Franklin and Etta James, and the atmosphere and edge of bands like Wolf Alice. I’m drawn to artists who combine precision in writing with conviction in performance.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Growing up, I was exposed to many different musical styles in the countries I lived in, often through the religion I was raised in. The first proper concert I remember seeing was my mother performing violin in a local orchestra in Sudan. It was stunning and left a deep impression on me.
The first large-scale concert I attended was a Billie Eilish show in New York City. It was the first time I experienced that level of production and energy, and it showed me how powerful atmosphere and scale can be in live performance.
What was the first record you ever bought?
The first record I bought for myself was Grace by Jeff Buckley becauseeee . . . well, stunning vocals and composition.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Home Again by Michael Kiwanuka. I’m feeling it.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"One lyric that has always stayed with me is by Laura Marling: "It is my right to wander, I might choose to stay, I'll find God in the strangest place".
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Who Knows Where the Time Goes as performed by Nina Simone. There’s something timeless and deeply human in that recording - it feels reflective, tender and quietly powerful all at once. Definitely give it a listen when the sky looks super colourful.
Where can people find your music/more information?
My latest single, PYRE, is out now, with more releases on the way. You can find my music on all major streaming platforms except Spotify under the name Aschari. More information and updates are available on my Instagram @aschari_mp3 and on my website.
Alan Corr
