This was my introduction to the world of meditative, hypnotising music.
At the time, the band MaraKanda was just taking shape, finding its sound and identity — and I was invited to help define how that identity would look. They asked me to create a logo and develop the overall visual language for the project.
There’s something special about working with a band at the very beginning — when everything is still fluid, experimental, full of possibility. You’re not just designing visuals; you’re helping to shape a presence.
Here’s how they describe themselves:
"MaraKanda is a magic musical movement inspired by true music enthusiasts, DJ's and sound producers. We share a broad music vision that is based on mixing warm synthesized sounds, ethnic instruments and rhythmic percussion parts all combined in a great music experience. We mainly concentrate on Organic House, Afro House, Balearic, Downtempo and Melodic House"
Marakanda (also spelled Maracanda or Marakand) was the ancient name of Samarkand in present-day Uzbekistan.
That history shaped the visual direction. I gave the logo an old Persian city feel, with subtle Middle Eastern aesthetics and ornamental details.
I explored different lettering styles to match the band’s hypnotic, meditative sound.
The final square form brought balance — compact, grounded, almost like a timeless seal.
After designing the logo, I began developing visuals that echoed the band’s mystical vibe — inspired by Middle Eastern and Central Asian traditions, but reimagined with a modern touch.
Mandala shaped hands holding instrument Doira mixed with audio speakers
A hypnotic eye made from musical instruments and local animals
Mountains as sound waves
Heart shaped heads
Next, I explored how the visual style could be applied, mostly for social media. I mixed different approaches so each piece could vary in theme while keeping the band’s identity intact.
Here you can see the example of their Press Kit
In the end, the visual identity has its own character — mysterious and rule-breaking. That was the point. It wasn’t meant to look corporate or polished. The best way to capture it is to really feel the band’s mood and vibe.
