HIP Hop star Thxa Soe released his third album, Pha A Tu Ma A Tu (The holy things come from mum and dad) on February 15. The collaboration with his younger brother, Bon Von, features 13 tracks including Bon Von’s famous song, Ya know my name.
Yadana Htun had a chance to catch up with the blazing brothers at the album launch.

When did you first decide to create this album?
When I came back from London in 2004, I planned to release an album with singer Bar Bu. But it just couldn’t happen for a variety of reasons. At that time, I also noticed my brother’s talent. He was really developing as a MC so I decided to make the album with him. It has been busy for sure. This is a bit different from my last two releases. I mixed electro music and hip hop in this album. It’s my new creation. The title of this album is dedicated to my father.

What difficulties did you face while you were making this album?
The biggest hassle was when making the track for Boo Thi Nu Nu Ma Khu Ya (Don’t taste it before it is ripe). I sampled a Mandolin instrument for this track. I found it hard to lay it down amongst the electro loop.

Any songs you feel the fans’ will really get into?
Every one has their own taste. But I think that Boo Thi Nu Nu Ma Khu Ya should grab their attention.

You had great success with your last two albums. People threw water wildly to your tunes at last years Thingyan (Water) Festival. What do you hope this album will bring?
Well firstly I don’t release these songs with the aim of providing a soundrack to the Thingyan Festival. But I am hoping to release a new album before the festival, before April. It will include remixed versions of some Myanmar tradiitonal songs. I also plan to use traditional instruments on this album.

You made all the beats for this album?
Yes. But U Hla Tin, Ko Zaw, Moe Moe and Yawar Sar Sein Hla Ngwe helped me with the tracks.

As a young, western influenced artist, what’s your take on traditional Myanmar music?
I like to mix different music, I’m hope to bring the traditional music to the modern world, for the younger generation to enjoy. I never think I break with tradition. I always try to be better.

Have you been criticised for using traditional music?
Yes I have. But U Hein Latt said at my launch that he is proud of me because I’m bringing younger people closer to traditional Myanmar through my music. We need more people who welcome the youth like U Hein Latt.

Do you think the world can find out about our music through your tunes?
I’m trying.

And a quick word with Bon Von:

When did you first get into Hip Hop? Why?
Since 2000. It’s my brother. He gave me some albums to listen to and that was that.

Most brothers are usually into different things, but not you two?
At least it’s just the same with our taste of music. We are different in other ways.

What’s your passion in music?
I’m only interested in the singing and composing side of Hip Hop. I don’t dig making music.

How much are you influenced by your brother?
A lot! Maybe 60 percent of my work is influenced by him. I am developing my own style but he has been important in shaping me.