http://www.mehlive.cjb.net :: -- eXclusive Interview and mehmood yahya

Iriqa at First Glance

By Ali Maqbol

Silence is a sin in its own self.
Compliance to any unjust and oppressive system, is not only self-denial but also invitation to ideological death.
Irtiqa has come around, Irtiqa has been done justice.

Danish Jabbar Khan’s brain child video, EP’s Irtiqa 3, might just be what the doctor ordered. Consequently, all questions and doubts in Xulfi’s direction have been cleared. Everyone knows that Entity Paradigm is centered around the great lord Maynard’s thoughts, for a band that has its common strings as Tool and A Perfect Circle, but being the over speculative critic of pretty much everything in life, I was sure they would miserably fail short of impressing me.

Irtiqa is just too hard a track to handle. The undertoned influx of lyrical power, the vortex the symphony leaves in your mind. I thought it was a track that would eventually be ruined by the flowery lovey dovey videos that we are witness to today.

What I experienced has left me breathless. The conundrums of media, and its resulting philosophical babble.The dogmatic and over-opinionated institutions that we are embedded in, living away our lives and existences for a big aggregate void. What we live for is not important anymore, what we accomplish in life is not even mentionable. Each one of us is dreaming of an over-night revolution, the delusional dilemma. The hope that one fine day all will be just how we want it.

We wish for so much yet offer so little to the world ourselves. The video has done the song complete justice.
The camera angles and lighting forbid the need or presence of any special effects. The video has been made using elementary methods, none of the hifi razz mataz that contemporary videos take as a must-have. The globe of plastic.
The men covered with their words. The toy surrounded by dark wires. The laughter in the background. The silent compliance of the toy.

The video re-emphasizes time and again the blinding greed and malice of money. The lies that we feed into the world, and the lies that the world feeds into us. The graphical innuendos and sublime messages in the video are countless and many, and it doesn’t take a critic that understands the Mona Lisa in them.

The video is profound in its thought, yet its understood at first glance. That’s the melancholic beauty of it.

I commend the details, and the importance given to detail in the video. I see no error in shooting angle, or in set placement, which is rare. The details that I mentioned earlier are shown greatly towards the end. The chains pulling mankind along the tracks towards death, certain death.

Musically Irtiqa is an intertwined and mystical masterpiece, backed up by this amazingly well made video portrayal of its powerful bellowed out lyrics.

Over all the video gets a 9 outta 10 rating from my side with the one deducted only for it not being a short film

"All there ever was to black and white
Our street lamps sorrow - Along with our shadows - Obtuse" - Jahilia Calling

Does it get more abstract than that? I'm quite sure not. Faraz Anwer and Babar Shaikh came together once again under 'Dusk' in 2003 to create a masterpeice which I can't classify neither as progressive metal or death; so
you decide what genre 'Jahilia' - the latest from Dusk falls under. The album is not for the faint of heart in the least. Faraz Anwer's guitar playing fueled wid complex drum patterns and time signatures is a treat for the ears. Though let me warn you that this album is not for everone, though it does eventually grow on you.

The album kicks of with 'Attachments.'Babar 'whispers' (if I haven't already mentioned) his complex thoughts over the music of what seems to be the organ playing. This somewhat 'eerie' track sets the mood for the rest of the album.'Hidden from senses' outlines dark lyrics with Faraz's intricate guitar work, which only gets better with the restof the album. What follows is probably the highlight of the album: 'Jahilia Calling.' The song starts off with whatseems like voodo chanting (no punn intended) which matures into realatively heavy guitar play laden with evenmore abstract thoughts of our very own desi prodigy: Babar Shaikh! As the song progresses, Faraz surroundsthe listener in an intense guitar solo which continues almost till the end. The melancholy in 'The subduedlight' can be felt throughout the track and is further highlighted by the glum intro and yet another intense soloby Faraz. One thing I must mention is that the rhythm section of this track is incredible; excellent bass work! 'TheSubdued light' is followed by 'Night Bulb Angel' which contains the most complex lyrics featured on the album. It's one of the faster tracks on the album and also one during which (I'm quite sure) the time signature changes. A track one absolutely should not skip. 'As pain becomes liquid' is a 'semi-instrumental' track. I'm using the word semi here because of the fact that after after about 2 mintues into the track, what seems to me as random mumblings (no pun intended) are to be heard; so someone help me out here please! Though the eerie organ music overlayed with piano in the first two minutes or so is quite a good composition. The concept of this 'semi-instrumental'? I guess only Mr. Babar would know. The last track featuring lyrics is 'Decadent little Girl' which is another relatively faster track on the album. The rhythm section on this one has also done an amazing job. Furthermore, the screaming guitar solo on this one makes it another must hear. The last track is another 'semi-instrumental.' Starting off with a sweet melodic piano intro, the track progresses into the 'voodo chanting' I mentioned earlier which continues till the end. And that my friend, is the end.

Overall, the album is very technical and the masses of our country are not ready for it yet. I guess that is the reason why its not been released in Pakistan. But do give it a shot. You just might end up liking it. But how do you get your hands on a CD that's not available anywhere in Pakistan? You can leave that up to UMR.

Social Circus Album Review

by Saphiya Khan

Gone are the days when I could pop a polo, insert a junoon album in the player and relax on my bed knowing I wouldn’t have to move an inch to either to fast forward a song or spit out my polo. Things have changed massively and the present-day situation might just be an episode of twilight zone, if compared. Ever since Anoushey modeled for Polo, I’ve discarded it as one of my favorite ‘poppers’. The sweet-mint taste is just not the same, or may be it’s my taste-buds. Sad scene,I tell you. Oh and Junoon? Well, it’s the same polo mystery, only worse. Aazaadi and Deewar are worlds apart and as I type this, even that seems less of a distance.

Clutching to old fame can be hazardous. Not only for an artist, but the entire fan-following. What better way to prove it than Ali Azmat’s solo album Social Circus. The dude definitely deserves praise for his abilities as a composer and song writer. I could have staked a million dollars on a few songs and set all other bets off (IF I had a million dollars i.e., but that’s another tale- totally off the point). Having said that, I also wouldn’t have spent a penny on the rest, even if I was Paris Hilton and didn’t have to worry about having a job for the rest of my life. That good and that bad. The album is a high-and-low game. Some tracks have hit the jack-pot by hitting home in millions of head; the others might as well be in Portuguese for all I care.

The lyrics are a marvel-generally speaking. They are fairly intense, having just the right amount of randomness, a generous sprinkle of rhyme and reason and then a handful of pain, pleasure, dreams and hopes. Powerful. Very powerful, I must say. We are talking about lyrics that can swirl in you and make you get up and run for it-whatever ‘it’ might be. Ali Azmat has definitely proved his point in this area. He is no Clapton, but I have to give it to him for creating this magic.

The music, on the other hand, is where he lost points. The creativity is there but its amount is limited. See, when you speak of Ali Azmat, someone who has been there, done that for some fourteen years, you don’t want to mean some pieces of drumming crumpled in with some bass and lyrics that sink in only after you listen to the song over and over again some twenty times. Tracks like na re na, mungagan, dil ka jehan and Teree Perchaeeyaan are no doubt fascinating,to say the least but I wonder what Ali has to say about Dil ney dil sey kaha and Dil ki sira.

Amongst the 11 songs the artist has produced, I would give the trophy to Mungagan. This powerful number outstood the others by several miles. It brings back memories of old junoon, the one that existed before commercialism hit it hard and it reincarnated into a rather ‘social’ Junoon. Sameer Ahmed’s ability at his bass-work captures you within the first few seconds of the song which remains in Azmat’s grip until his husky voice lowers down, concluding an end.

Na rey Na is definitely one of the finest pieces created. The video is one of the best and won my million dollar award the moment it aired. The concept along with the quality of the song has blown the viewers off. The music slows down on the right spots and Ali displays his ability to take high notes as if a random conversation was going on.
Dil ka jehan generates a subdued melancholy that hovers in your mind long after you have heard the song. The song’s spirited, rich and excels at being rhythmic. Quite unlike Mein challa which is a result of poorly constructed tempo and a beat that does not belong and we could definitely skip the stretch and fold of the voice.

Left to himself, Ali Azmat has created one definite master piece: Teree Perchaiyaan. The song effortlessly is a compensation for the other weak pieces and that too single handedly. Ali has boosted the splendid lyrics for this song with a beautifully composed tone that has the ability to make you feel its might. Even if one finds himself in a maze of endless impossibilities, wrist-slitting pain and worthless wait whenever I listen to this track and by the time it ends,it’s one long,smooth road-the maze is gone. That’s what I meant by powerful.

It wouldn’t be fair to say Deewana was a track worth shooting a video on. Sure it can catch your mind, but that’s after it waves a bright red handkerchief in front of you reminding you of its existence. Had it not been for the video, the song wouldn’t be remembered. It lacked spirit and the composition might have been too seriously done. There’s no smell of freedom in there, if you know what I mean.

Yaar merey yaar doesn’t seem to tickle the fancy either. Ali could have done much better than that on those lyrics. It might grow on you though, once you put it on repeat on your WMP. Main is a rather catchy number, uplifted by the bass but it’s still not something that would come close to the best tracks of this album. Dil Ki Sira is however, the track I would discard, if given the chance. Enough said,me thinks.

Piyaas somewhat succeeds in grabbing attention and moulding it to its beat. The track has also played its fair share in keeping the album sailing. Dil Ney dil sey kaha reminds me of triangular party hats and men dressed in all white with red bows and the women with their cheer-leading pomp pomps. It failed miserably to cast an impression,too teeny bopper-ish for that.

Conclusion is, the album is definitely worth the 30 or 70 rupees you spend on it or in my case, the constant back-ache that came as an after effect of staying online all night for two days to download the entire album (die bloody dial up die!) It is more of expressions that this guy has promoted with Social Circus and we should look at it that way, rather than viewing him with a preconceived impression of a bald, rich rock star. Remember that: expression good/impression bad. When it comes to judging someone’s work, you can not use their appearances as the criteria. Now go buy the album, listen to some mungagan and pop in some spout-old polo days are gone. *Sniff*!

By Faizan Jawed

Sameer Saleem, a new youth emerging from the city of Karachi having the phenomenal power of his vocals. Now sets foot into the music scene with his latest song "Aja Re." Today we come forth to know more about his potential sna dhis future plans with his interest in music.

Downloads:

Video - Aja Re

Audio - Aja Re

Hello sameer ... how are you doing today ?

Hi, I'm doing great ALHAMDOLILLAH.

Give us an introduction about yourself ? How you came to the music industry ?

Well it all started years back when i was a kid. I always wanted to be a classical singer. I performed in my family musical functions. So at a very young age of 7 i got used to performing live on stage. That's how it all started and step by step I got more interested in becoming a proffesional singer. So i decided to persure my dream and here I am now in front of you with few of my songs and the album will be coming up soon INSHALLAH.

Tell us something about ur genre of music ? What type of music Sameer Saleem do.?

Basically i'm a classical singer but i love to do all sort of music from CLASSICAL to ROCK, from POP to BLUES, i've also done a HIP-HOP song in my album. You will find 'Sameer Saleem' as natural as he is in all of his songs.

Have you had any music related training of any sort? You are inspired by whom ?

I wont say I had any 'USTAAD' but I used to train on other legendary singers who r my 'INSPIRATIONS' as well, such as 'Ustad Baray Amanat Ali Khan', 'Ustad Mehdi Hassan Khan', 'Ghulam Ali Khan', 'Salamat Ali Khan', 'Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan', 'Reshma', 'Abida Parveen', Mohammed Rafi', 'Kishore Kumar', 'Sonu Nigum', Jagjit Singh', Lata Mangeshkhar' & 'Asha Bhosle'.

How do you feel on stage? Tell us something about your 1st live performance?

I feel really good and comfortable while I'm on stage because I just prefer performing LIVE with only 2 things in my mind, to go out and give my best. I performed live when i was very young i guess i was 7 years old when I performed the song by Kishore Kumar 'Meray Naina Sawan Bhaado'. It was the most difficult song for me to perform. It was one of my fav. songs. I was performing at a Wedding Ceremony which had a large number of crowd. At 1st I thought that people might make fun of me but when I finished the song all of them were amazed to see such a small child performing such a difficult song.

How has your family, supported you in terms of music, and whoelse has been supporting you towards it?

My family has always been very supportive, especially my Mother, as she supports me alot by backing me up and she really trusts in the music which i do. She gives me ideas all the times. Other than that one of my friend Zeeshan Hayat has supported me alot towards music.

Okay, now coming to your single that has been released "Aa Ja Re" tell us something about that... How did you composed it, any personal experiences? Also tell us something about its video.
Ok. Well this song 'Aa Ja Re' is a complete composition of only 3 hours but it is due to the painfull memories in the past. Coming towards to the video, well it has been directed by my friend and a very talented musician and singer Zeeshan Hayat. He's also a featured singer in the song as well. It was all shot just in 2 days, 1st day shoot was of morning and the other day was of evening shoot. I did my best and so did Zeeshan.... Hope u all like the Video.

Do you have a home-based studio, or prefer using a professional studio for recording Aa Ja Re and other songs ?

I prefer using a Proffesional Studio becasue i cant compromise on the quality of my music. My complete Album is Recorded, Mixed and Mastered at Zeeshan Hayat's Studio.

Other than music, what else do you like doing? Any more interests?

I'm into a lot of sports, like swimming, tennis, basketball, snooker, soccer and PS2 games....I love hanging out with my friends, Love to walk on the beach alone. I'm a sports bike riding fanatic... also i love to read and write poetry. I Love to push my-self in every aspect.... you can say i'm totally an extremist.

How do you think, can the current media scene, support in rising the underground bands and solo artistes?

Well I think the current media must support the upcoming solo artists and bands by giving them the oppurtunities to get their videos done at a low rate but with a good quality, like people are still doing. The Pvt.Channels must support all the artists by giving them an On-Air hype, which can really make the rise to the fullest.

What do you have to say about the currents scenario of music that is going on in Pakistan at the moment?

I think everyone is doing their job perfectly no matter wat the genre is. We have plenty of names in the music field of Pakistan which are called the pioneer's in Music Industry and its good to see so much talent coming up these days. It has really improved the music scene of Pakistan. INSHALLAH soon pak music industry will be among the best music industries in the entire WORLD.

What else do you have in store for the fans in future?

UmMmMmm.... Well what does a musician or a singer has for his fans.... I will only say that i will give them the best songs i can and INSHALLAH i wont let them down.

In the end ...would you like to share some words with your fans?

Well there's a lot more to come for my fans but i'm waiting for the rite time to come and would ask all my fans to trust me as they are already doing and would say that i'm in-complete without them so please dear fans, do appreciate my other songs like you did for 'Aa Ja Re'. I wont let you fans down, Thanx for being so supportive.

Final Words..

Well my final words.....May ALLAH Bless my country and every person living in it. I hope i would be able to do something good with my songs for HUMANITY & PEACE, INSHALLAH if I would get the chance, i will surely fight to remove poverty, illeteracy, hunger, pain and wahtever is there which harms my fellow country men. May ALLAH TA' AALA always bless Pakistan and this great nation (Ameen).

Exclusive_ interview with Sifaar The Band

By FAIZAN JAWED

Alot of talent emerging everyday, but its quiet uncommon to see talented bands being highlighted, and Sifaar is one of them. In todays time, Sifaar with their debut release 'Hudh' has astonished many musicians with their potentials. Both Haider and Omer, formely known to be the session players of Jal and Atif, have now combined together to form their very own backbone band, Sifar. Lets see what they have instored for us, with Faizan Jawed spends his time with them...

Give us an introduction about yourselves?
Haider: Im currently doing Arts from FC college and have been doing music for like 4 years now i am 17 years old and i am a Scorpio.
Omer: I am almost done with my matriculation and have been doing music for 4 years too. I am 16 years old and i'm a Scorpio too.

The band consists of how many band members? And what role do they play ?
The band consists of two members;
Haider Haleem on Lead Guitars and;
Omer Nadeem on Lead Vocals

When and who initiated ‘Sifaar’ to form?
Omer and I have known each other for quite some time now, but we planned to form a band since June of 2004. We had just started playing sessions for 'Roxen' and were very eager to start something on our own. That's when we decided to form Sifaar cause we wanted to have some space to do our style of music.

What does the band name ‘Sifaar’ mean and how did u come up wid such a name?
Sifaar is a word from greek mythology.It represents a circle, a sphere of creativity which is beyond the limits of time or space. The name actually represents our music, its all about creativity and thats why we thought this was the right name for us. We were suggested this name by Adeel Anwar commonly known as 'Eddie' who is a very close friend of the band.

How long have you been involved in the Pakistani Music scene? How did you enter the field of Music? band?
Well, we've been involved in music since the year 2001. We actually started out in a band called Jal. Then the band broke up and then we went with Atif Aslam who was formerly a singer of that band and we played with him for about 6-7 months after that we did some session work for 'Rox3n' before finally ending up in making our own band Sifaar.

What kind of music does Sifaar play? And what are its musical influences?
Well Sifaar is basically about doing all kinds of music we can possibly do, as long as it all sounds good to us. These days people have their own choices and mostly they argue on the fact that watever they like is the "TRUE MUSIC". But wat we believe is that music is music there is nothing like "true of false" in it lolz hope u get the idea. We want to experiment with our music as much as possible. Basically its rock but rock isn't just rock it has so many other areas in it that we have yet to explore like pop rock, punk, funk, soft and many more. So thats how we're working, and we're influenced by quite a lot of western and local artists like Staind, The Corrs, Bryan Adams, Pearl Jam, Metallica, Mekaal Hasan Band, Junoon and many more.

Your debut song, 'Hadh', has been appreciated a lot amongst the fans out there, what was your prediction of the song, before release?
Well, we didn't know how the people were going to respond to our song and we thought it would be heard and then just forgotten about. But since the release we've been proved wrong by the people, though somewhere in the back of our minds we had some idea that it might click. And we are thankful to everyone who has praised and acknowledged our effort :).

Who helped in composing the song? Tell us more about your song ‘Hadh’
Omer and I basically came up with the composition and it was my mother who wrote the lyrics for the song. Of Course, after we went to the studio Mekaal Hasan and Salman Albert helped us improve the song. Mekaal contributed his guitar solos and bass lines to our song, and Salman Albert helped us with the arrangements of the song and drums too.

Are all songs written by ur mother?
No, uptill now its only Hadh that she's written. Most of the other songs are written by Adeel Anwar(Eddie), who also suggested the band name to us. He pretty much writes all the lyrics, and is pretty good at writing lyrics and Inshallah you'll see that in our upcoming songs.

Have you had any musical training? What do you think, should a musician have the basic knowledge of music, is it important?
No, I did'nt have any formal musical education. Nor does Omer. I basically took few lessons from Gohar(JAL), books and the Internet and thats where i started off. Omer Just learned along with me through books and internet. Musical Education is very important for both musicians and vocalists. Its the base for every musician. We too are planning to get more music training with the passage of time cause it helps a lot to improve oneself :)

How do you plan to promote it in the current media scene?
First through the Internet and then when we have the time we'll shoot the video and hopefully that'll help promote the song reach distant masses.

Do you plan to release some more songs, before the video that is?
I'm not sure about that. Maybe a few demos for the next songs but I'm not sure if we'd release full songs. We certainly got some songs in the pipeline though, which are nearly ready to be recorded.

Where do you jam your songs?
We usually jam our songs at Haider's place....as the environement suits the creative aspect to flourish.

How do you think, can the current media scene, support in rising the underground bands?
Well first of all i think the webzines really help in promoting the underground bands, and the local radio stations can play the songs because radio and internet are used everywhere. So i think they're a pretty good source for promoting underground bands. Webzines like UMR and others have really helped promote the underground music scene for quite some time now. Coming to Tv Channels the obvious two names that come to our mind are Indus Music and ARY The Musik, both channels are really helping out new talent to establish their status in music industry.

Have you ever performed live on stage? Which has been your most rememorable concert of all times?
Well not played live as Sifaar yet but have played live with other people on stage. And everytime its a wonderful experience. The most memorable performance that we can recall is Wall's Carnival in Islamabad in 2004. That was a pretty good one for us i think . We performed with Atif there.

What are the feelings that you go through before a show and after it?
There's always excitement before a show. We're always taking a sneak peak at the audience attending the event and we're all excited. When we're on the stage its always weird 'cause you don't really know whats going on out there in the audience and after we're off the stage we're kind of dazed and not in the mood to talk to anyone. Its an undescribable feeling.

Something you want to share regarding your roles with Atif and Jal ?
No, i'm afraid we've nothing to share about our roles with Jal except that Omer played bass with Jal and lead guitars for Atif. I played rhythm guitars for Jal and rhythm for Atif. We had sessionists playing bass and drums with Atif.

Future Plans?
We plan on doing a video, some demos of the other songs and then releasing an album down the road. We are not sure when are we going to release the album as we have to look for an appropriate time to do that.

Share few words…
Well just listen to good music and appreciate it and dont criticize things that you dont have a clue about. This might seem rude but we have seen people around who just criticize something just for the sake of being cool and like they have an opinion about everything. So please avoid doing that, and support the upcoming talent. Criticizing when done with the fact that you want others to improve is good but in Pakistan mostly people criticize in a wierd manner and makes the musician lose all hopes as if they are no good. Hope you get what we mean to say.

Thank You for your time Sifaar the band, it was really nice having to know about you guys, We on UMR wish you all the best with all your future ventures and also hope to see you perform live in a concert.

Exclusive_ Imik's 'Zamana Badley Ga!'i

Imik, not an ordinary name in the Pakistani Industry, with his debut launch of the song Piya, this youthful artists grabbed attention instantly in the market. And since then he has been reknowned for his vocal capabilities in Music. Today we come forth with him, telling us more about himself, his experiences, his future plans and what his message is towards his followers.

'Zamana Badlay Ga' is a very aspiring sort of title for an album, why did you choose this title and wht are you aiming to change in the current ‘zamana'?

Although Zamana Badlay Ga is not the best track in my album but i kept it as a title track because there is a positive message in the song. The song itself is very aspiring for me cause the time I was recording my album it was a lot of work and struggle. There was nobody there to guide me, I was doing everything on my own. Such as running after musicians, directors, hiring studios then going to different channels, radio stations and then convincing them to play my songs. Trust me its not an easy job for a single guy to do all that stuff. I also had very less support from my family but I had complete faith in my self as well as in God and I finally made the album and all my hard work is now paying off. (thank u God for giving me courage and patience). So basically the song is about, if you want to get somewhere in life you have to be focused and consistent and you should struggle for it till you get what you want. Never give up and have faith in yourself, in God and in your work and never lose hope.

You of course come from Pakistan, What do you have to say about the current rock/grunge genre of music that everyone has adopted. If music is about culture then how does rock music depict our culture?

Its a good thing that people are finally developing ear to listen to different genres of music especially rock music and this is, thanx to our media who are promoting such bands. Rock music doesnt depict our culture but there is no harm in adapting it, we need to get out of stone age we should open up our minds and broaden our horizons.

Your album has a mix of different types of songs, it has romantic as well as ambitious songs in it, how has the response been so far?

The response has been tremendous, I wasnt expecting that things would start changing so fast. This is just the beginning of my career, and im not a seasonal artist, im here to stay(inshallah)i will keep giving my fans quality music and songs in the future too.

Which band/artist has inspired you the most and why? And name the Pakistani artists you enjoy listening.

My favorite artist is Dave Matthews, not only the guy is a good singer but he is also a true musical genius. His song writing is so closed to reality, and in real life he is very down to earth, sweet and humble, i enjoy listening to all the the new Pakistani rock bands.

Kamran the guy in your first video ‘piya' is your brother? Do you think your album would have been a different piece altogether if he was here and helping you out with music?

Well i dont think so, Kamran is into music but not as much as I am. He never wanted to pursue music as a career, hes a good song writer but not a good musician.

There is a certain trend being followed these days, there are about an infinite number of singers without any musical training whatsoever? Have you had any music related training of any sort?

This is true that there are a lot of singers out there, who don't know jack about music or singing but they are singing and they totally depend on computer softwares to tune their vocals. But the public is not dumb they know that whose the real deal and whose not. I never had any formal musical training from anywhere, I'm a self taught musician, i learnt music from tutorials, books, guitar magazines and tablatures. I feel that im blessed in more than one way.

What else do you have in store for the fans in future?

I know its still too early to ask for new singles (lol) , but perhaps another video wouldn't harm =)

I will soon be working on my next vdo, but I cant tell you the name of the song yet.

Before we end, where was ‘akhiyan milalay' shot and whats the concept or story behind the video?

My perfomance was shot at Shara-i-Faisal behind duty free shop and the female car shots was done at sea view. Basically its a performance video not a conceptual one. The director wanted to show in the video that I'm an underground singer whose having a concert and he really looks forward that the girl of his dream would come to his concert, but the girl whose very rich and spoiled shows up at the concert very late.

For the fans..........

i would like to give them this message, "catch one of your dreams and follow it".

Download Imiks Tracks:
Jab Talak
Akhiyan Milaleh Accoustic

Interview Conducted by Batool Tahir

Exclusive_Kings of Bhangra Pop, Stero Nation

By Ahmed and Batool

The kings of Bhangra pop, they came they sang and they conquered!!! Their songs are being played in every club and dance party. Stereo Nation are indeed doing a great job out there. Today we sit down, to have achat about what Stereo Nation is all about.

Every body knows you (ofcourse), But like they ask in every interview, introduce yourself ?
Name: Taz Band: Stereo Nation Music: Fusion. I have been in the music industry for around 15 years and have toured extensively across the globe. I've had a fantastic career to date working in Bollywood, Lollywood and the UK Desi and Mainstream scenes.

What does ‘Stereo Nation’ mean? Any theme or story that we need to decipher?
I initially started off with the name Johnny Zee, then I teamed up with D.J Kendall to record some new material. We both had very differing styles, which when fuzed created a brand new sound. We decided the name as the 'Stereo' signified two of us, and 'Nation' signifying being one. In all it siginifies unity without colour, creed or cast.

Tell us about how this whole music thing emerge?
Well, I recorded the album 'Hit the Deck', which shot me to internation success literally overnight. It was totally un-expected.
You have been around for 15 years, that’s a massive period of time, Have you worked with other artists too?
Wow, too many to mention. In fact on my next album 'REWIND SELEKTA' I have collaborated with the like of Bally Sagoo, Dr Zeus, Swami, Apache Indian, Rouge, B-15, Hard Kaur, Cheshire Kat, Wikkaman, Desitronix, Phat Kat to name a few, phew!

We heard that your acting in a film. Tell us something about it.
Yes, its my debut acting role in the Brit Flick 'Don't Stop Dreaming'. Shot entirely in Birmingham UK, the movie co-stars Sunil Shetty, Rishi Kapoor, Richard Blackwood, Laila Rous to name a few. I'm actually right in the thick of filming and the movie should be complete by the end of April. I have also recorded 10 brand new tracks for the movie. I have been told that the film should be premiered and July this year.

Brief us about your upcoming work, ofcourse the movie, are you planning to go on a tour or something?
Apart from the movie, as I said earlier, my next album is ready and I'm hoping to release that album in June. As well as the album, I have been offered a few more acting roles which I'm in the process reading scripts etc. On top of this, I'll be doing a pre-release tour around the world starting in North America at the end of May, then into Europe, Asia thereafter. So its all go go go right now,

Any thing for the upcoming artists?
'Don't Stop Dreaming'....................

Your Single “Nachan Ge Saari Raat” is still heard and danced on. Any comments?
Its quite funny actually. When I wrote that song (in the Studio), I screwed up the sheet of paper that I had written the lyrics on and threw it in the bin. My co-producer at the time, took it out of the bin and said to give it a try, the rest is history. Just goes to show hey. I always finish off my Live Gigs with that song. Its become an anthem and I have done a special re-mix on the next album to bring it up to date. I think its one of yhose tracks that are ever green and will never lose its appeal.

Have you heard of the e-zine Underground Media Revolution (UMR)? Any comments?
I have been told on good authority that the site are banging. Unfortuantely, because of my schedule I have little time to browse these days, but next time I'm on line, I'll be sure to check them out....Promise.

For the fans:
Thanks to all my fans and media for supporting me throughout the years, the best is yet to come.........

Exclusive_Deewane's Sneak Peak into Ali's Social Circus

Deewane's Sneak Peak into Ali's Social Circus

By TALHA A. KHAN

Finally, Ali Azmat's long awaited video of Deewane, from his solo album Social Circus, has exploded onto all the major music channels of Pakistan. A great surprise of its release, hyped up all his fans and foes in generating their curiosity for the album. Rumoured to release in about weeks time, the video itself, has projected an image of what Social Circus has instored for the market. A conceptual phase of what Ali commented to be his life experiences and what he is, Social Cicus depicts the true Ali Azmat, and not what Junoon has offered him in the past.

Although when heard Deewane, during the album leakage on the Internet conspiracy, i felt as though it would just be another lovy dovy song, which Ali would sing. But after listening to it, i really got addicted to the song. And never had i ever imagined of him, releasing the video at this score. Ali's latest video, Deewane, directed by Jami, was nontheless an eye opening for the Pakistani Music uprise into the professional video market to the level of where American and Indian Music videos are evaluated.

Having Jami, on board with professional cast projectors i.e Tariq Amin, Angeline Malik, Sajid Hassan, Shamoon, the ever beautiful Ayesha Toor and the man himself, Ali Azmat. The technical team which plaus a major role in makiing this video, includes Zain Haleem as the Director of Photography and Aamir Wasim, as the Animator. Having prfoessionals on board has surely made a huge difference not only on the level of video making in the Pakistani Media, but has also shown the slightest bit of each scene of the video, a touch of perfection with a sense of building up the creativity of the characters image in this video.

Compared to other video of Ali i.e Garja Baras, this with its cinematographic work has passed through the nominal high budgeted conceptual videos. Set in the futuristic venue, the whole video focuses on the part where i feel Ali presents his song, Deewane, a fight between good and evil. Somewhere round the concept of Minority Report where Tom Cruise is framed for a murder. With Ali's acting position in the video, would really make people think about his abilities in terms of opting acting a part of his media career as well. Although the camera angles, and the heavy animation work done by Aamir, the video has perfectly blended with the storyline, the atmosphere and the shots taken for the whole theme of Deewana.

I guess its time to wait for the album to release and watch out for Ali Azmat's next video, which is 'Na ra na na' and is supposed to be directed by Saqib Malik[Khamaj]. Its making is expected to begin by the 10th of April, and would be worked through the whole month and would be released by the first week of May. Now lets see how much time does it really takes the video to drive upto the channels, and what effect does this bring out to Ali's image for his first solo career and the patience of his fans.

Exclusive_interview Imik's - 'Zamana Badley Ga!'

'Aee Kurriyay.' That's right, the album kicks off with Imik's hit second single 'Akhiyan Mila Ley.' The song's got the much too cliched 'guy-trying-to-get-the-girl' theme and gets monotonous after sometime. Another thing which i kept wondering after listening to the song was that why does he want the 'kurri' to dance for him after they lock eyes? The lyrics over power the melody of the song and what saves the song from being a disaster is its catchy beat. 'Zamana Badley Ga' reaches out to the youth of the nation with the theme of fulfilling one's dreams and changing the world altogether for the betterment of it all. An uplifting song with good riffs, and a sweet solo in the middle and a treat to listen to compared to the rest of the album. A slower number, 'Sohni Kurri' revolves around the same 'guy-girl' theme though the use of the flute in this song is commendable. 'Piya' and 'Deewana' once gain revolve around the same theme though 'Deewana' has a more mature feel to it and in this track Imik's vocal quality suddenly improves. Where 'Piya' is concerned, the song has a sweet melody to it and a catchy beat and can easily emerge as a favorite from the album. 'Dil Key Rishtey' is a 'sweeter' composition once again aimed at a chick who our Imik is searching for, though with a more mature melody. Now if you thought that the next track would be another song about a chick, then you were wrong. Just before I was about to stop listening to any more Imik, a fresh break of air came my way through 'Jab Talak Maula.' Perhaps the best composition in the entire album, the song features patriotic lyrics, comparatively heavy riffs and a thumping bassline to go with it. Kudos to Imik on this track. Though it's funny that every upcoming band comes out with a patriotic number. Care to guess why? The sound of this album still matures with 'Bhula Deh Yeh Gham' which has a technoish and electronica feel to it. It's easily the odd one out from the album where production and mixing is concerned. The song structure is very different compared to other trakcs on the album. If looking for something different on the album, then don't miss this one. 'Tere Paas' and 'Nach Len Day' have more or less the same lyrical content though the latter is a more mature track and the solo in the track makes it a good hear. What's funny (or maybe not) is that in some places the song sounds strikingly similar to 'Akhiyan Mila Ley.' 'Jisko' is an acoustic instrumental on the album with a quite mystical feel to it followed by 'Din Nakalta Hai' which has not too great a melody. The only consolation is that the lyrical conetent deviated slightly from the 'guy-girl' trend throughout the album. To wrap things up, an unplugged rendition of 'Piya' is featured in the end.

In a nutshell, Imik's 'Zamana Badley Ga' was neither pain nor too much pleasure to listen to but rocked somewhat between these two extremes. Given that he came up with 'Piya' in one night when he was only 16, Imik will definitely become a force to be reckoned with in coming years. His album comprises of good melodies throught out though I do wish he would deviate from 'pyaar influenced' lyrics and replace them with something more substantial. Imik's melodies are mature towards the end and if he continues to do good work, then ‘zamana definitely badley ga!'

Exclusive_interview ALI CHARLIE

mehlive.com [Underground Media] - : Name?.

Dino: Ali Charlie aka Dinoman

mehlive.com: Location?

Dino: Earth at the moment

mehlive.com: Date of Birth?

Dino: 1981 26thu June

mehlive.com: Profession?

Dino: Talking for money

mehlive.com: Hobbies?

Dino: Being happy in life

mehlive.com: Future plans?

Dino: Want to lead a band who will become a huge icon in Pakistan, ( need your prayers)

mehlive.com: How long you have been involved in media?

Dino: On and off for the past 6 years and 3 years in Indus Music

mehlive.com: What had inspired you in making music?

Dino: Music is food 2 my soul...bliss 2 my mind and peace 2 my heart

mehlive.com: How has your experience with Pakistani media been so far?

Dino: It has been a rollercoaster ride wit out the safety on

mehlive.com: Any plans for a video anytime in soon?

Dino: The video is coming really soon its been done by a new director for IM and its for Pari

mehlive.com: A media revolution seems to be in session in Pakistan, Mostly through music. Would you say this applies to other fields of media as well?

Dino: I say that I am glad 2 see that Pakistan is definitely hitting the international standards of music wit bands like Fuzon and staring leading the way for newer bands

mehlive.com: How far do you see Pakistani media extend itself?

Dino: Its goanna go big this year and yeah I definitely see us going far

mehlive.com: How importance a role does play in terms of national outlook? Do you see our media meeting all criteria?

Dino: Well I guess u can't make yr self viable towards the media the media should be excepting u of yr ways and yr talent and how u project it

mehlive.com: What flaws do you see in Pakistani media today?

Dino: The small minded hypocrite types

mehlive.com: What about your music education?

Dino: Well I am self taught

mehlive.com: Tell us about your music equipments?

Dino: The equipment I have sides my voice is a beat up old ovation acoustic

mehlive.com: What we can expect from "Dino" in the future? Have you chalked out an entire plan? If so please to share it with us.

Dino: Well I am working on 2 videos 1 for Pari which is going to be wit u soon and the other I am keeping as surprise the album almost finished so u get ready for that 2 and plus IM planning 2 do a few gigs soon 2

mehlive.com: Source of inspiration?

Dino: I always grew listening 2 everything from Motown 2 jazz 2 nb 2 soul 2 classical 2 ghazal everything and that's the way my albums going to be like u will get a taste of everything

mehlive.com: Other Occupations?

Dino: Music an talking yep that's all I do

mehlive.com: Type of music you like?

Dino: Music I like is anything wit a feel anything that has a meaning

mehlive.com: Type of music you hate?

Dino: The kind that was written for no reason and no feel

mehlive.com: How do you guys feel when you are playing live?

Dino: The live feeling I get when playing is been the same eth time I 1st went on stage its like home I belong there I feel at peace wit who I am what I do and there no boundaries its me and my music

mehlive.com: What inspires you when composing a song?

Dino: Its like probably its taken me so long 2 make the album coz each song I have written when I was either in the mood 2 write on or it just came 2 me

mehlive.com: What comes deeper from your soul, Music or Lyrics?

Dino: Music and lyrics can't be compared cause both are equally important and both come from the depth of yours soul

mehlive.com: How would you like to remembered?

Dino: And I would like 2 remember as some 1 who was loved and loved wit his all

mehlive.com: Favorite musicians?

Dino: I have 2 say 4 Quincy Jones ...Pharrel Williams nerd ....john Mayer .....and locally Mekaal Hassan and I love the vital signs

mehlive.com: Favorite songs?

Dino: English lets stay together by al green and Urdu have 2 be to many 2 fit in

mehlive.com: What do you think about Jumpy?

Dino: I think jumpy is a site 2 watch out for there always doing great and new things check'em out there fit

mehlive.com: Final comments?

Dino: I know I have taken a while 2 finish my so kall3d album but wait for it I hope yr not bored when hearing it

Exclusive_interview FAAKHIR MANTRA

The magical spell of FAAKHIR MANTRA

By SAAD IDREES

Enchanting melodies??!

This is not your regular pop-ish Faakhir album since in this album, Faakhir has moved ahead from the same old pop music instruments and has amalgamated many different musical instruments like the Sitaar, flute, various percussions etc. and has also used quite diverse vocal effects for the backing vocals as well.

In a normal musical situation, this would be a compliment. In this case however, it’s really really not.

The collection of “enchanting melodies” starts off with the song “Tauba Hai”. Now I like the percussions in this song and the way they change from somewhat tribal to electronica and the production in this song is quite fit too. But the lyrics, as expected, suck like hell (I had no other expression to use). And further on into the song, due to the destructive drought in the lyrics and the repetition of the same music pattern, it gets extremely monotonous.

Compared to the rest of the album, as you will see, “Mahi Ve” is like a breath of fresh air. This song has really grown on me. The groovy chorus and the beat that is running with it are quite cool. Just one flaw: what is it with the “Yodlay hi hoo” part?!! Why Faakhir? Why?!

Ok. “Kaash” is a song which left me totally confused. I realized at the end of the song that I was unconsciously banging my head against the stereo. I stopped and came to the conclusion that either the first verse of the song doesn’t fit anywhere, or the rest of the song doesn’t fit in anywhere. :S I’m still reeling with the effect of that song.

“Din mein teri yaad” was pure torture. It had a “mafia” start. There was no connection between different parts of the song. There was everything in this track from opera singers to Spanish singers with just one thing missing: sense. Really can’t go without that man! “Jiya na jaaye” is typically Indian in its feel and music. The use of the Sitaar in this song is interesting but it does not at all settle down with Faakhir’s voice. And the monotony persists.

“Kurri”.
The bass line : Dancing to the groove of Shakira’s Whenever wherever.
Lyrics : Suck.
Rap : ?!!
Query : Why would people be oh-so-happy about their break-ups?

“Chal utth chaliyay”. A peaceful soothing “Anarkali” type start. Sitaar. Alaap. Opera?!! The music hints a “Dil na lagay” extended version. Lyrically it is a deviation from the formulaic boy-girl love-hate cycle to the formulaic using-patriotism-as-an-ATM-card cycle. Vocally the song sucks. Yes, more than usual. The effect that Faakhir bhaiyya is trying to produce in the chorus is clearly… failing.

By the time I had gotten so far into the album every single time that I heard it, I was sick to the core. “lag lag” was another song which was different just for the heck of being different.

Jerking out of my fitful stupor during the song “Preetan” made me wonder if I had purchased a Waris Baig album, or maybe some Pakistani Movie’s soundtrack by mistake (Heaven Forbid).

One word to describe the title track: hilarious!! As far as the lyrics are concerned, Faakhir seems to be trying (pay attention to the word in bold) his hand on some life philosophy now. The song structure is hilarious! It left me rolling on the floor with tears streaming down my face unable to stop my laughter. The feel does not coincide with the lyrics in more than just one place. “Kaddi haan kehndi” and “yeh dil ab tera ho gya” do not make for an impressive end. The former being written in a blissful spell of extreme self-love and the latter just being written.

Overall, this album was painful to listen to. You have to hand it to them that, technically speaking, I think that a lot of effort was put into the production. But the songs seem to be made in sections and jumbled together without any connection whatsoever. And even despite all the jumping around in songs, more than one becomes too monotonous to handle. Urgent help with the lyrics required.

You can go buy the album if you are:

1 ) A Faakhir fanatic;
2 ) A mad Indian music lover
3 ) Deaf.

My last sentence on the album: Different just for the heck of it.

Exclusive_interview Bombay Rockers

Bombay Rockers‘Badshahs’ of the UK Urban music scene...

By MEHREEN KHAN

Bombay Rockers, the current ‘Badshahs’ of the UK Urban music scene, have made it a point to party everyone with their upbeat hip pop bhangra music around the world. With likes of Jay Sean and Rishi Rich on the block, Bombay Rockers, proved that Hey, we’re here to Rock with Bhangra ;)

“When the music starts to play”, a convincing title for many enthusiastic dancers and clubbers, does this album has what it takes to impress the multicultural music scene?
The title of the album is “Introducing …” The title you’re referring to is the title track for the forthcoming album with the Danish dance act MUSIKK. Bombay Rockers have written and produced the song for the album. We feel that “Introducing …” is an album with different genres and variation. We have a lot of up-tempo songs and we think that clubbers could enjoy I very much. We have had a lot success in Asia and the middle-east, and other multicultural musicians have complemented our music. So far it seems as if we got what it takes ?

Considering the great feat you have achieved by being signed on by Kontor Records, what do you think it takes to be accepted by the European market considering the Punjabi lyrics?
We don’t feel that the European market has to accept the Punjabi lyrics. We’re doing the mix between English and Punjabi so everyone can relate to it. The Europeans will then hopefully see the Punjabi lyrics as a refreshing new sound. That’s the key to the success that BOMBAY ROCKERS has had so far.

The clubbing scene in many places is mostly made up by the younger generation, so it’s mostly good beats. But do you plan to come out with something, which appeals to the masses and not just particular segments?
In our own opinion we do appeal to the masses. On our album we’ve tried to variate our sound as much as possible while still holding on to the pop flavour. We have straight pop/R&B and a bit of rock, hip hop, dancehall and last but not least Banghra.

What do you think your music manages to convey? Any hidden messages we’re supposed to decipher?
Not really. The lyrics are about love and partying. We try not to get to deep and keep it mostly up-tempo. BOMBAY ROCKERS is all about enjoying yourself and having fun. Living in the moment.

Navtej you’ve gone for hip-hop, bhangra, funk and break-dance, how did you manage to create this impressive fusion, keeping in mind the multicultural listeners?
I have always been a fan of Indian music, so I basically tried to pass on the music the way I hear it. Indian music is very easy to mix with other styles as hip hop or pop, because it is so versatile. So we tried to keep the lyrics simple and easy to sing. After all music is something everybody can relate to.

Till what extent do you think have gone to be what you are at the moment? What do you think it takes to be a successful artist who has broken into the world market?
Well I don’t feel that I have changed as a person or done anything I normally wouldn’t have done. I work hard to achieve my dreams, but would never do anything that wasn’t true to me or my values. I don’t think there’s a recipe for success. But I believe that these factors play a major part: First of all hard work always pays of. Secondly, you have to believe in what ever you do otherwise no one else will. And the most important factor: Luck! It’s all about being at the right place at the right time.

What do you think separates you from the rest of the Danish artists like Outlandish and Safri Duo?
We don’t feel that we have anything in common with Safri Duo other than being from Denmark. Our music is pop/R&B and theirs is dance/pop. OUTLANDISH also have a multi-cultural mixture but they are rappers and therefore much more hip hop than us. We’re straight up pop and proud of it!!!

How did the formation of this awesome duo start? What did you have in mind when you first started? Was it to target the clubbing scene or just produce good music for self-satisfaction?
We were inspired by Punjabi MC. The first track we did was a straight up Indian Banghra track called ARI ARI. The next track SEXY MAMA Thomas laid down some English vocals and we mixed it up with the Indian. It happened naturally and wasn’t planned on; we just did what we thought sounded good. And then overnight Thomas went from being a Producer/songwriter to also being a singer.

What’s it like for both of you to work together, knowing that you come from two extremely different cultures? How has the blending been so far? Any rows or arguments over the music you want to produce?
We have a great working relationship. No arguments and so far we have totally agreed on the musical direction. Being from different cultures is what makes us work so well together cause
we each take the best from our own cultural background and put it together. The result then becomes that much stronger.

Do you plan to pursue any other interests apart from producing booty shaking music? Movies, Modelling?
Don’t think we’re pretty or tall enough to do any modelling ? but we hope to make music for a Bollywood movie at some point.

How do you find the heavy influx of all the media attention after “Rock the party” has shaken the market? Is it something desirable?
So far we haven’t had any negative experiences. People pass us on the street and congratulate us on our success and ask for autographs. The vibe is always positive so up until now it’s been very desirable ?

Tell us about your upcoming projects? Are you going to experiment and start on a different genre?
We haven’t really started up any new tracks. Right now we’re doing live shows in Denmark and preparing for the release of the album in Europe and other continents of the world. But who knows what we’ll come up with the next time. We’re going to stick with the mix between English and Punjabi. But the musical direction could easily take a turn.

U.K, South Africa, France, Italy, U.A.E, Egypt and many other countries have experienced this new blend of music, what has been your response to this great success?
Overwhelming ? What we have accomplished so far we wouldn’t even have dared to dream about a year ago. We’re grateful for everything that has happened so far and we just take it one day at a time. We try not to let it go to our heads.

The world music scene is getting saturated with Asian beats and lyrics combined with R&B and other genres, what difference do you want to make?
Bombay Rockers is not revolutionary but the way we combine the different cultures musically and the way Naf sings Punjabi and Hindi in a modern R&B kind of way hasn’t been done before. It’s a new style and that’s probably why we have received such great response. We have our own little place in a world of many musical genres and directions

What do you think it takes to compete in this competitive market, especially with great successes like Jay Sean, Punjabi MC, Rishi Rich, etc?
The trick is not to compete with other acts but look inside yourself and come up with the music you feel is right. You can’t control how other people will feel about your music but if you’re not completely satisfied yourself chances are that no one else will be either. Then you have to change it. You will never reach the top if you copy other acts. Be a leader – not a follower.

You have been touring a lot, how do you think it helps you to understand your fans and what they expect from you?
Touring is great. It’s great to get out and experience how people react. It’s nice to talk to the fans and get their opinion on which tracks the like the most. Regarding expectations we always give it 100 percent. If the crowd is 300 or 2000 it makes no difference and you should be able to expect that from any band.

What do you do when you’re not practising or performing?
I’m working (Thomas Sardorf) as a producer/songwriter for other acts with my co-producer Janus Bosen. Currently we’re working with a Hip Hop duo called Overseas and a Soul singer Matias. Basically all my time is spent on music. In my free time I enjoy playing football and going out to party

Does your rich cultural background help you to produce this foot tapping music?
Of course the cultural background helps but when it all comes down to it you either have musical talent or you don’t. Off course you can improve your skills as you go along but if there isn’t anything to start out from you won’t succeed. We have a talent for making music people like to dance to. Personally both my Father and Grandfather are musicians (Thomas) so I think I got it mostly from them.

What do you think you need to work on? Any areas, which require more concentration?
Basically there is always room for improvement in all areas. You should always try to push your talent further.

What message would you give to young musicians who out there want to create a unique combination?
Just keep doing what you do. Be open and listen to other people. If what they say makes sense try to incorporate it or else just move on. It’s ok to be inspired by others... you can’t avoid it. But don’t copy. Try to find your own style if what you come up with is a unique combination only time will tell

What was your first performance like? Tummy filled with butterflies or did it come naturally? What do aim to give your fans when performing?
Our first performance came really fast. We had barely created two tracks when a National Festival in Denmark called Images of Asia took place. They booked us for several shows so we quickly had to produce some more tracks. It was a funny feeling suddenly being up on stage but we always support each other and therefore it’s always a bit easier. In last year we’ve done a lot of shows and as time passes you get in to a routine. But not in a bad way. You learn what to do and not to do and we always have a couple of butterflies before going on stage, it wouldn’t feel right without them. But we could never fall into a specific routine or get tired of performing. The greatest feeling is when the crowd stands there singing the melodies and lyrics you created. It’s a unique feeling ? As we mentioned earlier we always give it 100 percent. We try to not only sing but entertain as much as possible. We have dancers in our show and Naf also does various dance routines while Thomas hype and gets the crowd going.

Exclusive_interview Saraab

eXclusive interview with The Band Saraab....

By MUNEEZA KHAN

Saraab, notoriously famous in the year 2000, when they first released their debut album Yeh Faaslay, which was digested by many, and soon found themselves amongst the best bands in the mainstream. Provided their music for a tele-film ‘Titliyan’, with immense success, Saraab was nowhere to be found. Now after 5 years they return… with a brand new look, a brand new music, and whole new Saraab….

Give us an introduction about yourselves?
We embarked on our musical career in our college days and by the grace of Almighty God, we successfully lunched our first album “Yeh Faselay” In 2000 and got a tremendous and warm welcome from our fans.

How long have you been involved in the Pakistani Music scene? How did you enter the field of Music?
We have been involved in the field of music for more than 5 years and it was our deep interest that made us make this field as our career

Saraab, that is a very different type of a name, who and how did you come up with it and what does it mean?
The meaning of Saraab is an illusion or false believe. The name was recommend by a well known celebrity of Pakistani Music Media.

Describe your role in the band respectively?
Nadeem: I have been singing in our band and some times, written lyrics for our songs.
Adnan: I help in producing and composing music.

Have you had any musical training? What do you think, should a musician have the basic knowledge of music, is it important?
We did not attain any training in any institute but due to our interest in music since childhood we kept ourselves involved in education of music through different media like reading articles of music and especially books reading related to musical education.

Have you ever performed live on stage? Which has been your most rememorable concert of all times? What are the feelings that you go through before a show and after it?
Yes we have been doing live music and have been performing live stage and I cannot forget a concert that was in Hyderabad City in 2002.

How do you, the music that you make is any different from what other bands and solo artists are creating now a days? Whats the main difference? How would you define the music that you create?
We consider ourselves as the first band who introduce ‘Indi pop’ style in Pakistan by merge in film style of music.

How many albums have you released up till now? How do you feel, did the audience/ listeners react with your previous album? Was it satisfactory?
We have lunched an album in 2000 and by the Grace of God, we are proud to say that we have a different kind of Fan following today. It was due to our album that gave us recognition in music industry.

Are you currently working on any new projects? If so tell us about them.
Yes, we have finalized our new album that is soon to be lunched in a very short span of time.

How many videos have you released up till now? What do you feel takes a video complete and defines the song? How does a strong video help the song to be betterly understood?
Till now we have given 5 videos. And have worked with different directors and media teams but specially the video of Jina Mera and title Song of Titiliya was very acclaim.

What are the requirements, in your point of view, to make a band or solo artist complete and successful?
It is just the hard work that makes any thing different from the rest of the world. But as you know it is the modern age, we should be equipped with latest technology in musical world.

What can we expect from ‘Saraab’ in the future, where and how do you see yourself in the next 3 years?
We are very confident and believe that our hard work and deep interest will lead us to the better place in the musical world.

How has being in this unpredictable field of music changed or reshaped/shaped your life?
Although this is a full time job to do, but we are very happy that we are also involved and engaged in our personal lives as we are involved in our professional career.

Tell us about your own likes and dislikes when it comes to music? Which Pakistani musician[s] do you listen to?
Yes there are very few musicians whom we praise and appreciate and dream to work with them. But majority of people in this field are not full equipped with the basic know-how.

Final words for fans?
We are very thankful to our fans and we cannot express our gratitude in words for them, we just say LOVE U ALL.

Exclusive_interview Surkh

An Interview with Surkh, One of the best Upcoming Bands...

By ALI ASGHAR TAHA

As we know that currently Lahore is the main place of all these rockers being produced, amongst them [and my personal fav.] Surkh is one of the best upcoming underground bands, that is being brought forth. This energetic, highly Internet downloaded band, shares few words with UMR, about their future projects….

How did Surkh come about and who are the band members?
Mansoor: (Vocals)
I have been friends with Zulfi of EP since university times. He inspired me to compose back in 2000 and appreciated whatever I came up with. Shoaib had a few advanced guitar lessons from him and Raheel his drums. Raheel and Shoaib had composed and recorded a song but they weren’t really satisfied with the output. There Zulfi became a binding force and that’s how we guys met and started working on Lerzish. We jumped on a new project instead of continuing with the previous one because we wanted it to be a good mix of each of our styles and influences.

Besides music, I am currently doing MS in computer sciences from FAST and also working in an IT organization as a process engineer.

Shoaib: (Guitars)
While studying in UET Lahore I was looking for some people to get on the track and been into regular attender of underground Gigs n in the meanwhile I came to know zulfi n I must say he was the guy who really gave me thought about forming a band and in the mean time, one of my old buddy Raheel who started learning drums from Zulfi and it was Zulfi because of who we came across with Mansoor and then we formed as Surkh and stared working on Lerzish with Zulfi’s help.

Beside music, I am currently working as Management trainee officer in a Bank.

Raheel: (drums)
Back in the time of UET I was just into listening of hard rock stuff but it was Shoaib who stuffed my brain with the thought abt learning drums as he was looking for a drummer for jamming with. After buying the drum kit I started taking lectures from Zulfi and after having few lecture and lots of practice I was able to jam with guitar and bass.

Who came up with the name ‘Surkh’ since it translates simply as ‘Black?’
Once we were taking a break during the recordings of our debut single "Lerzish" when Mansoor came up with this name, and it just struck all of us. At first it sounded weird as a band name but when we explored the idea associated with it, we unanimously agreed there and then. Surkh (Red) is just an adjective, but the strength it delivers is marvelous. Surkh, we believe is the colour of love, roses and hearts; rebellion, revolution, extreme, blood and danger. Even without any subject, “Surkh” alone is so alarming and symbolizes such diverse paradigms, that we couldn’t resist it.

The song ‘Lerzish’ seems to be telling a story. What is going on in the song and what is it about?
The song, as the lyrics speak, is about agony of separation. The words deliver the "extreme" pain which are neither deceiving nor directing, but represent pure feelings. The feelings for a lost loved one.

The debut track ‘Lerzish’ consisted of soulful lyrics and an amazing composition. Who helped with the technicalities of the song and are you guys happy with the way it has been received?
Thanks a lot for praising both the vital aspects of our song. We are really very happy with the way it has been received. Mostly people have been very appreciative and we have not been able to find a single person yet, who disliked Lerzish, if not liked it?. So we think it reflects that the audience has accepted our music.

Coming to the second part of the question, hats off to Zulfi for helping us with the technicalities, maturing the arrangement and his solid guidance at each phase of recording and mixing.

While working on songs, are the lyrics penned down first or is the composition laid down first?
As already said by million others, there is no formula. In case of Lerzish, both lyrics and melody came simultaneously. But for other songs that we are working on, mostly it's the melody first and then the lyrics.

What are your musical influences; bands or artists that made you guys say ‘Yes, this is what we want to do?’
We have a diverse set of musical influences. But they do not represent exactly what we want to portray. You may find flavor of a few in our upcoming compositions, but we don't want to get restricted to any particular genre of music and tagged as a rock or a pop or with any such title for that matter. Our music is not intended just for foot tappers or the head bangers. We want to remain focused on doing lyrically meaningful and constructive music. Time is the best judge about how our music evolves and how thought-provoking we can make it.

Mansoor: Among vocalists, I love listening to Bono of U2, Chris Martin of Cold Play Ronnan Keating, Don Mclean, Alanis Morissette and Celine Dion. And musically my inspirations are Pink Floyd, Porcupine Tree, Sting, Vital Signs (Hum Tum) and A.R.Rehman.

Shoaib: Well been into listening for so long, stared with Matallica, Gunzzz and Megadeth, Pearl Jam then biggest inspiration for me been n still Jim Morrison from The doors and made me serious about playing guitar and about music and then Alice in Chains, Mad Season, Nirvana, Black Sabbath, Led Zepplin, Alanis Morissette and in instrumentals love to listen Steve Vai and Eric Jhonson and some blues stuff

Raheel: I love Matallica, Lars (drummer) been my first inspiration the way he hits the snare its amazing. I also like Tool, Megadeth, Black Sabbath, love Mad season

Tell us about the equipment you guys use, the studio setup and how long have you guys been involved in the music scene?
Shoaib: Well I’ve two Electric guitars one is “Ibenezz Jax 10 and other one is Fernandes
and I’ve got V-Amp 2 processor and our band has a small Garage sound system which we use in the basement for the jam.

Mansoor: I use a basic Yamaha keyboard for vocal practice and basic compositions at home. And at our jam place what can say but a MIC is a vocalist’s best friend ?

Raheel: I’ve just sold my old Proking Drum set and hope to buy a better within next month looking for a best one

How supportive has the media been regarding the debut release on matters such as promotion, coverage etc?
So far, we have launched our song only on web media through our official website “surkh.com”. We do have a contact page but unfortunately, we have not been able to set up forums and make it interactive yet, so we couldn’t get a bulk of feedback. However we have received good amount of offers from leading music websites for interviews and exclusives. And we are thankful to them.

What’s cooking in the studio for Surkh fans out there. Any new audio or video releases we can expect? Any live performances the audience can expect?
Well a good news for all the people who liked Lerzish the song’s video is shot and now its in Editing process and hopefully it will be on Air very soon and we are going in to studios for recording some more tracks and hopefully after releasing our debut we’ll be looking forward for some live performances for our fans

Thank you for taking out time for UMR. We wish you the best of luck with all your future ventures.

Exclusive_interview Jal the band

Har Jagga Hai Jal….’

By AQIDA KALEEM, Associate Editor

People have been desperately waiting for Jal's album to come out ever since the instant hit 'Aadat' was released on the Internet in early 2003. Mid of 2004, news of the band's breakup really put one into doubts whether there WAS an album to wait for. But Atif Aslam and Goher (former line-up of JAL) decided to pursue their music career, despite the breakup, and went their own ways. After the release of Atif Aslam's album Jalpari, the wait for Goher's version to come out was even greater than before. And... FINALLY! Out came 'Aadat'; an album by a nameless band (the name JAL cannot be used as the case is still pending in the court of law) consisting of three members, Goher Mumtaz (composer, songwriter, lead guitarist and vocalist), Farhan Saeed Butt (lead vocalist) and Shazi (bass guitarist).

The album kicks off with 'Rangon Main', the song that first introduced Farhan as Jal's vocalist. And Farhan does not fail to impress one at all. Awesome music to compliment the upbeat melody.

The next track, 'Woh Lamhey', has been airing quite frequently on local music channels lately. The song is a medium-beat song, where the vocals keep switching from Farhan's to Goher's and then Farhan again. But the voices seem to gel together perfectly and add a significant touch to the song.

The following two tracks, Ik Din Aye Ga (vocals by Farhan) and Panchi (vocals by Farhan and Goher), are just completely mesmerizing; the lyrics, the compositions, the music, the vocals... it's all worth appreciating! 'Ik Din Aye Ga' is about having faith in one's self when the world around you, everything you have ever known, is falling apart. 'Panchi' is about pursuing one’s ambitions, struggling to achieve one's goals, going against all odds.

Half way through the album, we have 'Bikhra Hoon Main', a whole new version of the 'Aadat' we have been listening to for so long. The song is so different from the original one that I am not sure whether it really passes off as a 'version' of Aadat. Completely different lyrics and way different music... it IS in fact a whole new song. Thumbs up to Goher Mumtaz who created an amazing composition out of an already existing song. Since most people associated the song 'Aadat' with Atif Aslam (since he was the vocalist when the song was first released), 'Bikhra Hoon Main' was written to signify Farhan's existence. It was written to express Goher's feelings in words and to confirm Farhan as the vocalist... thus, promising the existence of the new line-up of JAL!
'Dil Haray' and 'Aadat', sung by Goher and Farhan respectively, have been available on the internet months before the release of the album. Thus, many Jal fans had already gotten over their craze. The songs have a stale feel to them by now. But nevertheless, they are worth listening to. Goher's vocals in Dil Haray are worth appreciating. Listening to the earlier tracks of the album, I was heading to the conclusion that maybe Farhan cannot pull off higher pitches that well, but Aadat proves me wrong. He can go onto higher pitches and sound perfect. But yet, the vocals in Aadat sound a bit flat at times.

Next, we have 'Teri Yaad', a slow romantic track. Flutes by Ahsan (Pappu) are the main attraction of the song. Farhan's vocals are par excellence.

'Manchala' is one of the few fast tracks on the album. Since I'm running out of synonyms for great, awesome, outstanding... I think I'll just let you find your word for it.

‘Har Jagga Hai Jal’… a perfect end to a perfect album! I would have said it’s very pompous of the band to include this particular song in their ‘debut’ album, but then… it IS very pertinent.

Other than these ten songs, the album contains two instrumental tracks, which fail to gain one’s attention. Many fans would have preferred a couple of unplugged versions of the songs as album-fillers, rather than instrumentals.

Jal, as a band, have in fact achieved a transcendent significance with their debut album ‘Aadat’. The band has proved its worth. The much-criticized vocals of Farhan Saeed are praiseworthy. Goher’s lyrics and compositions express their originality with songs like ‘Bikhra Hoon Main’. The applaud able efforts of the musicians, Shazi, Goher, Salman Albert, Waqar A. Khan, Mekaal Hasan, Farhad Hamayun, Ahsan (Pappu) and most importantly Xulfi, give life to the remarkable compositions.

In my opinion, after Vital Signs, Jal is the only pure pop band that has fulfilled the needs of pop-lovers. ‘Aadat’ is a classic indeed!

exclusive_interview

Exclusive_interview Corduroy

The Morning After All Rock, No Roll Review......

By SAM, Contributional Writer

Somewhere in 2000, in the culturally barren wasteland known as Islamabad a new band Corduroy, the brainchild of aspiring songwriter/vocalist Mobashir Noor and guitarist Sarmad Faraz was formed. Corduroy combined Moby’s influences including Pearl Jam and REM with Sarmad’s fiery fretwork based on the style of Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai and Joe Satriani. From the early days the band was insistent on writing original material. One remembers an early effort released locally through Audiocity. The only praise that could be given to that work is that at least the band had put in some effort in writing and recording their own songs.

Now 3 years later the band comes up with their ‘debut’ album ‘The Morning After’ although anyone following their recording career will realize that this is the probably the third album they’ve purchased (a second effort consisted of badly recorded versions of songs from ‘The Morning After’). This time they are no major complaints from the recording quality. The album kicks off with the upbeat ‘Your Song’ a two-chord stomp in the vein of Ten-era Pearl Jam. The song flows smoothly until the break after the chorus. It’s here that Sarmad adds a bluesy guitar part, which could have done the song, wonders, but is strangely out of time and out of scale. This part sticks out like a sore thumb in what is otherwise a good opener to the album. Up next is the album’s highlight and debut single ‘Leeway’ which is all set to hit the airwaves soon with a video directed by EP’s Xulfi. Great song and great lyrics. No complaints here except the sequenced drums seem to be too muffled and in the background. A comparison of the live performance of this song with the recorded version would have me believe the album version was recorded on dope! Somehow, the energy of Corduroy’s live performances doesn’t translate that well onto record.

‘Ground Zero’ keeps up the adrenalin of the record. Another song which would make Pearl Jam proud. Moby’s Vedder imitation is spot-on and Sarmad’s guitar fireworks
Shine through. The next two numbers put a dampener on things though. The band might insist that they hate nu-metal but ‘Wide Awake’ sounds like a song one of them nu-metal bands would write. ‘You’re Everywhere’ attempts to lighten things up but fails.

The next good song after ‘Ground Zero’ comes on the 8th track ‘Blue Chip’. A mercurial rocker, this song shines equally well on record as it does when the band plays it live. However like ‘Your Song’ the band makes another blunder. Moby’s scatting along with Sarmad’s guitar part in the last minute is again not exactly in key. ‘[end]’ is next and is my personal favorite from the album. A good departure from the rest of the album, the song has a instantly likeable melody and great words “I’m the picture that’s never taken, the house with the lonely view”. Profound indeed. The solo could have been improved upon as Sarmad is found lacking where more feel and subtlety is required. ‘Dystemper’ sounds like something I’ve heard before complete with irritating scale change. The album’s last track ‘Aas’ is also its solitary Urdu number. If you thought Faraz Anwar sounded bad trying Scott Stamp then Moby doesn’t do much better singing like Eddie Vedder in Urdu. Not required methinks.

Now since I’m done picking out the album’s faults, a list of the album’s attributes would be in order. Let’s face it: I’m scared of Moby; he’s big, he looks mean and I can see him breaking my neck in the same swift motion with which he breaks a mic stand. If I don’t come up with something positive about the album my first review could be my last. First of all, great lyrics by Moby that more than stand up to the test. NFP sums it up best by calling it a criss-cross between Bowie’s quirky eccentricity and Vedder’s irreverent, satirical pessimism. A lot of the songs more than conjure up images of Ziggy Stardust-era Bowie and early Pearl Jam wordplay in all their glory. As far as the band performance is concerned, Moby’s vocals have improved immensely and bass playing by Ahmed is solid throughout. Sound quality and overall mixing is very impressive considering the limited recording equipment I’ve heard the band has. Packaging is next. Good inlay and interesting credits: issues with LSD and Hells’s Angels! Isn’t this a rock’n’roll band? And where’s Osama Bin Laden? His organization Al-Qaeda and best buddy Dubya get mentions but the Sheikh himself is absent. Overall a good effort by this band that should serve as a catalyst for other Pakistani underground bands to come up with something of their own. Nuff said!

exclusive_new Fresh 10….

By AQIDA KALEEM and ZAYNAB HASAN

10. Mizraab - Dil Dil Pakistan

Zaynab: Now here’s a song that caused quite a lot of controversy. For most it’s a song you either love or hate at first listen. Vital Signs fans expressed extreme dislike and were enraged that the classic, patriotic ‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ was butchered by Faraz Anwar’s vocals. Despite the commendable guitar efforts on this track, the clever revamped metal version fails to match up to the original. The video isn’t anything exceptional unless you find it endearing to watch Faraz Anwar tuck his hair behind his ears every few seconds!

9. Mishi Khan - Aaja O Raja

Aqida: Mishi Khan has released yet another (flop) single. If you thought 'Mere Mahiya' was horrendous (which every sane person would think) and that nothing could be worse than that, 'Aaja O Raja' will prove you wrong. This is one video where I failed to find anything worth appreciating. Mishi's husky vocals were enough to scare me away, but unfortunately, since my colleague Zaynab backed out, I had to go through the complete agony to write this review.
The video, directed by Baba Sehgal, consists of various shots of Mishi Khan and the model, Ahmed Butt goofing around in Dubai. With Mishi in the foreground doing her highly hysterical dance moves, even Dubai does not seem too attractive. Personally, I would rate the song a 1.5/10. Half a mark for all the bright colors in the video, and one mark that i award out of pity to every such singer who makes a fool of him/herself on television.

8. Haroon – Goriye

Aqida: 'Goriye' is a typical average pop song, like most of Haroon's other works. The video, directed by Ali Kamran, is yet another one among the latest video releases with no story line. Haroon has four different get-ups (and I'm sorry to say he doesn't look too ravishing in either one of them. People can hardly stand ONE Haroon and here they have FOUR of him... Oh well!). Might I suggest less break-dancing on Haroon's part, and please please, I beg u, don't ruin Michael Jackson's moonwalk. Stick to that nerdy get-up as a keyboardist. That suits you perfectly!!
Other than Haroon himself, there are shots of the 'Channo' model (I'm sorry I'm not too good with names) dancing around with a guitar in hand. One thing worth appreciating about the video is the production. Good graphics, good camera angles, good colour scheme.... and they make the 'Channo' girl look good too!

7. Messiah - Death of the Reaper

Aqida: Messiah brings out it's debut video, 'Death of the Reaper', directed by WTF?. WTF? consists of three team members; Faisal Shah (the model), Raza Gorar and Asif Shaikh. Death of the Reaper is a pure metal English song. "An ENGLISH song? Done by desis?? Bahhh!!" That's the first thought that comes to one's mind. But I assure you, this song is nothing like... umm... would it be too harsh if i said... like the wannabe Hash? If you can bear the loud music and the excessive screaming, this IS the song for you. (I did NOT mean this sarcastically... really!!).
The video is a typical band video we get these days... the band performing in a small room (actually Faisal Shah's garage) and EXCESSIVE head-banging. But it was a great effort on Wtf?'s part, considering the fact that it was their first video. The video does in fact compliment the song. There are two versions of it running on various channels. One is more like a raw footage, while the other is complete with color toning and other effects. Overall, it's a 'thumbs up'!

6. Salman Ahmed and Shobha Mudghal - Ghoom Tana

Zaynab: Ghoom Tana is a musical short film about two neighboring nations and their journey towards self-discovery and peace. Director Saqib Malik has done an excellent job to capture the rich and colorful scenes in both Pakistan and India. Salman Ahmed and Nandita Das play the two main characters whose families were dislocated during partition and play their parts well. To sum up, the video is up there with some of this year’s best videos – good storyline and brilliant direction. But coming onto the song, and we’re onto a whole a different story. Hmm, let’s see, how to put this? To be mild... it sounds absolutely horrific. Yes, I mean it. Appalling, ghastly, utterly dreadful. A serious disappointment. What was one of the best tracks of the latest Junoon album, ‘Deewar’ instantly transformed into the most hideous monster of a song. The moment Salman opens his mouth to ‘sing’, I warn you – run for your life if you wish to remain sane! If you thought his contribution on the album was bad, I pity you. I really do. If it at all saves him from further disgrace, Shobha Mudgal doesn’t help him much either. They’re loud, they’re be-suray, and they’re totally making fools of themselves! Strongly recommended advice: Play on mute.

5. Jal - Dil Harey

Zaynab: Dil Harey Pukaray is the first release from the new Jal line-up after all the hullabaloo that was created when lead vocalist Atif left/was kicked out of the band. The acoustic studio version of the song had been made available on the net months before and perhaps to some people’s disappointment, it hasn’t been changed. The song nonetheless, features deep, soothing vocals and some lovely guitar strumming by Goher Mumtaz, who has also written and composed the song (you listening Atif?) Directed by Shahid Iqbal, the video is left simple focusing on the band resting on stools, guitars in hand in front of what seems like an auditorium stage. Good lighting and slick camera-work allowing the viewers to catch a glimpse of the guys at every angle – near, far, left, right, even at their tapping feet! And loaded with band shots - be it from the side of Farhan’s awkward grin, to the reflection in Shazi’s shades or even for girls who just care to drool at the close-ups of Goher’s mouth – it’s all in there! Worth a listen if not a watch ;)

4. Atif Aslam - Mahi Ve

Aqida: L-O-L!!!!! ... Sorry if that was too rude, but seriously, that IS my reaction every time I see the video. It's really hard to concentrate on the song when Atif is doing that puppet 'borrowed-arms' dance of his. MAN! IT IS HILARIOUS!!
Leaving out the dancing part (for Atif's benefit), the video is alright. Atif wandering about in Dubai with a female model is not exactly my sense of a great video. Getting a shot of Burj-al-Arab does not make a video a hit. It's something our directors and singers should have realized by now.

3. Strings - Bolo Bolo

Aqida: Most people were already quite familiar with the track Bolo Na, featuring the Indian singer, Hari Haran - released in the latest album of the band, 'Dhaani'. The video consists of shots of Faisal, Bilal and Hari Haran hanging out together. The video, directed by Sohail Javed, is nothing extra-ordinary, but it just works alright. The guys are as usual dressed really funkily... and my O my, do they look hot!! ;)

2. Ahmed J Aap Ki Yaad

Zaynab: Looking to give yourself a shock? Well you’re at the right place. AJ will sure get you backing away from your TV screen in fright with his newest video Aap Ki Yaad! With an overload of blusher and lip-gloss, hair knotted in braids and caramel boots – even your ‘ammi’ will be confused as to which is the girl in the video! Leaving that aside, Sohail Javed’s direction is of the usual high standard; crisp picture with well-lit locations. The song itself is a melodious slow number of Parastish, and definitely a good choice to release. AJ puts his vocal talent on good display to accompany the light music. It’ll get you swaying in no time!

1. Jal - Woh Lamhey

Aqida: The second of Jal's latest releases, Woh Lamhay, was a three-day shoot at the ruins of some Hindu temple, 15 km from Lahore. The video, directed by Xulfi, was average. After witnessing Xulfi's directing skills in E.P's Aghosh, one has higher expectations from him. In the video, the band is seen performing (and wandering) within the ruins. Goher looks great, Farhan needs to work on his expressions... really, and Shazi looks quite alright. Better direction of photography could have made the video go up a notch.

exclusive_interview

Exclusive Interview JIGGA

JIGGA

DOWNLOAD JIGGA FEZ's EXCLUSIVE SONG

JIGGA WITH MOHSIN

Full Name :
Faisal Sheikh

DATE OF BIRTH
Sept 1st - VIRGO

LOCATION
Jigga Fez lives lavida loca in the city of abu dhabi.

PROFESSION
Rappin and chillin with homies, being real.

HOBBIES
4 sure watching movies, clubbin and just do whatever feels like at the moment.

FUTURE PLANS
well i plan to complete this album and then get into production. I wanna be able to bring new artists and song writers to the front. People who don't get the opportunity to make music or being real about their feelings will now get a chance to do their own thing. I wanna bring out remix album much like the Indian remixes and make a difference in the paki hip hip scene plus regular desi music scene.

HOW LONG YOU HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN MEDIA?
It's all good and been around for like 10 years, and yeah remember "neva gonna stop!"

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO MAKE MUSIC?
hey hey my real inspiarations are none other than my doggs Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, 50 Cents, Enimem, Jay-z, and yeah da one and only P Diddy. I feel Snoop n Dre brought gangsta rap to the fore front and P Diddy started the new HIp Hop Vibe. I guess these people have done a whole lot and hopefully I wanna do da same for the south east asia region.

My Indian Inspirations are Punjabi MC, Bombay Wikings, Bally Sagoo, and ofcourse the new sensation Rishi Rich Project.

Pakistan I like a whole mix but consider Junoon and Vital Signs the main force behind starting the POP and ROCK scene which is now turining into HIP HOP.

JIGGA WITH HIS PAL

HOW HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH PAKISTANI MEDIA BEEN SO FAR?
Well the media has been great so far. I have been interviewed by IM Requested and Desi Blender. Looking forward to some ARY Interviews.

ANY PLANS FOR A NEW VIDEO ANYTIME SOON?
Well we have shot the 2nd VDO clip and i feel it's OFF DA HOOK, simply kickin and on top of the world. I hope the people like it too. The VDO clip has been shot in Abu Dhabi and it's gonna take the audience into some new surprises.

HOW FAR DO YOU SEE PAKISTANI MEDIA EXTEND ITSELF?
Well i think they waited too long to do the right act, but i can say they are atleast on their way to making a difference now. Hope to see them doing some real crazy n cool stuff in the coming years.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR RECORDINGS
I have recorded my 10 songs.

TYPE OF MUSIC YOU LIKE?
It's all about HIP HOP and nothing even compares. YEH!

HOW DO U GUYS FEEL WHEN U R PLAYING LIVE?
Dubai 26th August. Karachi 1st. week of September.

WHAT COMES DEEPER FROM YOUR SOUL, MUSIC OR LYRICS?
My lyrics r straight from the heart and to the point and i gotta do my thing. A lot of people feel that i'm a little too much for the paki scene and people could be offended, but i feel its time for a change and the audience will understand where I'm coming from.

FAVORITE MUSICIAN?
Ali zafar, Snoop dog, Junoon, Punjabi mc

FAVORITE SONGS?
Usher's song YEAH and Beyonce's NAUGHTY GIRL.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT ePM?
well you guys are doing gud job...and really appriciate ur work...espcially Rizwan And KoOKiE..
thanx alot for all the stuff..and keep the gud job going..:)

FINAL COMMENTS
Hey I just wanna thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to express myself through music. My parents have been huge inspiration to me and without their support all this wasn't possible. Other than that I want to thank Faisal Rehman - Indus music as he helped me the most and trusted me with bieng myself. From music to my recordings to helping me find great singers, he's been there for me. And then I have some other names to Add - Nadeem Jaffar, Farhan Nadeem, Waseem Niaz, Adnan, Faisal Baig, Moby, Shaaaz, OJ, Ali, Sher, Hamza, and very special thanks to Jiggy Bushy for being a great support.

JIGGA

Exclusive Interview GAAJ's

Full Name :
Umer malik

AGE :
26

DATE OF BIRTH :
8th Feb 1978

PLACE OF BIRTH :
Islmabad

LOCATION :
Lahore

PROFESSION :
Mechanical Engineer

HOBBIES :
Singing, reading novels, modelling

FUTURE PLANS :
Wanna become an established vocalist and hopefully try to get a message across to the people.

HOW LONG YOU HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN MEDIA ?
I've been in media scene since i was 14. Thats when i did my first fashion show. I was a model at that time. Professional singing I started about a year back.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO MAKE MUSIC ?
GAAJ's music is composed by my buddy and band member Jehanzeb. I just take care of the vocals bit.

HOW HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH PAKISTANI MEDIA BEEN SO FAR ?
Well its been good and bad. Some people are just out to get you. On the other hand some people genuinly wanna help you. Its had its ups and downs really.

ANY PLANS FOR A NEW VIDEO ANYTIME SOON ?
Yes. We are planning on shooting two videos in oct this year.

HOW FAR DO YOU SEE PAKISTANI MEDIA EXTEND ITSELF ?
As far as the music industry is concerned. I think we have the best pop scene in the area. And perhaps one of the best in asia. I mean thats really something we should be proud us.

WHAT FLAWS DO YOU SEE IN PAKISTANI MEDIA TODAY ?
The biggest flaw is the lack of educated people in the industry. Lack of genuine people.

WHAT ABOUT YOUR MUSIC EDUCATION ?
I am and have been taking professional vocal training for about a year now.

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR MUSIC EQUIPMENT !
Aaah!! Thats a trade secret.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR RECORDINGS !
We are recording at one of the best studios in lahore.

SOURCES OF INSPIRATION ?
Wouldnt call them inspirations but i listen to Doors, U2, Pink Floyd, Dire Straights, Eric Clapton and other stuff like that.

OTHER OCCUPATIONS ?
Im working for a japanese multinational company in lahore as a mechanical engineer.

TYPE OF MUSIC YOU LIKE ?
Alternative / Rock.

TYPE OF MUSIC YOU DO NOT LIKE ?
Anything which i'm not in the mood for or anything copied.

HOW DO U GUYS FEEL WHEN U R PLAYING LIVE ?
Its great. ADRENALIZING. We havent started performing live as in gigs and all but we do jam for friends and thats pretty cool.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU WHEN COMPOSING A SONG ?
I am not composing GAAJ's songs. Jehanzeb is.

WHAT COMES DEEPER FROM YOUR SOUL, MUSIC OR LYRICS ?
Both actually. Ther are linked. Cant separate them.

HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO REMEMBERED ?
As someone who really made a difference with message oriented songs. Not as a teeny popper band.

FAVORITE MUSICIAN ?
JIM MORRISON.

FAVORITE SONGS ?
Riders In The Storm (DOORS), Coming Back To Life (Pink Floyd).

WHAT DO YOU DO TO EARN FOR LIVING ?
Im working as a mechanical engineer.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT ePM ?
Its a great site. I think its really wonderful to see such sites coming up and supporting pakistani pop scene. We need such people with good educated and creative head as yourself in the industry to bring it at par with the music industry of any other country. Otherwise it might just end up in shambles like our film industry. I think EPM is doing a great job. We wish EPM the best of luck in future.

FINAL COMMENTS !
I think that its about time that the youth of our country got up and learned to say NO to HOW THINGS USED TO BE. We have to change things. If things had been good in the past, PAKISTAN would not have been where it is at the moment in the first place. We have to move ahead and take pakistan to a place where its founders dreamt it to be. We have to show the world that our youth is not less than any other. We just have to believe in ourselves, fix our priorities,put our faith in God and walk in the direction of our dreams. I know one thing for sure
"If u really really believe in something and work hard enough for it. ITS YOURS !!"
Luv to all ...

Exclusive Interview SUR THE BAND

WHAT EUIPMENT DO YOU/BAND USE(S) ?
We Use 1 Lespol Guitar, 1 Starsun Acoustic Guitar, 1 Zoom Processor, Real Drum Kit.

WHY MUSIC ?
Because for most of the times in our lives music has come to rescue and we were always fascinated by its power.

HOW LONG HAS IT BEEN SINCE YOU HAVE BEEN INTO MUSIC ?
About 4 Years we are in Music Field.

ABOUT EDUCATION ?
Nabeel: Masters in Computer Sciences (Punjab College UCP).
Kashif: Masters in Business Finance (Punjab College).

WHO AND WHAT IS YOUR MUSICAL INFLUENCE(S) ?
Well it includes names from all genres of music. But some major influences were Junoon, Vital Signs, Pink Fllyod, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Mohammad Rafi.

HOW DID YOUR BAND'S NAME COME INTO BEING ?
Me & Kashif were class fellows and childhood friend so there is no big story about it and we just started working together.

HOW CAN YOU DIFFRENTIATE YOURSELF/BAND/MUSIC BY ANY ONE (OR MORE) THING(s) FROM EVERYONE ELSE ?
We r just announcing our hearts out so there is no comparison. We just bring out what we feel in real lives and our own emotions.

WHO WORKS ON WHAT IN THE BAND ?
Kashif: Lead Vocal / Composer.
Nabeel: Lead/Rhythm Guitars, Composer, Music

WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU ARE IN COMPETITION WITH ?
I think its unfair to declare any competition as we believe everyone out there in this industry is releasing what one feels is good enough.

WHAT DISTINGUISHES YOU FROM OTHER BAND'S ?
Our Songs.

ON STAGE, WHAT DO YOU FEEL ?
We enjoy our stuff and try to give a best. That why we attracts to our fanz.

WHO/WHAT FACTOR WOULD YOU LIKE TO RESPONSIBLE FOR REACHING SO FAR ?
Mainly our parents and friends who didn’t snub us and supported us through every thick n thin

WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO DEDICATE WHATEVER YOU HAVE DONE OR ACHIEVED SO FAR IN MUSIC ?
We all dedicate to our parents and to our sweet homeland Pakistan.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AFTER 5 YEARS ?
Happily married and raising kids.

WHAT DO YOU SEE IN MUSIC ? HOW DO YOU PERCEIVE IT ?
Well music is a medium of communicating your work and efforts to the masses. It sometimes play a major role in setting up one’s mood. We just want that at the end of the day there should be some people who can say that yes this song elaborates my feelings.

IF YOU HAD ONE CHANCE TO GO BACK IN PAST AND CHANGE IT ALL, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE ?
Our Past is our asset and we don’t want to change that…

WHAT DISTURBS YOU THE MOST IN THIS WORLD ?
Only Missed Calls…. It Hurts Yar

AS AN ARTIST, HOW DO YOU PERCEIVE THE WORLD ?
Inspiration is the biggest thing we perceive from the people around us. Everyone has a whole world in his own self and being a part of this world we are no different so we try to make things right for ourselves and for other as well and music is the one medium.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT NATURE ?
It’s the most fascinating thing on the globe. Any beautiful scene inspires us big time.

IF YOU WOULD HAVE BEEN UNSUCCESSFUL IN REACHING SO FAR AND GOTTEN NO CHANGE TO DO ANYTHING AT ALL IN MUSIC, WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING RIGHT NOW ?
Well music still is a passion for us and not a profession.

ANY MESSAGE FOR THE PEOPLE ?
Keep listening to our songs as there are many coming in near future and inform us with your feedback. Also be proud to be a part of this country. No matter what you do you cant separate it from your identity so be proud of it.

ABOUT OUR SITE ePakimusic.net ?
ePakimusic.net is a great site for every type of music listeners. They have really done a good work for new Bands. I hope they will achieve their destiny soon. (Insha Allah)

Exclusive Interview EVOLUTION's

Full Names :
Zahid, Adnan & Sohail

PLACE OF BIRTH :
Zahid = Abottabad
Adnan & Sohail = Karachi

LOCATION :
Karachi

PROFESSION :
Music

HOBBIES :
Music, Playing cricket.

FUTURE PLANS :
Launching our debut album.

HOW LONG YOU HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN MEDIA ?
Well we are in media around some years.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO MAKE MUSIC ?
Backstreet boys and other pop artists.

HOW HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH PAKISTANI MEDIA BEEN SO FAR ?
Its not bad.

ANY PLANS FOR A NEW VIDEO ANYTIME SOON ?
Yes, within a month.

HOW FAR DO YOU SEE PAKISTANI MEDIA EXTEND ITSELF ?
Music scene in Pakistan is developing day by day so we are hopeful.

WHAT FLAWS DO YOU SEE IN PAKISTANI MEDIA TODAY ?
Everybody who has contacts in media is singing so their should be some criteria for singing.

WHAT ABOUT YOUR MUSIC EDUCATION ?
Our experience.

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR MUSIC EQUIPMENT !
We are using Drums, Bass guitar and Lead guitar.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR RECORDINGS !
We have completed our 4 to 5 songs.

OTHER OCCUPATIONS ?
Only music nowadays.

TYPE OF MUSIC YOU LIKE ?
All kinds of good music, Ghazals, Rock, Pop etc.

HOW DO U GUYS FEEL WHEN U R PLAYING LIVE ?
Excellent.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU WHEN COMPOSING A SONG ?
We were sitting togethar and just compose this song. Nothing inspired us to make this song.

WHAT COMES DEEPER FROM YOUR SOUL, MUSIC OR LYRICS ?
Both.

HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO REMEMBERED ?
As an excellent band of Pakistan.

FAVORITE MUSICIAN ?
Carlos Santana, Nizar Lallani.

FAVORITE SONGS ?
Maria (Santana) , One Love (Blue) , Telling Everybody (Human Nature).

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT ePM ?
Its an excellent site of Pakistani music.

FINAL COMMENTS !
Its been a great experience to talk with Mr Rizwan and Mr Atif from ePM about music.

Exclusive Interview Black Warrant

Band's Name : Black Warrant

Music Genre : Heavy Metal

Website : http://www.BlackWarrant.com

Your Name : Ali Raza Farooqui

Age : 24

Your Role: Lead guitarist & vocalist

Date Of Birth : 4th Nov.

Education : BSE Computer Science

Profession : IT Manager

Hobbies : Music, computers, reading & internet

Future Plans : Allah knows better, what comes in my mind I do it, no special plans.

How long you have been involved in media ?
Almost 9 years

What inspired you to make music ?
I like creative stuff, and music is one of them, thats why I like to make music.

How has your experience with Pakistani media been so far ?
Not very good, It claims to be supportive but in reality its not. Just a few people messing with it and no one is stopping them. Its really sad for upcoming and musicians who really work hard.

Any plans for a new video anytime soon ?
Yes! One is being shot and other is in pipeline. hopefully we'll release it in the end of this year.

What flaws do you see in pakistani media today ?
It lacks orignality and professionalism

What about your music education ?
All from books and personal effort and music understanding. Had no proper
music education.

Tell us something about your music equipment ?
We use Gibson, Fender and Yamaha electric guitars, Peavy custom bass, BOSS ME-30, GT-6, MT-2 Effects. YAMAHA PSR-520 keyboard, Marshal amps, head etc.

Tell us about your recording ?
We have our own recording studio { mid-tech } and we fully use our technical skills ( software & hardware ) for high quality recordings.

Sources of inspiration ?
All heavy metal bands around.

Type of music you like ?
From classical to heavy metal provided its orignal and nice.

Type of music you do not like ?
Rap and if something that is not orignal even its good, because copied music should not be promoted.

How do you guys feel when you are playing live ?
We enjoy playing live and that is the reason we always play live, even our recordings are live and non sessional.

What inspires you when composing a song ?
Someone, something or it just comes to me.

What comes deeper from your soul, Music or Lyrics ?
Both, I do not compose any song, unless it comes from deep inside, and same is the case with lyrics.

How would you like to remembered ?
We would like to be rememberd as "different" from others.

Favourite musician ?
My personal favorite is Joe Satriani and Amir Zaki

Favourite songs ?
So many that i cant even name a few. all change with time and my mood.

What do you do to earn for living ?
I work as IT Manager and work part time as Media Consultant.

What do you think about ePakimusic ?
Differnt, and one good thing about ePM is that its promoting the part of Pakistani music most sites ignores. I wish you best of luck to ePM for what its doing.

Final Comments !!
The quality of music should be kept in mind and we see bands release a song and then their album comes out in a flash, well this is totally wrong. Music is a serious thing and most of them just to get more fame, produce B grade music and often fade away with time. This should change.

Exclusive Interview With IRE.........

By UBAID KHAN

IRE, an American based Pakistani band from Washington DC, brings forth with itself, the passion of rock, and the passion of their country, fusing with only one thought, to enjoy and to progress their skills in music. UMR introduces you all to IRE with this interview carried out by Ubaid Khan

First off, can you tell us about your band? How was it formed? How it became of birth & who are its current members?

Hammad:
Samir and I used to jam since high school, when we started university we met the rest of the gang at Guitar Center. Later we realized we all go to the same place, and some, in same classes; this lead to a great friendship and non-stop jamming in Sharjeel’s garage.

Samir:
Yea pretty much, we met in high school and Hammad used to come over and jam with me and we decided to form a band and it all worked out fine.

When & why did you guys start playing? Were you in any other band before joining Ire?

Hammad:
Music is my obsession. I was born to do this. Ire is my first brainchild.

Samir:
I love holding a guitar more than anything. My fret board is my kingdom.

Sharjeel:
I was in a white boy garage band back in high school. But I guess my cultural roots kicked in and I went my desi ways.

Did you guys have any musical education?

Hammad:
No, no education at all. Bus Allah ne wisay hi bardha quda’rty talent dia hai. (LOL)

Samir:
I went to Karachi for summer, and I took a short 15-day guitar course.

Sharjeel:
I took guitar lessons in high school.

What made you choose the name Ire?

We are going to be honest with you and not make up any stories about how we were rock climbing and fell and thought of ‘Ouch’ for a band name. We opened up the dictionary and started looking for synonyms for rage. Rage, because we were pissed off at the whole bey-suraa music scene progression. All the auto-tuned lip-syncers and the CD ‘artists’ were getting on our frikkin nerves. This band is a comeback for live entertainment.

What instrument and other equipment do you use?

Audio Technica Mic, Fender Acoustic,
Fender Startocaster, ESP M-50, Hohner acoustic, POD XT Line6,
Takamine Semi-acoustic, BOSS,
Ibanez Bass, 8pc Pearl kit, Bass POD.

What genre would you classify your music?

Ire has a unique sound. We don’t think that we could put a label on our music. First of all music is an expression and can be interpreted in any form a listener intends to. Secondly, once the album is out, inshAllah, you will witness the vast variation among our songs. We do not plan to stick to a certain formula approach rather experimentation is the key here.

Do you have any other famous musicians you admire? Either in US or abroad. Tell us about your inspirations.

Hammad:
Anybody who is devoted to music and really pursues it in terms of its true artistic and instinctive values is an inspiration for me. Other than that, I have always loved the work of Ustaad ji. Junoon has been an influence since childhood. I think Ali Azmat and Chris Cornell are one of the best singers I’ve ever heard, they both sing with such intense emotion. Incubus’s music gets me high without even smoking or sniffing anything.

Samir:
I really admire Faraz Anwar, the kind of stuff he plays especially in a country like Pakistan. Other than that I like Mekaal Hasan, Ganda Banda, Junoon, Mizraab, Dusk, also this band Incubus, and lots of instrumental rock artists (Joe, Vai, Petrucci, Allan).

Sharjeel:
Hendrix, Pearl Jam, Alter Bridge, Mekaal Hasan Band

A bands performance shows how long a band has been playing. How often & how long does Ire practice?

Practice is VERY important. We think a band will not get anywhere if they don’t practice much. Regardless of how good of a musician you are, you need to jam as much as you can, because with that you develop an understanding with other members, you are more likely to coordinate with them and this also helps in better stage performances. The reason some bands, performing live, rock way more than others is coordination; their ability to move accurately along the sound progression on stage. We try to jam every weekend, or whenever at least two heads get together.

Do you feel nervous while performing on stage?

Hammad:
You mean the OMG I’m bout to puke on the guy sitting down there type? No. Not that bad, but yeah, the first time ever I got on stage, my throat went dry and I felt my legs gave up on me (which isn’t really a good thing if your about to sing) and the spotlight was blinding me.

Samir:
For some reason, I always get nervous when we’re playing in front of a small audience, cause you can see people staring straight at ya. But the case was totally opposite when we opened for Junoon, the whole band rocked and for some weird reason, nobody was nervous at all

Sharjeel:
I just jump up and down like a maniac (it helps!)

You have participated in PSA shows & some other performances, how was the audience’s reaction towards the music you played?

We have to thank Allah for making it all turn out so great. We were really afraid the first time, because we were taking a big risk with our whole grungy music. Desi’s can’t really digest distortion that easily and the Washington DC market isn’t really the best for a rock band but on every single performance of ours we were highly appreciated and recognized. It was hard to digest at first but yea, it felt great buying your lunch at the campus’ cafeteria and spotting some fingers in your direction (not THAT finger).

What has Ire recorded so far? Which songs of Ire’s do you personally like?

Hammad:
We have 9 tracks down. Of course, you always end up adding or changing something in the track every day, but we are almost in our finishing stages. I like all the tracks. It’s like asking a mother pick a kid. We have spent equal amount of effort into each of them. But for now, DOWNLOAD SADA’A AND MILAN! You’ll LOVE it!

Samir:
Yeah as Hammad said, we have about 9 tracks down, and they are all DIFFERENT from each other, you might listen to ‘Milan’ and say hey these guys sound very pop rock kinda, and at the same time you listen to ‘Sada’ or ‘4 Bajay’ (which is not released yet), you’ll be like WOAH! My favorite is ‘4 Bajjay’.

Sharjeel:
Jazba Junoon, no wait, that’s not ours. Yeah, download Sada’a and Milan, you’ll know it!

What do you think of the current Pakistani music scene? Any favorites in particular?

Hammad:
I have not been to Pakistan in almost over 4 years and I am so glad that our rock scene has progressed so much. From what I hear and see, it is amazing to see all this new talent emerging. The more the people participate, the more they understand and the more they appreciate. Our audience can finally differentiate between performing live and running a DAT. Gone are the days for ‘artists’ doing a distorted solo on an acoustic guitar. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a live performance (Pakistani) as accurate and as astonishing as MHB. Hats off!

Samir:
Pakistani music scene has boomed in the past 3 years and going in the right direction. I think it has to do with all these music channels that came out there and yeah internet has also played a big part. And plus lots of bands/artists are experimenting a lot these days, like MHB, Mizraab, Fuzon. So yeah real quality is comin out.

Sharjeel:
Improving. My favorites are MHB, Junoon and Dusk.

Which music CD’s would we find in your car?

Hammad:
I have my whole hard disk burned on CD’s (it pays to keep an mp3 player)

Samir:
Is there Love in Space(Joe Satriani), Alive in an Ultra World(Steve Vai), Sampooran, Maazi Haal Mustaqbil, Sawal(Aaroh), Weathered(Creed), Morning View(Incubus) and lots of others, if I write down the whole list, you guys will run out of web space.

Sharjeel:
Spin Doctors, Junoon, Sam’s House, LIVE

How has your personal experience with Ire been so far? The band, performing, etc.

Hammad:
I find myself continuously growing along with it. Everyday brings something new to me. I’ve learned so much. In a way, I understood music through it. Performing live is one of the most adrenaline rushing experiences ever. Beats bungee jumping!

Samir:
Awesome! But these days we are not performing a lot, just concentrating on recording.

Sharjeel:
Awesomely Gay (happy one I mean)

How do you balance Music with other obligations in life?

Hammad:
It is HECTIC! School itself consumes a whole lot out of you, and living in America, working (something we don’t consider until mom starts looking for a rishta or sometimes even after you are married) is a norm of the society. It is hard to follow up with your studies and pursuing a career and at the same time, finding the time to sit down and come up with ideas and compose and record. But you know what they say, ‘shoq da koi mull naein’.

Samir:
Yeah that’s one thing that I personally have a problem with. Like studies, since I am an engineering major, studies are getting hard as hell, and plus keeping up with music and balancing both things out is a very big problem

Sharjeel:
I don’t! I just keep up with my life.

How hard is it for you guys to get exposed in Pakistan while sitting in America?

Hammad:
I think it is next to impossible to sit here and release an album in Pakistan. These days, if you don’t tour, you are nothing. That is why we want to finish the album first, run a few promotions through the internet and release a video on multiple channels and then once we are done with school, we can start touring inshAllah.

Samir:
Touring is very important. It plays the most important role in promoting an album and taking your music to even the smaller cities. I also think we are going to air our video heavily.

What can we expect from Ire in the future? Shed some light on its plans.

Hammad:
Upright butt-kicking energy!

Samir:
We are looking forward to further experimentation and developing some unique sound strategies. Probably blending different cultural and regional sounds into a single form.

There are so many websites & webzines out there promoting Pakistani music/artists/new talents Online, do you still think there is a need for more, by exposure means? Or are you happy with what we got already?

It’s a great feeling, it truly is that someone out there is helping us and many more like us out. We are really lucky to be living in an age where we can actually promote ourselves out there with such ease. Websites like UMR, BB, PakMusic, etc are doing an awesome job. With more webzines and websites, it will create competition on both sides which will only contribute to better and better content. With that in mind, we can promote Pakistani music much further than what it already has.

Any particular webzine you like? Where you get your information? And why do you like it?

Hammad:
UMR is a great place to find the always emerging Pakistani talent. What I really admire about UMR is that it is not limited to a certain genre. It gives equal exposure to every type. BandBaja is another amazing piece of work. I love them for their unique approach towards every artist and their never ending love for Radiohead.

Samir:
UMR, BandBaja, (Late) Karachi Underground, PM and Gol Gappay

What advice would you like to give to Pakistani musicians in America who are looking to get forward?

Hammad:
Don’t be afraid to give it a shot. It’s ALWAYS worth a shot. Even if you fail, you will have the satisfaction that at least, you tried. And do not treat music as means of making money or getting lucky. Music is an emotion, an expression, and a reflection of the true you. Make an impression!

Samir:
Living in America gives you a greater edge of access to the latest equipment. Use it!

Sharjeel:
No Drugs No War! Btw, where is my bong?

Lastly, what you do guys think of UMR?

Hammad:
We thank you deeply for recognizing us. You guys are doing an amazing job. What you are doing here requires great effort and dedication. Helping new bands and promoting Pakistani music totally ROCKS! So, GO UMR!!!

Samir:
Keep up the good work!

Sharjeel:
Rocks!

Interview With Ali Khan....

Hello Ali, how you doing today?
GREAT like always..

You have recently launched your two songs, Surmai and Saathiya, and received a respectful amount of appreciation from the nation, how does it feel?
Feels as if I just reached from where the real journey starts…

What expectations did you have from the songs?
I knew somehow, people will like the way I perceive things but never thought they’ll love it…

What inspired you in making music? And how long have you been playing?
Nature! Cause, I soon realized that everything in this world had a unique way of describing emotions and I wanted to describe mine in my way and soon found notes within me and since then I’m perusing it….

Listening to your music, we figure, pop is the highlight, but are there any other genres, that you prefer doing, or would be doing in your upcoming album?
Well I love blues, electronic pop, ethnic pop but I don’t work by keeping in mind that this has to be in blues or e-pop as long as it complements to my perception…

Album, when are we expecting it to release? Can we expect anything different/experimental from the normal pop/trance scene in the market?
I don’t believe following and therefore I’ll rather lead my own way but its essential to learn the rules made by maestros before you start breaking them and I’ll definitely be breaking all of them, so you’ll get to hear fusion of different genres in my album.

Do you play any other musical instrument, or prefer working more on your vocals?
I started playing piano when I was 8 so definitely I consider myself a good pianist but apart from that I play guitars

Have you taken any vocal training before? Or was it all self-experimentation and practice.
No but I always knew that I was gifted cause everyone in this world is, but you have to work on it to make it really special and I did so. I used to take any semi classical song and tried perfecting it and when I got through with that, it was time for a more difficult one.

Tell us about the equipment you use at home and in the studios
It’s a little secret that shouldn’t be revealed but it’s all around virtual synthesis.

Do you want to do a concept album?
Yes but in future.

Where do you drive your lyrics from?
From within.

Are there any upcoming events in which you will be performing live?
Well I’m focusing on my album so I don’t want any distractions at the moment…

With the current progress in the Pakistani music scene, what benefits do you feel for your music genre? Till where do you think it would be appreciated?
People have started accepting out of the ordinary so I have high hopes….

Are you interested in any other media fields, like modeling, direction and etc?
NO.

Who helps you in composing music, and writing lyrics for your songs?
I solely do all the writing and composing thing but there are people who help me with ideas relating to the arrangement and stuff. Namely Agha Zaki.

Are there any plans of making your video of any of the released songs?
Yes! ‘Surmai Ankhein’ will be the first one....

If so, then who are you expecting to direct?
Ahsan Raheem

Going through some of your unreleased tracks, I came across the versatility in your musical projection, how confident are you, in releasing them, and getting the same amount of appreciation from the masses?
I don’t entangle myself in rewards. I just play my part and leave the rest to ALLAH…

While releasing your songs into the media scene, had you face any difficulties?
NO

Are you working on a separate project with any other musicians in the field? Who and on what are you working?
I’m producing Zohaib Hassan’s new album..

Do you plan to stick to solo, or plan to make a band in the future?
NO! I'll stay solo..

What do you plan to do in the future?
Nothing can change my passion for music. Not even time .

Couple words to your fans…..
Please start believing in yourself cause the day you do this you'll realize that your gifted in one way or the other..

Thank You for your time..
Your welcome

Interview Conduced by Talha A Khan, with the help of Agha Zaki.

exclusive_interview

Tarb the Band.....

By MEHREEN KHAN

When and who initiated ‘Tarb’ to form?
It was Faisal who initiated tarb to form, he along with Basit started ‘Tarb’ then Sameer joined the band. It was basically 3 of us initially.

The band consists of how many band members? And what role do they play in the band?
The band consists of five members
Faisal mehdi (lead guitars, songwriter & composer)
Sameer irfan (vocals)
Abdul basit amjad (rhythms, composer)
Faraz (drums)
Faizan (bass)

Faisal writes & composes songs and these songs are then being processed by Abdul basit. Basically it’s a sort of work, which these guys share, & they do know how to raise hell out of em?

What does the band name ‘Tarb’ mean?
Tarb means to bring happiness through music, to bring a good change through the music.

What kind of music does Tarb play? And what are its musical influences?
Well tarb is into every category that a rocker is being quipped with, in fact we guys do want to know where do we belong, coz after looking through our album’s numbers it is really very very hard to define the limit.

As far as influences are concerned then we must say, tarb is really a big big fan of Anathema, Beethoven, Mozard, Iron Maiden, Korn, Metallica & Tarb?

Your debut song, Sarab, has been appreciated a lot amongst the fans out there, what was your prediction of the song, before release?
Well It’s A Good Sign That People Are Loving It But I Guess We Weren’t Expecting Such & As Far As This Song Is Concerned Then We Must Say: People Aren’t Taking It The Way We Wanted To And That’s A Bit Disappointing, But Who Cares At least They Are Loving It Nah

Who helped in composing the song? Tell us more about your song ‘Sarab’

Faisal wrote this song & composed its rhythm pattern way back 31st dec. 1999 eve heheheh and after forming tarb he composed the song along with Abdul Basit. Overall as we mentioned before they are the key guys for us.

How do you plan to promote it in the current media scene?
Well we aren’t planning a lot regarding sarab but if we do get more requests regarding it then we would go for it. But this current declining media is hopeless for us coz its always promoting bands from Lahore not from Karachi in this heavy metal scene and we guys are sick of their attitude coz we’ve been kicked by Indus music before coz they were saying to convert sarab into a Bhangra Shit and that pisses us off.

Any plans of working on its video? Or do you plan to release some more songs, before that?
Now we are planning to record our three to four numbers and would also make their videos along with the passage of time, lets see what happen in the future.

We seem to believe that the recording of the song ‘Sarab’, lacks quality, but keeping in mind that you being an underground band, what do you think was the disadvantage to the lack of quality in recording?
Wow that is the best question, well we do know that Sarab lacks quality but do you think its just us who are lacking it, even Faraz Anwar lacks many aspects so its all about having a good recording studio & to hire a good recording/sound engineer. It is very important for every metal band coz its all about thrashing guitars and drums and mic levels & if we do find one then they are either very demanding in terms of money or time or they don’t want to make a good output from us coz they have this jealousy factor among them. But one more thing we would love to add… just think if sarab was being launched by any big name then nobody even think about loop holes in it, coz of label & we do want to make its image higher in the eyes of our friends with respect to all the big names out their.

Where do you jam your songs?
At the faraz’s place, with lots of patience of his neighbors.

How do you record your songs? In a home based studio or do you record it in a professional Studio?
Well What Do You Think We Are… It’s All Home Based

How do you think, can the current media scene, support in rising the underground bands?
Please don’t let us say things about the media. Its just these websites helping us and all the hype that we are getting, either its all through internet/shows or its through our personal promotional tools. And as far as this media is concerned then it’s a sort of media that is not going to support us coz of the songs we have in our album which are religious & rebellious in nature.

After your first release, do you now plan to play concerts in your city?
Why not? It would be an honor to play in our city. And we are planning these days to arrange a solo TARB concert where we would play all our numbers and the message that we want to negate through the music that we are doing, INSHALLAH we would explain them all.

Future Plans?
Day Dreamers Dream About Future And Plans Thing For Them And We Aren’t Day Dreamers But Yes We Do Have This Planning Things Coz Its All About The Message That We Want To Convey To The Mankind Through Our Music So Its Our Responsibility, Every Muslim’s Responsibility & We Guess We Are Working For Different Wake-Up Calls?

Share few words…
Its time to think about what is cutting us from our religion. Allah has made this world for us and this world belongs to Allah. But unfortunately the laws of Azazel are ruling us all, everywhere there is a fuss between the good and the bad and we Muslims are being fascinated by the shining colors they are showing us. So it’s time to plan something that can regain Islam back among our lives. Today’s reality is that a lot of people is Muslim but all Muslim lands have kufr implemented on them, & the ummah has been falsely divided into imaginary boundaries. We should understand correctly what Complete means when we say that Islam is a complete system of life, so it gives answers to every aspect of life & solutions to every problem.

We wish The band Tarb, all the best for their upcoming ventures, and hope to see them rise in the underground music scene.

news

JilaWatan Cricket Torunament?
It is said that every Sundays our National Heros play Cricket, just to keep themselves fit, for the next event. So those of you who are interested to join the club, can be there for selections. Location: Alpha Society Cricket Ground Paparazzi Alert!

Strings and Umar Anwar - A New Funda?
Strings and Umar Anwar working together for a video? Umar wats up man?

What?!?!
Salman Ahmed and Atif Aslam working on a joint project

New Albums!
Ali Azmat, Fuzon, Noori - Said to release album after Moharram....

Deewane? :S
Deewane, Ali Azmats solo debut video is expected to release soooooooooooon

Yaadein in Making
Rox3n, Lahore based band is currently working on their debut video Yaadein, with Xulfi as the Director.

Videos worth waiting for....
Xulfi, the new director on pan ki dukaan, is currently working on Roxen`s Yaadein, Call's Kaash, Sahil's Tu Bol, MHB's Darbari and EP's Rahguzar

Noori Censorship!
Indus Music/ARY The Musik, recently sent Noori's second video, from the upcoming album back. Reasons... ab khud hi samajhlo!

Razam....
Coming Soon with a solid news - legally!

Babars Tour
Babar Sheikh just came back from a tour from germany ,Gave a hell of
a performance .There new site is up so chk it out.

www.duskhorde.com

eXclusive Interview with Razam

By ALI ASGHAR TAHA

Hello, how are you guys doing today?
We are fine, thank you

What’s been going on with Razam lately? We heard that that Omair Tareen was made to leave the band but then a few weeks later he rejoined? What’s the latest scoop on that?
Ha-ha. Band *laughs out loud* not. Actually it was like. Khalid butt the rhythm guitarist of the band was out of the town he was busy in his in business which was in Faisalabad So it was like, miscommunications and . Some matters because of what we decide to quit with this Razam. I don’t know why this thought of mine made into a so called *HUGE* news. That RAZAM IS NO MORE? Ha-ha! What do u except from us? That we will fight together. That hey this is my song no. This is your song ha-ha. We are united.

Your video of the song Khoobsurat featured a ‘Maut ka Kuwaan.’ What was that about? Many of us would also like to know the reason behind Omair Tareen wearing that mask!
Nothing much. Our director is our very old friend Murtaza came up with this concept MAUT KA KUWAN one. So we did this experiment too like every other thing we do. The reason behind UMAIR TAREEN and his very own BLACK MASK. eh?

Bebasi has been doing rounds on the music channels for quite sometime now. Are you happy with the way it’s being received? What expectations did you have from the song?
Hums . Yes we know that song did very good job indeed and still it is on air. And getting aired daily. But still I guess the "khoobsurat" era is not over. Because people still requesting for it. Hums the thing is that different people have different taste of music. And different taste so we can’t comment on this very much thing. That this is our HIT SINGLE. Because we know. Our every song is HIT SINGLE
Because we aren’t going to make 1 SONG ERA? Like ADDAT ERA? Or something likes that. We g0nna make it. RAZAM. ERA !!! In which RAZAM can rule all the over. Not just one by SINGLE. Because we believe that if a person going all the way to Cd shop to buy a Cd of 100rs or whatsoever really deserves to get a treat in all of the 10-12 songs; and not only in 1 song.

Khoobsurat was the song that brought Razam to the limelight. But Bebasi, and the two new/other (I’m not really sure about how ‘new’ these songs are) songs Yeh Pyaar Hai and Khusk Pattay have a more mature feel to them music wise as well as lyrically. What would you say about that?
Hums no comments: P ha-ha
we don’t know what to say here ok yes khoobsurat did good job for us Bebasi too Yeh Pyar Hai, Khusq Patay and two another singles in home version Aina and Aisa Koi To Ho all of them are doing good job as I mentioned above different people different taste different listening different favorites. So we are giving the treat to die heart fans of music by all of our numbers we aren’t focusing on 1 hit single we aren’t commercialize shit or we aren’t doing for the sake of earning all of us are well off we aren’t haft a do this thing to earn money we are doing this for our own sake and for them who really know , what music is? Talking about Khusk Pattay and Yeh Pyaar Hai, are we going to see videos of them soon?
Yes sure INSHALLAH. As we mentioned you before you guys are going to have the treat very soon sorry we can’t disclose here our plans. But just wait for the surprises

Going back to the video of Bebasi, the video features a different version of the song than the audio version we have all heard on the internet. What’s the reason for this?
That was our home version which u heard it on net. We aren’t releasing the original tracks c0s what if we release the original tracks? People really g0nna buy our Cd? Why they g0nna do when the tracks will be available on the net before the album release? we are putting ourselves in their shoes and thinking if we take our selves individually if we are getting the songs of any artist or any band on net we aren’t g0nna buy the Cd why we g0nna buy for? Just to see the art work of the Cd? Eh? CRAP! So here it is a message for all of our fans. That the versions you are getting on net are just home version the versions in the album/video will be different u already experienced this in bias

Ps: NO WEBZINES GOING TO RELEASE OUR ALBUM WITHOUT OUR COPYRIGHTS! Otherwise ha-ha Copyrights RESERVED! :D *WINKS*

Tell us something about the history of Razam. Whose brainchild was it and when did it come into being and your musical inspirations.
Ha-ha the band laughs again this time very loud! Anyway, lets come to the
The RAZAM STORY!
Once upon a time in 97,
Umair Tareen used to listen to rock music used to play a guitar little bit and have passion in myself to make up a band and come through in masses like every youngster who is associated to playing music
anyway by one of my friends I came to know that there is some so called KHALID BHAI ha-ha know how to play guitar then Umair Tareen went to him met him and tell him the concept of the band RAZAM . On another hand Khalid Butt was also focusing to make up some band because same another youngster DREAM of a band. then we met our old drummer then Umair Tareen brought in Umer ihram as lead guitarist who is my childhood friend this way Razam formed then we started jamming and we come up with our first single WAQT we don’t know we going to release that track or not but we must say very good and old memories attached with that song then the QUESTION come up how come QAISER Existence came up in the band. Qaiser used to be the friend of us Zeeshan wasn’t comfortable with us he got into different ways and tried to fool us out we thought we better mess up our friendship and our band we replaced him and Qaiser came up in the band as the drummer and no doubt since then till now he really supported us with his awesome and fiery drumming skills. We owe him for that. Then the QUESTION rose up for our MANAGER? Syed Aly Imran So, Umair always loves to do experiment. I put up a newbie who wasn’t into bands management and put up in the band to handle the management stuff for us and that experiment was good enough and he is doing really for us :) as far as musical inspirations are concerned it was Junoon. Nirvana G.N.R., Pearl Jam we saw them playing we heard their music and we decided to made the band and that’s it

Tell us something about the upcoming album. Is Daur-e-Jahalat going to be a concept album and what kind of music will we get to hear in it. Will Razam stick to the basic rock genre or can we expect something different as well?
Well what do u except from us? That we are going to cover CHANNO or ADDAT or something like that? In front of a crowd? Ha-ha! We aren’t that kind of band being so senior and playing CHANNO oh C’mon! People! Stop doing that things or stop calling your self `THE BEST LIVE ACT IN PAKISTAN`. LOL! Anyway, lets come to our album this is all surprise for all of you but I must give u a hint it will be TREAT for all of the music lovers

The music scene is evolving in Pakistan and the masses are slowly coming out of listening to the same ‘synthesized’ tones over and over again. Where do you see Razam standing in this picture and how important do you think is the role that Razam has played? And do you think whether Razam has been truly appreciated in this respect?
Razam, never appreciated in this respect until or unless there are lobbies like 3 4 band getting into 1 management and they are ruling all over the country ha-ha? What's the shit? they call them self the so called best guitarist the best composers people might get hint what we are talking about ha-ha so get a life dudes get out of your so called city and see what Pakistan really having? Great players like Adnan Afaq, Faraz Anwar and so on. We were really shocked people comparing Meekal Hasan and Faraz they both go in different ways but people mention that Meekal Hasan is the best guitarist we respect him because he is a good guitar player but u know? MEEKAL himself mentioned that he is inspired by FARAZ ANWER on his official website meekalhassanband.com

Who writes the lyrics for Razam and where are the driven from? The lyrics are simple and deliver the message across effectively. Tell us more about the lyrical philosophy of Razam. Does Razam believe in the philosophy of ‘Less Is More?’
Lyrics? What lyrics? Ohm good question, next question please :)

When do we get to see Razam live in concert again?
Razam is performing every week now every weekend hums this week we are having a live jam session at dunkin donuts last week we had a promotional concert for your die heart fans and in couple of weeks we have lined up some of the concerts u better keep checking out the forums for the details
http://razamonline.info

Tell us something about the studio setup of Razam, the equipment you guys use while jamming etc.
Studio Setup hums our studio setup named as RAZAM JOINT which is located at our manager's place.
And we jam right there in our studios we use Ibanez. Rg550 (Umer Ikram) Jackson (Umer Ikram) and couple of vamps. 1 Marshall Bass amp for 2 Peavey 60watts. Guitar amps
a 6 channel mixer Bc Rich warlock Floyd rose (Khalid butt) les Paul(Khalid butt - which is always claimed by Omar that he owns it) Power beat bass (Umair Tareen) sm58 Shure vocal mike (Umair Tareen) this it and some of the leads some extra guitar strings and . Picks bohat cheezian hai yar abb log boley gye show off kar rahein hai!

What do you feel about the current transactions in the media, i.e. Radio, TV, Newspapers and the Internet? How are they helping in terms of promotions?
They are helping a lot in promotions but we will say again like we mentioned above when this lobby thingy g0ing to be over the things will be getting equally to all of the bands.

While releasing your songs into the media scene, had you face any difficulties?
Not so far. But we don’t know what will happen after this interview

What more could fans look forward to from Razam in the future?
Videos in quite quick sessions this time
Album release
Promotional concert for fans and forum members (Invitation Only) in Major cities of Pakistan
And Concert as usually but this time more often

Anything you would like to say to the aspiring musicians of the country and to your fans?
Regarding musicians all of you are doing good job but still u guys need to put your input in it don’t go for over night fame first prove yourself
That u can play that much good music then go for this FAME thingy

And regarding our fans?
YOU GUYS ROCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKS!!!!!
We love you all! In the end we all g0nna say thanks for the support you guys really rock; just buy our album ha-ha and join our forums on http://www.razamonline.info

For more queries:
Call Aly Imran (MANAGER of the band) 03002315856
Or Email him [email protected]

Thank you.
Regards,
RAZAM
(Umair Tareen, Khalid Butt, Qaiser Zain, Umer Ikram and Syed Aly Imran)

Atif Aslam was in Dubai on 31st August to Shoot his Video Mahi Ve for the Album Jal Pari.The video is Directed by Farhan Nadeem.The video is expected to air next month. Videos of this unplugged performance will also be available very soon.

news

Babars Tour

Babar Sheikh just came back from a tour from germany ,Gave a hell of
a performance .There new site is up so chk it out.

www.duskhorde.com

Eid Treat by Jilawatan Productions and Bands!

Jal, currently working on their forth video, Aik Din Aega, being directed by Xulfi[again] and it is said to have a horror/thriller feel to it. Not only that, Call, too is working on their second video after the major success of Pukaar on the charts, Kash is said to be the video next!

Mizraab, with the next video Aag?

It said that Mizraab is currently under production of their next video and is to be released soon on all the TV channels. The video, will be the song, Aag and is being directed by non other the talented director on the block, Umair Tareen.

Jawad Ahmed’s Next Video

Jin Jan Tu Sohyinee is being directed by Ahsen/Amena. Lets see what Jawad Ahmed has in stored for all of us.

New Album + Video = Faakhir is Back!

Fakhir’s upcoming album, which is currently being recorded in India, in the Spectral Harmony Studios where the super block buster Bollywood movie Kal Ho Na Ho’s sound track and others Bollywood hit music have been recorded. Also Faakir’s new video of ‘Tuba Tuba’ is being made in India by Marlin[an Indian Director.] So Faakhir too has treat for his fans!

Ali Zafar’s Rangeen

Rangeen is directed by Ahsen/Amena. The video has made in Karachi Eastern Studio, featuring all the big models and in the ending, like always you will notice the good old Faisal Qureshi.

Finally Ali Azmat

As you all know that video of Deewana has been already shot by our very own favorite director Jami, also featuring Sajid Husain and many more in the video. As for Ali’s album it is expected to release right after Eid or on Eid!

Raakht Video

Nabeel Chishty and Kamran Khan are coming out with their Bollywood movie Raakht’s title track’s video which has been shot at Evolution Hotel Karachi DHA, by director JALAL.

Nini making a Punjabi Film

Nini of Lahore is making a Punjabi Film and for those who don’t know NINI is, he is a male. And was the part of the famous Dr Aur Billa group which hs Faisal Qureshi, Jawad Bashir, Eshan Rahim. But these days the band only has Jawad Bashir the real creator of the band....

Bori Baat Shehzad Roy

Shehzad Roy's new album titled Bori Baat is also in the final mix stage. It is said that he is going to India to record a song with some one BIG on a project, and his album is expected to release on New Years Eve.

Junoon and their Nominations

Junoon has been nominated in the Category of Best Band at ARY Bollywood Awards to be held in Dubai on 2nd December 2004! Junoon is nominated in the category of Best Band, and their album “Dewaar” is nominated in the category of best album. Junoon’s lead vocalist Ali Azmat has also been nominated for the song “Garraj Baras”.

Prepare for Fuzon 2

Fuzon is expected to release their 2nd Album....on 1st Jan 2005.

Jafri Leaves Noori

Noori bass player Mohammad Ali Jafri has announced his departure from the band. Ali Noor, Ali Hamza and Gumby plan to continue Noori as a three-man outfit.