Detroit-born artist steps into full creative control with haunting new release
Megan Kashat is set to release her most personal and ambitious work to date, “The Defendant (Lucifer’s Games),” on June 6. This marks the first time Kashat has fully written, produced, and performed a track herself, showcasing her evolution as a multifaceted artist.
The song delves into the emotional aftermath of her recent divorce, offering listeners a raw and intimate experience. Its dark, haunting, and sensual tones are complemented by vivid, descriptive lyrics that paint a vivid picture of her journey through trauma and healing.
Enhancing the track’s depth is the collaboration with Ukrainian composer and producer Taras Tkachenko, who crafted the intricate string arrangements. Born in Kiev and raised in New York City, Tkachenko began his musical journey at the age of 5 with rigorous daily piano lessons. He studied composition at Bard College, where his orchestral work “Ukrainian Rhapsody” was performed by the American Symphony Orchestra. Tkachenko further honed his skills at the Aspen School of Music’s Film Scoring Program and the University of Southern California’s Screen Scoring program. His compositions often blend orchestral elements with electronic sounds, reflecting his Eastern European heritage and modern musical influences.
Kashat’s diverse background enriches her music. She studied music production at the Los Angeles Recording School, part of the LA Film School, and took courses at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts’ Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music. Additionally, she studied songwriting at the Detroit Institute of Music. Before her music career, Kashat was a professional dancer, rigorously trained in ballet and jazz at some of the world’s premier institutions. Her dedication led her to secure second place at the World Cup in the Prix de España with the American Dance Company.
“The Defendant (Lucifer’s Games)” stands as a testament to Megan Kashat’s artistic growth and resilience.