Majhpoth is a rock band based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Officially formed in 2022 by a group of ragtag university students. Majhpoth has been on a journey to discover their sound and carve out a unique space in the Dhaka music scene.
Guitars: Maruf Ahmed & Farabi Zaman Rafat Vocals: Shohan M Rahman, Farabi Zaman Rafat & Rumnaz H Antu Drums: Shohan M Rahman Bass: Waseq Zahir
Their latest song, Zawii (Cholo Jai Hariye) is about escapism. It’s about how we try to wear a mask in society and deal with everyday life to survive. But once in a while, we try to lose ourselves and break free from societal bonds for peace of mind.
Introducing Hawai Mithaiyer Gaan aka HMG, a dynamic band born from the creative synergy of two lifelong friends, Murshedul Arefin Riyad and Tasin Bin Noor, who are on a mission to explore sound and self-discovery through their music.
Murshedul Arefin Riyad, a multi-instrumentalist who worked with several bands in Bangladesh and played in numerous live shows came up with an idea to make a cover album “Tribute to Radiohead” with his longtime friend and younger brother Tasin Bin Noor who is a vocal and guitarist; amidst the pandemic. Mainly because of their love for experimenting with the sound, voice; specially mixing up different genres, insinuated them to convert the tribute project to a full fledged band. Along the way, their friends joined in with their special set of skills. Rezuwan Hasan, Maruf Hossain and Fahad hasan, Sampreety Ali, Minhajul Arifin Shovon contributed to the artworks and animations while most of the songs mastered and mixed by Mohaiminul Islam Bhuiyan who is also a extraordinary guitarist.
HMG released their first album on 13th September, 2024 primarily on their YouTube and Spotify Channel. Along with the main Artists Murshedul Arefin Riyad and Tasin Bin Noor, accomplished musicians like Mousam Dhamai (Bassist, Karnival) and Hector Lacona (Treams, Germany) played in this album. Most of the compositions are from Riyad and Tasin, also Riyad produced the album.
“Jagoron” is a conceptual album that captures the introspective journey of a any individual in Bangladesh, who, after a long day, embarks on a path of self-discovery. The album is an odyssey through six transformative stages, revealing the essence of one’s true self. To grasp the full meaning behind the melodies and lyrics, one must experience the songs in the prescribed order.
(1) Discovery of Self “Amakei Dorkar”: In the bustling heart of Bangladesh’s social tapestry, the true essence of the self often gets overshadowed. Amidst the clamor of voices and opinions, the quest for one’s true identity is relegated to the shadows. Yet, in a rare moment of solitude, a deeper, more authentic self emerges from the depths, longing to break free from the societal masks. This self seeks to challenge the preconceived notions and the comforts of the familiar. As the layers of social conditioning peel away, a new, liberating definition of contentment takes shape. This song encapsulates the struggle and ultimate triumph of embracing one’s true self.
(2) Illusion “Ghour”: With the unveiling of the true self comes a disorienting uncertainty. The newfound awareness blurs the lines of reality, casting doubts on existence and purpose. This phase is marked by awe and confusion, as the boundaries of the old self dissolve. The song navigates through the maze of illusions that cloud the mind, capturing the essence of this transformative bewilderment.
(3) Trial “Kathgoray”: Emerging from the haze, there is a compulsion to seek out others who share this journey of self-discovery. Interactions become a courtroom where judgments are passed and introspections are deepened. Through the scrutiny of others and the internal dialogue, the newly discovered self is tested and refined. This song delves into the introspective trials and the search for kindred spirits, reflecting the struggle for self-validation in a judgmental world.
(4) Journey to the Unknown “Ojanay”: As the trial concludes, a profound solitude sets in, bringing with it a nostalgic longing for the past self. This internal conflict transforms into a journey of grief and love, a voyage with no clear destination. The song portrays this melancholic reconciliation between the old and new selves, a pilgrimage through the uncharted territories of the soul.
(5) Exile “Pakhir Nirbashon”: Despite the reconciliation, a self-imposed exile ensues. Detached from the emotional turmoil, there is a serene acceptance of the surrounding world. The song reflects this state of non-judgmental observation, where the self finds peace in isolation, free from the clutches of emotional entanglement.
(6) Forgive Me Darkness “Khoma Koro Ondhokar”: In the final act, the reason behind the quest for self-discovery comes into sharp focus. It was the pervasive darkness that spurred the journey. Seeking forgiveness from this omnipresent shadow, there is an attempt to bid it farewell. Yet, in this farewell, the cycle begins anew, with the true self echoing the initial call, “Amakei Dorkar,” bringing the narrative full circle. The song is a poignant reflection on the cyclical nature of self-discovery and the eternal dialogue with the darkness within.
“Amar Bhai,” written by Sahil Sanjan, is an emotional tribute to the lives lost in July’s riot in Bangladesh. The song captures the raw grief of a brother mourning his sibling, who was shot during the protest. With heartfelt lyrics, it not only speaks to the pain and loss experienced by many but also calls out the silence of beloved celebrities who chose to look away in this time of crisis. This song stands as a moving reminder of the courage and sacrifices made in the fight for a better future, while questioning the indifference of those in positions of influence.
“Signs” is an indie pop song written and performed by Shadab Shams, featuring a verse from Anika Rashid Khan. Originating from Dhaka, Bangladesh, the 3-minute English track was later engineered at Coma Studios by Hasib Reza in Kuwait.
Leading the band ‘Attic’ as the frontman, Shadab has been performing live in the local music scene since the age of 13. He is known for his charismatic and intimidating stage presence, along with a notable performance in the popular local music video “Echoes In Your Attic” by Attic.
Anika Rashid Khan, 24, is a singer who recently released her debut pop-ballad single, “Messed Up” on various platforms. Anika has been active in Dhaka’s music scene playing private parties, clubs, and public community events. She now resides in New York.
The two singers met through Dhaka’s music scene and have been friends ever since.
The song was written before the Covid-19 pandemic, and its music video was shot in Dhaka during the 2021 lockdown, directed by Nadeem A Salam. Shadab had been very patient for years editing the music video, and finding an engineer to produce the song with him. Finally, an international collaboration with Hasib Reza set the song up for release.
The song tells a story of heartbreak and separation from the perspectives of both parties in a romantic relationship, while the melody implies an underlying sense of freedom, as contrast to the painful lyrics. In a bigger view, the song is an expression of surrender to the inevitable closure in relationships, and calls for the embracement of the bittersweet nature of life.
As Warfaze enters their 40th year, one of their most beloved tracks “Obak Bhalobasha” has been re-envisioned for Coke Studio Bangla’s third season. This cult classic from the ’90s holds a special place in the hearts of many who grew up listening to it, with its meaningful lyrics and beautiful arrangement.
The anticipation for Warfaze’s performance of this iconic song was high, and they did not disappoint. Penned, composed, and voiced by Babna, the track immediately transports listeners to a magical place where nostalgia reigns supreme. The collaboration with Ibrahim Kamal Ahmed and Samir Hafiz adds a new dimension to the song, while lead vocalist Palash Noor’s powerful voice takes the second part of the track to new heights.
Sheikh Monirul Alam Tipu’s drums and Shams on the keyboard round out the arrangement, making the overall experience truly brilliant. Fans of Warfaze and lovers of Bangladeshi music can rejoice in this reimagined version of “Obak Bhalobasha,” which is sure to reignite fond memories and rekindle old passions. So sit back, relax, and let Warfaze’s timeless music take you on a journey through the past and present.
The Bangla Music Scene was launched on March 20, 2023 with a mission to discover, promote and curate a diverse range of new and talented artists of Bengali origin, while creating opportunities for those who may not otherwise have a platform.
“We are always on the lookout for talented artists who have a unique sound and a story to tell,” says the founder of Bangla Music Scene. “Our goal is to showcase songs that deserve to be heard by a wider audience. There are so many incredible artists out there with amazing songs, but they often struggle to reach a larger fanbase. We want to change that.”
Bangla Music Scene’s mission is to elevate Bengali music to new heights and introduce it to a global audience, by providing a platform for artists to showcase their work and connect with fans from around the world.
As the organization continues to grow, Bangla Music Scene is committed to discovering and promoting new talent, and is focused on bringing Bengali music to the industry forefront while make a lasting impact on the global music scene.
