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The array of new bands from that slot had a broad and segmented listening group and with the advantage of cutting-edge technology in recording and media, they were one-step ahead. It was then that Aurthohin's second album Biborton started making unbelievable records both home and abroad. The sole album on release, became the Best Seller of 2001-2002 in New York, Jackson Heights Bangla Community. Following that success and the introduction of a fresh and improved form of music, Artcell, Black and Cryptic Fate a.k.a the popular ABC triangle released their solo debut Bangla albums. It was a groundbreaking performance with Artcell's progressive rock synthesis, Black's alternative rock compositions and Cryptic Fate's old-school-metal madness.
The most famous bands heading the rock scene now are mentionably Aurthohin as a caring father followed by the famous ABC faction. Although Miles has remained silent for a longer period than expected (in Bangladesh but staging a whole lot of shows in India recently), it is Nagar Baul, who still wishes to fight with occasional good compositions. Bangla, however is the only band having 'rock influence', and continues to create an uproar with its folk, fused with contemporary fashioned music breeding into tremendous hits. Our music scene, moreover, is now prized with another new set of talented bands (from noble projects as mixed compilation of Sumon's Agontuk and Duray's Dinbodol) Arbovirus, Aashor, Breach, dNA, Fulbanu's Revenge, Nemesis, Kral, Kronic, Reborn, Stentorian. The successful Old DOHS open-air Alternative concert of 2002 brought bands like Breach and Fulbanu's Revenge into the lime light. Breach later carried onto receiving a record deal from G-series. Others worthy of receiving such award included Kronic, Triloy, Nemesis and Ajob from Ektaar label. The bands Breach, dNA, Fulbanu's Revenge and Sellout are very promising musicians of the new generation. Their painted faces, wardrobe of fancy cloaks in concerts brings about a hip-hop, rock 'n roll rebel approach relaying to emotional staging. They always leave behind an energetic crowd who certainly miss their heroes in action off-stage.
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These present bands believe that, although there are about a handful of good recording studios, the revolutionary Pro Tools- "the greatest gift to amateur musicians", came to great aid and advantage for amateur musicians. The recording facility is good, despite the fact that they are behind international standards. The sudden rise of the available facility however is a positive indication. They seemed to be happy with their record label G-Series, allowing them to experiment a completely new dimension of strategic music.
Rock in Bangladesh never had a flashy start. It was rather careless and painful--unavailability of musical instruments, practise pads, social obstruction (uptight parents) and later DRUGS were among the many hurdles it has had to contend with. For many artistes like James, rock started from the streets with a lone man strumming his guitar, gazing through the strings to look for his much-awaited tune--it was tough. Ayub Bachhu very emotionally stated, “the amount of favours and sponsors which are provided to sports, if our music scene could get one-fourth of that blessing, Bangladesh music would have been in the forefront of glory throughout the world.”
As the story ends here for them, it will continue to improve with new faces. These true musical patriots wish to create waves and leave a rich legacy for those who will follow their lead.
Author and Courtesy:
Faizul A Tanim
& The Daily Star
Edited by Nahidul Haq
