A for Aleph Podcast

In this episode of Aleph Podcast join us in a captivating conversation as we dive into the life and music of Nabeel Nihal Chishty - best known for his role as lead guitarist and musical composer for the band Aaroh.

From his early days in Saudi Arabia to his musical odyssey in Pakistan, Nabeel's story is one of passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication. Discover how he struck the right chords in both his professional career and his musical pursuits, including his remarkable work with Aaroh that left an indelible mark on Pakistan's music scene. This is a conversation that resonates with the soul, inspiring the pursuit of dreams.

Nabeel Nihal Chishty, a guitar maestro, was born on May 9, 1976, in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. His journey into the world of music started in Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia, where he, along with childhood friends Farooq Rauf, Ashraf Ansari, and Shehzad Hussain, formed the band "Arena." Their humble beginnings involved composing music and recording it on cassette recorders.

Nabeel's pursuit of music led him to Karachi, where he honed his guitar skills under the mentorship of Faraz Anwar. Despite his family's emphasis on education, Nabeel managed to balance his academic and musical passions.

Further educational pursuits took him to the United States, where he explored Western classical music and continued to nurture his musical talents. Returning to Karachi in 1998, he crossed paths with Kami, a prominent music producer, who recognized Nabeel's talent and encouraged him to pursue a professional music career in Pakistan.

Nabeel's collaboration with Kami led to various musical projects, solidifying his reputation as a gifted musician. He also recorded guitars for Junaid Jamshed's album, "Dil Ki Baat," marking a departure from his rock roots.

His partnership with vocalist Farooq led to the formation of 'Raag,' and the two quickly found musical synergy. Their collaboration ultimately birthed the band "Aaroh."
Aaroh entered 2002’s inaugural Pepsi's Battle of the Bands competition, emerging as winners after a thrilling showdown with Entity Paradigm.

The release of Aaroh's debut album, "Sawaal," in 2003, propelled them to stardom, selling over a million copies nationwide. Nabeel's journey is a testament to his remarkable musical talents, determination, and unwavering passion for music. Today, he resides in Dubai, balancing a successful career in IT with his musical pursuits under the name 'Nabeel Nihal Project.' His story continues to inspire the Pakistani music scene.

Follow Nabeel:
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nerve9ine
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2iH97JjzJTPVJb9diDqUqk?si=W4sVJwyVQL6dxxW55zCW7Q
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/nabeel-nihal-chishty/1594044202
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nnchishty
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nabeelnihalchishty/

Follow Aaroh:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0FkdHz5RBdvLUTBf97WRSo?si=IoXKi7U1Q3OkuV-keitwNw
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/aaroh/252937943
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aarohofficial4752
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AarohOfficial/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aarohofficial/

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A for Aleph is a unique creative collaborative space and initiative based in Karachi, Pakistan, that is focused on the patronage and empowerment of the arts and foster the growth of independent contemporary artists from across the region in order to heal, evolve and expand our collective consciousness, the Aleph.

More here: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

In this episode of Aleph Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Schumaila Rehmat Hussain, an inspiring Dubai-based singer and composer, known for her deep voice and haunting melodies. Schumaila has enriched several film soundtracks, with notable works in films like "Manto" and "Azad".

Schumaila shares insights from her musical journey, her upcoming album, her creative process at her Grey Note Studio in Dubai, and her passion for bridging cultural gaps through music.

While pursuing fine arts and establishing a career as a painter, she also developed her vocal skills under the esteemed tutelage of Ustad Fateh Ali Khan. Between 2004 and 2007, she participated in the US-UN cultural connect programs with vocal legend Mary Wilson, marking the beginning of her vocal training journey.

Schumaila's entry into the mainstream music scene came in 2010 with the track "Nain Larey," followed by a series of singles that showcased her versatility in styles ranging from jazz to pop. Her career is distinguished by her work on soundtracks for various dramas and films, with her first album, "Jani," released in 2021 as a tribute to poet Jaun Elia, and "Gul Mohar Se" following in 2023.

Currently, she is working on her next album, "Dharkan Ke Paar," and continues to contribute significantly to TV and film music, composing for projects like "Senti Aur Mental" and series on Zee5. Her upcoming projects include works with directors such as Kashif Nisar for "Teen Tara" and "Dil Wali Galli."

A for Aleph is a unique creative collaborative space and initiative based in Karachi, Pakistan, that is focused on the patronage and empowerment of the arts and foster the growth of independent contemporary artists from across the region in order to heal, evolve and expand our collective consciousness, the Aleph.

More here: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

The momentous 50th episode of the A for Aleph Podcast celebrates and honours the esteemed luminary of Pakistani rock music. 

Asad Ahmed, a virtuoso guitarist and a colossus within the industry, graces the podcast with his august presence. Far from a mere performer, Asad emerges as a polymathic creative dynamo, distinguished in his roles as a producer-engineer, composer, and the searing guitarist of the legendary rock ensemble, Karavan.

A connoisseur of musical apparatus and a seasoned virtuoso in his craft, Asad's collaborative narrative is interwoven with the threads of some of the most illustrious names in Pakistani musical history. From Rahat Fateh Ali Khan to Junoon, from Vital Signs to Sajjad Ali, and from Ali Zafar to Najam Sheraz, these luminaries stand as but a fraction of those who have shared the stage with him.

Asad's odyssey commenced in 1987 with The Barbarians, heralding the onset of an extraordinary voyage. Across subsequent decades, he emerged as a linchpin within various musical ensembles that left an indelible imprint on the Pakistani musical panorama – from The Milestones to Awaz, culminating in the iconic Karavan. His illustrious career spanning four decades serves as an enduring testament to his pervasive influence upon the rock and pop milieu.

Renowned for his scintillating live performances, Asad's guitar solos have attained legendary status. His remarkable versatility allows him to traverse diverse musical genres with effortless finesse, ensnaring audiences with his consummate mastery. He stands as a catalyst in the propagation and elevation of rock music within the Pakistani cultural tapestry.

Beyond his own studio oeuvre, Asad has engaged in extensive collaborations with Rohail Hyatt on the esteemed Coke Studio Sessions, thereby solidifying his stature as a preeminent figure within Pakistani musical circles.

Presently, Asad adorns yet another mantle – that of an A&R Manager at EMI. Simultaneously, he nears the culmination of his highly anticipated solo opus, aptly titled "The Final Sessions." This forthcoming release is poised to epitomize the zenith of his illustrious career, offering a final flourish from a veritable legend.

Currently, Asad is working with EMI as an A&R Manager and finishing his solo album, 'The Final Sessions'.

FOLLOW ASAD AHMED:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3rcj8ahO7nnrpm9L5E92K9?si=sTSf0aPFQlq69bjWk3zc4Q
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aahmedoffical
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asadahmedofficial/  
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asadahmedofficial/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@asadahmedofficial
Wiki: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asad_Ahmed

FOLLOW KARAVAN: 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4zVY7gKoJMtjb09HRcerEb?si=ngAscrbsTpSmh1vDhLiC4A
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/karavan/1525032604
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIWu4qmQF3q8m1G3FyeNQ6Q

FOLLOW A FOR ALEPH:
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A for Aleph is a unique creative collaborative space and initiative based in Karachi, Pakistan, that is focused on the patronage and empowerment of the arts and foster the growth of independent contemporary artists from across the region in order to heal, evolve and expand our collective consciousness, the Aleph.

More here: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

In this special episode of the Aleph Podcast, we delved into the world of Schehzad Mughal—a virtuoso whose talents span across singing, songwriting, guitar playing, composing, and acting, making him a standout figure in the Pakistani music scene. Born in 1965, Schehzad's musical voyage truly began to gather momentum in the late '80s, but it is his solo career that has etched his name into the hearts of music aficionados.

Schehzad Mughal has played an active part in the Pakistani music industry since 1987 when his band Final Cut was making waves as the pioneering heavy rock band of Karachi. Originally starting as a guitar player, Schehzad made up one-half of the two-pronged lead guitar lineup in Final Cut alongside Rizwan Khan. In the early 90’s he joined the band Arsh as their lead vocalist, with guitar extraordinaire Adnan Afaq they released an album ‘Saraab’ in ’93. These bands were just the prelude to a remarkable solo journey that would see him emerge as a beacon of musical innovation and expression. 

His debut solo album, 'Bhoolay Na Kabhi,' was a treasure trove of hits that resonated deeply with listeners, featuring classics such as, ‘Bhoolay Na Kabhi’ and 'Yeh Tou Phir Bas'. These songs not only showcased his versatility as a musician but also his profound ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level. His second album 'Jhoom Lay' featured his biggest hit ‘Bus Yunhi,’ this song stands out as a testament to his craft. Notably, the music video for this song is recognized as Pakistan's first video to be shot in a single take, employing slow-motion and real-time synchronization techniques. This creative approach to video production made it a subject of considerable attention and discussion. Combined with Schehzad's melodic brilliance, sweet melody, and lyrical depth, which made it an iconic song that transcends time, cherished by fans new and old alike. His album was released through Indus Music Records in 2002, which further solidified Schehzad's place in the industry, introducing fans to new anthems, and reaffirming his status as a musical virtuoso. 

Beyond his albums, Schehzad's forays into acting and his contributions as a session artist with Arid Zone & Aaroh, including his time at VCI records as an A&R director and his works as a composer for TV scores highlight the breadth of his artistic talents, showcasing his ability to excel across multiple creative domains.

Currently, Schehzad Mughal is working on his eagerly anticipated new album. His journey from a band member to a celebrated solo artist exemplifies a path of continual growth and exploration.

FOLLOW SCHEHZAD MUGHAL:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schehzadmughulofficial/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schehzadmughul

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Produced by A for Aleph

© ℗ 2024 A for Aleph Podcasts

A for Aleph is a unique creative collaborative space and initiative based in Karachi, Pakistan, that is focused on the patronage and empowerment of the arts and foster the growth of independent contemporary artists from across the region in order to heal, evolve and expand our collective consciousness, the Aleph.

More here: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

In this Episode of Aleph Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting the multitalented Faraz Waqar Haider, also known as Faraz Haider. He was the lead singer of the band "Andher".

In 2010, he began his solo career in music and released his debut album 'Andher' followed by 'Naya Jahan' in 2014. His latest album 'Playroom' came out in 2021 which is heavily influenced by industrial rock. 

Apart from music, Faraz has worked on several films including 'Conflict' for which he composed music. He directed a short film called 'Orphic' which was his first attempt as a filmmaker. Faraz has made cameos in films like 'Project Ghazi' and 'Sentinel Jet'. 

Currently, Faraz is working on a feature film, also called 'Playroom', loosely based on his music album of the same name. 

FOLLOW FARAZ HAIDER:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farazhaiderofficial/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/farazhaidermusic

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7bNTWkYA691Q6dF5Ru86Zi

FOLLOW A FOR ALEPH:

Bandcamp: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

Instagram: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

Facebook: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

Twitter: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

YouTube: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

Buy Merchandise: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

A for Aleph is a unique creative collaborative space and initiative based in Karachi, Pakistan, that is focused on the patronage and empowerment of the arts and foster the growth of independent contemporary artists from across the region in order to heal, evolve and expand our collective consciousness, the Aleph.

More here: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

In this Episode of Aleph Podcast, we had the opportunity to trace back time with Rizwan Khan - Lead guitarist from the band FINAL CUT, the leading band in Karachi’s underground scene in the late 80’s. 

Rizwan was considered to be one of the best guitar players in the local circuit of Karachi and was at the forefront of the musical renaissance in Pakistan - Rizwan has worked on known tracks such as 'Mein Chaldia' & 'Dastaan' alongside his band members Schehzad Mughal and Azam Riffat. They first appeared on television in 1989, rising to fame. 

Following the breakup of Final Cut, Rizwan  worked as a session player and producer for several years in Karachi, before moving to the US in the late 90’s. 

Follow Rizwan Khan: 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Riz-Khan/pfbid035j6GETDR4bYuY3PG6Z4jCBs5QsVTJYbkiKRRhaeQgquHrhc2ZAiPLJsUGQXqyUwbl/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rijiboy

Follow A for Aleph: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

A for Aleph is a unique creative collaborative space and initiative based in Karachi, Pakistan, that is focused on the patronage and empowerment of the arts and foster the growth of independent contemporary artists from across the region in order to heal, evolve and expand our collective consciousness, the Aleph.

More here: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

In this episode of the Aleph Podcast, A For Aleph Founder Umair Dar sits down with Music Composer/Producer, Ahsan Bari. Bari is considered a mainstay in the musical zeitgeist for his unorthodox and contemporary style of music writing, which can be seen through the work of the ensemble he founded "Sounds Of Kolachi".

Join us as we explore the journey that has led to Ahsan Bari becoming a name recognized in the music scene both mainstream and  avante-garde.

FOLLOW AHSAN BARI:
Instagram: ahsanbari
Facebook: AhsanBariMusic
Sounds of Kolachi: soundsofkolachi

FOLLOW A FOR ALEPH:
Bandcamp: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
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Facebook: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
Twitter: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
YouTube: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
Buy Merchandise: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph

A for Aleph is a unique creative collaborative space and initiative based in Karachi, Pakistan, that is focused on the patronage and empowerment of the arts and foster the growth of independent contemporary artists from across the region in order to heal, evolve and expand our collective consciousness, the Aleph.

More here: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

In this episode of the Aleph Podcast, A For Aleph Founder Umair Dar is in conversation with singer and song writer Ahmed Zawar, from the Karachi indie rock band, E-Sharp.

E-Sharp were the finalists of Pepsi Battle of The Bands (2019) with two nominations on The Lux Style Awards, With Ahmed Zawar as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitar player. Notably, E-Sharp are the only Pakistani band to have produced an album with as many as 21 songs.
Ahmed is also founder of Funkaarpur - a recording studio and creative space for musicians and artists. Being inspired by The Beatles and western classic pop rock, he has been in the music industry for over 15 years and now is working as an Associate Director at Sony Music Entertainment, Middle East.

FOLLOW AHMED ZAWAR:
Instagram: theahmedzawar
Facebook: ahmedzawar
Twitter: sahmedzawar
YouTube: @ahmedzawar111

FOLLOW E-SHARP:
Instagram: musicofesharp
Facebook: esharpism
YouTube: ESharp

FOLLOW A FOR ALEPH:
Bandcamp: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
Instagram: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
Facebook: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
Twitter: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
YouTube: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
Buy Merchandise: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph

A for Aleph is a unique creative collaborative space and initiative based in Karachi, Pakistan, that is focused on the patronage and empowerment of the arts and foster the growth of independent contemporary artists from across the region in order to heal, evolve and expand our collective consciousness, the Aleph.

More here: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

In this episode of the Aleph Podcast, A For Aleph Founder Umair Dar had the pleasure of inviting national sensation, songwriter and singer, Asfar Hussain from the band “Bayaan”. Asfar shot into the public eye after appearing in the first season of Nescafé Basement, 2012.

The conversation is about Asfar’s journey from Chitral into the Pakistani music industry starting from his childhood to what he is doing currently. Umair Dar gets into the details of Asfar’s musical endeavors, inspirations, achievements and future plans.

Growing up in the picturesque mountains of Chitral, where folk music and story telling through poetry is deeply rooted in the culture, Asfar spent his childhood observing his family friends and relatives singing the verses of his poet father in the musical get-togethers - Mehfils. Meanwhile, his elder brother played the Chitrali sitar. Asfar has been singing since he was in the 7th grade. He took the centre stage for the first time during his college days. While auditioning at his college, NCA for a show, the producer Zulfiqar Khan discovered him in 2012.

Asfar Hussain is the vocalist of the band ‘Bayaan’. The band formed after its members met in the music reality show, Nescafé basement. However, the band really struck stardom after winning the Pakistani music competition TV series ‘Pepsi Battle of the Bands’ (2018). It was Asfar Hussain who came up with the name Bayaan, which translates into a narrative. The name perfectly exhibited the band’s ideology of expressing the experiences and emotions in relation to different life situations.

In 2022, in the Pakistani musical TV show ‘Coke Studio,’ Asfar collaborated with the Brooklyn-based Pakistani vocalist Arooj Aftab to voice the song “Mehram.”

FOLLOW ASFAR HUSSAIN:
Instagram: asfarhussainofficial
Facebook: asfarhussainofficial

FOLLOW BAYAAN:
Bandcamp: https://bayaan.bandcamp.com
Instagram: bayaanofficial
Facebook: BayaanOfficial
YouTube: @BayaanOfficial

FOLLOW A FOR ALEPH:
Bandcamp: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
Instagram: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
Facebook: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
Twitter: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
YouTube: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph
Buy Merchandise: https://li.sten.to/aforaleph

A for Aleph is a unique creative collaborative space and initiative based in Karachi, Pakistan, that is focused on the patronage and empowerment of the arts and foster the growth of independent contemporary artists from across the region in order to heal, evolve and expand our collective consciousness, the Aleph.

More here: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph

In this episode of the Aleph Podcast, A For Aleph Founder Umair Dar is in conversation with Irfan Ali Taj. The conversation is about Irfan’s journey into the music industry starting from his childhood to what he is doing currently. Umair Dar gets into the details of Irfan’s musical endeavors, inspirations, achievements and how it’s been for him working on different projects recently.

Irfan Ali Taj is a musical story teller. A Singer, Songwriter, Composer, Producer and a multi-instrumentalist from Chitral. A culturally rich and diverse district of KPK in Hindukush in the North of Pakistan. He plays the Rebab or Rubab, this instrument independently spread via the Islamic trading routes over much of North Africa, Middle-east and Europe. Irfan’s music derives from rich cultural sounds of Chitral and modern sounds of the city. His work is mostly written in Khowar (کهووار), also known as Chitrali, an Indo-Aryan language of the Dardic group spoken in northern Pakistan. ‘Kho' means the people of Chitral, "War" means language. The core of his artistic experiments lies in the fusion of these two styles of music, bringing the peaceful music of the north to the world.

For the last 7 years Irfan has been making original music in Khuwaar (native language of Chitral) as well as in Urdu and Persian to entertain, educate and create awareness through his art. Irfan not only seeks to promote the poetry and music of the mountains but also the folk instruments and the local culture. His music has pioneered and paved the path for contemporary art forms in Chitral and gave a new direction to the music of the Pakistani north. His work so far has been recognized all over the world by people like Micheal League from Snarky Puppy and through the support of numerous international patrons Irfan has also been featured in a BBC editorial and recognized in South Asia Magazine. Irfan’s latest album Mahal, which was released almost a year ago is a collaboration of northern folk, jazz and blues music in the mainstream Pakistan music scene. The sound, instruments and language used in this album are original, experimental and contemporary.

Irfan has successfully established his own new sound with fresh tunes and unique blend of folk and modern instruments. His work has been vital in giving a new direction to folk music of Northern Pakistan and many of the young artists takes inspiration from his work and craft. His music takes inspiration from sounds of Chitral and his exposure of the city after moving to Karachi. His album 'Mahal' featuring Anas Alam Khan & Aziz Kazi, takes you on a musical & cultural journey of Pakistan with local folk instruments like the Rubab & Chitrali Sitar fused with modern instruments like the drums, bass, guitars to preserve the ancient language Khowar spoken in the northern region of Pakistan.

Irfan is recently working on a new venture ‘Intimately Unplugged’ where he calls different musicians from all over Pakistan to interact with their audience and give them an experience of most intimate ways with a single instrument but full of emotions and purity. He is also curating ‘The Record Rivayat’ a unique session designed to promote and perverse the regional and folk music.

FOLLOW IRFAN ALI TAJ:

• Be a patron of Irfan’s Art: irfanalitaj
• Bandcamp: irfanalitaj.bandcamp.com
• YouTube: irfanalitaj
• Instagram: irfanalitajmusic
• Facebook: irfanalitajmusic
• Twitter: irfanalitaj
• Buy or Stream 'Mahal': li.sten.to/mahal

FOLLOW A FOR ALEPH:

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A for Aleph is a unique creative collaborative space and initiative based in Karachi, Pakistan, that is focused on the patronage and empowerment of the arts and foster the growth of independent contemporary artists from across the region in order to heal, evolve and expand our collective consciousness, the Aleph.

More here: https://linktr.ee/aforaleph