Paitra’s debut EP is a vibrant fusion of the genres that have shaped her musical journey: folk, rock, psychedelic, singer-songwriter, and pop. “I’ve never felt drawn to sticking within a single sound or box; each song brings out a different side of me, and I like to follow where the feelings and sounds lead,” she explains. Originally from Timmins, Ontario, Paitra grew up immersed in the rich harmonies and storytelling of ‘70s rock and folk legends like Fleetwood Mac, the Eagles, Led Zeppelin, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. After moving to Toronto in 2017, she began blending these timeless influences with modern textures, experimenting with a sound that is both nostalgic and unmistakably her own. Over a decade of playing in various bands set the stage for her solo project in 2023, which led to the creation of this carefully crafted EP, reflecting her range and the freedom she finds in music.
The making of the EP was an adventure in itself. Paitra spent nearly a year searching for the right producer before discovering Tyler Fogerty (Hearty Har, John Fogerty), whose vision matched hers perfectly. “The very next day, the California wildfires began. We had to evacuate that night, and for nearly two weeks, we were separated amid the chaos and uncertainty,” she recalls. Yet, once it was safe, they returned to complete the sessions, bringing together the incredible musicians who helped realize her vision. The result is a genre-blurring collection that balances soft, introspective moments with bold, playful bursts of energy, blending modern alternative-pop with nostalgic California rock. From the EP’s first single, “Too Stuck (In My Head),” to the whimsical dual release of “Love Calls”/“I’m Your Answer” and the ethereal, slightly psychedelic title track, A Universal Feeling offers a glimpse into every facet of Paitra’s artistry—raw vulnerability, playful confidence, and a distinct voice that’s entirely her own.
