The podcast Long Take: Life as an Artist dives into deep conversations with artists from across the globe, focusing on musicians and sound creators. Hosted by Norient founder, anthropologist, writer and audiovisual artist Thomas Burkhalter, it explores the personal journeys of these artists – their aspirations, successes, challenges, creative processes, and perspectives on the world. The podcast is minimally edited, offering authentic portrayal of each artist, revealing the person behind the art. It serves as a valuable, freely accessible resource for anyone researching music, sound, culture, and politics. Listen via Spotify or YouTube.

  • Podcast by Thomas Burkhalter
    In this episode of «Long Take: Life as an Artist», we meet young Bangladeshi hip-hop artists Gold Cube, Paital, and RizwanOnTheBeat. Through their lyrics and beats, they tackle social issues and shed light on the challenges young people face in Bangladesh.
  • Podcast by Thomas Burkhalter
    In this episode of «Long Take: Life as an Artist», we meet Bangladeshi rapper Skibkhan, a member of the pioneering hip hop crew Deshi MCs. He delves into the creative process behind his lyrics and explores his role and responsibilities as a rapper in Dhaka.
  • Podcast by Thomas Burkhalter
    In the third episode of «Long Take: Life as an Artist», Asif Iqbal, known as Aia Lemonsky, recalls how writing songs gave him strength to survive his time in prison. He sings us some of these songs - with the sounds of Dhaka in the background.
  • Podcast by Thomas Burkhalter
    In the third episode of «Long Take: Life as an Artist», Mohamed Rai and his friend Hanan share their perspectives on the challenges of pursuing a career in the Maldives, and about peforming cover songs at resorts.
  • Podcast by Thomas Burkhalter
    In this episode of «Long Take: Life as an Artist», Maldivian singer, producer, and artist Zara Mujthaba shares insights into her musical journey, her involvement with the influential Maldivian collective Dinba Family, and on the evolving tourism industry in the Maldives.
  • Podcast by Thomas Burkhalter
    In the debut episode of «Long Take: Life as an Artist», Yakawrath, aka Fira, an experimental psytrance musician and a 2D/3D artist from the Maldives, opens up about his journey as an underground artist in Malé City.