Narayana Johnson is a composer, electronic music producer and multi instrumentalist. His music draws extensively on his childhood and teenage years spent roaming creeks, forests and mountains in the Northern Rivers, NSW.
His work as one half of Willow Beats saw songs garnering millions of plays on streaming platforms along with multiple full rotation adds to Triple J. The duo had sell-out tours across Australia along with playing Splendour in the Grass, Falls Festival, Beyond the Valley, Clockenflap (Hong Kong) and supporting artist such as Flume and Tash Sultana.
His work has also extended to video game composition where he is currently working as Audio Director with Massive Monster.
Cult of the Lamb
As Audio Director of Massive Monster, I composed, produced and implemented the award winning music of Cult of the Lamb. I also worked on VO (recording most of the voices myself), recorded and implemented atmospheres and worked on many of the SFX.
Koala
I reimagined, produced and recorded this version of Home Among the Gumtrees. I wanted it to be playful and fun but it also needed to have a bittersweet element. Like getting home after a hard day. Animation by the funktion.
River Boy
River Boy is my solo artist moniker. This song is about rediscovering your creative energy and spirit. The cheesy midi flutes introduced in the final chorus are inspired by the Super Nintendo game Donkey Kong Country which are nostalgic for me and a reminder to bring childish curiosity into adulthood. Animated by Prema Weir.
Willow Beats
I’m one half of the duo Willow Beats. I was particularly fascinated by the idea of a symbiosis between nature and machinery at the time. A hope that technology will be able to help reverse some of the damage we’ve done to our planet. Full list of credits in the youtube description.
DRMNGNOW
I produced and recorded this track with Yorta Yorta, DjaDja Wurrung artist DRMNGNOW. Kee’ahn blessed us with add libs and vocals on the chorus. Minimal production here, just trying to leave space for both artists to shine through. Visuals by Luke Simm.
Massive Monster
I composed/produced the music for the game Unicycle Giraffe. The music has a repeated motif which nods to a “try try again” attitude. The chord progression, soaring melodies and relentless drums aim to capture the feeling of determination against all odds. Game development and art by Julian Wilton.