Meaning: The quote by Arto Lindsay, a prominent musician, reflects the deliberate incorporation of elements from Brazilian, African, and Asian music into his work. Lindsay's statement implies that although these influences were intentionally integrated into his music, they may not have been immediately discernible to listeners at the time. This quote sheds light on Lindsay's approach to music-making, as well as the challenges of introducing diverse cultural elements into a predominantly Western musical landscape.

Arto Lindsay is known for his innovative and eclectic approach to music, drawing from a wide range of influences to create a unique and boundary-pushing sound. Born in the United States but spending much of his early life in Brazil, Lindsay has been deeply influenced by the musical traditions of both countries, as well as by the rhythms and melodies of African and Asian music. This blend of influences has contributed to his distinct musical style, which defies easy categorization and often challenges listeners' expectations.

Lindsay's deliberate use of elements from Brazilian, African, and Asian music speaks to his commitment to cultural cross-pollination and artistic experimentation. By consciously incorporating these diverse influences into his work, Lindsay aimed to create music that was rich and multi-layered, reflecting the global interconnectedness of musical traditions. However, the quote also suggests that the subtlety of these influences may have initially made them difficult for listeners to identify or appreciate.

The idea that these cultural elements "sounded so abstract" to listeners at the time underscores the challenge of introducing unfamiliar or non-Western musical elements into a mainstream context. In Western music, particularly in the context of popular music, there has historically been a tendency to prioritize familiar and easily recognizable sounds, often at the expense of more challenging or unconventional influences. As a result, artists like Lindsay who seek to push the boundaries of musical expression by drawing from diverse cultural sources may face resistance or indifference from audiences who are unaccustomed to such innovation.

Despite the initial difficulty that listeners may have had in discerning these influences, Lindsay's quote also suggests that over time, people have become more attuned to the multicultural elements in his music. This speaks to the evolving nature of musical appreciation and the increasing openness of audiences to diverse influences. As global communication and cultural exchange continue to expand, listeners are becoming more receptive to music that transcends traditional boundaries and incorporates a wide range of cultural references.

In a broader sense, Lindsay's quote can be seen as a reflection of the broader trend toward musical hybridity and cultural fusion in the contemporary music landscape. As artists increasingly draw from diverse traditions and genres, the boundaries between musical styles and influences are becoming more porous and fluid. This trend not only enriches the sonic palette available to musicians but also contributes to a more inclusive and globally aware musical culture.

In conclusion, Arto Lindsay's quote encapsulates the deliberate integration of Brazilian, African, and Asian musical elements into his work, as well as the initial challenges of making these influences perceptible to listeners. Lindsay's approach reflects a commitment to cultural cross-pollination and artistic innovation, as well as a broader trend toward musical hybridity and global interconnectedness in contemporary music. As audiences become more attuned to diverse influences, the quote also speaks to the evolving nature of musical appreciation and the increasing openness to multicultural expressions in the modern musical landscape.