Poorly arranged concerts should not be an ‘Aadat’
It is rather telling of the people when the army has to show up because of how people behave at a concert. “They brought an international band to a mall to perform,” said Sakib, who had attended the concert with high hopes. “It was a total joke. Organisers started taking selfies with the band mid-show, while Jal had to ask 20 times for a light to be turned off.”
1m ago
Fatima: Where noble intention trumps flawed execution
Dhrubo Hasan’s “Fatima” is an ambitious undertaking, with the director’s passion clearly visible in the script – the aspects of our Liberation War and how we are all fighting our own inner wars, the torment that women still go through for being a woman, the extent to which a close one’s betrayal could be delusionally overlooked.
5m ago
Canada chants ‘Artcell, Artcell!’ as beloved band celebrates 25 years
On May 5, Toronto’s Hamilton saw what was the largest audience for a band in decades. To everyone’s surprise, it was not a North American band, but a Bangladeshi one, celebrating 25 years of their glorious music on tour.
6m ago
Rock n’ Rhythm 4: Mired in chaos, overcome with emotion
On a day when the rain gods smiled favorably upon the hopes of about ten thousand people, barricades were broken, a stampede nearly ensued, and some logistical issues nearly ruined the experience for those holding general tickets at "Rock N’ Rhythm 4.0" in the capital’s International Convention City Bashundhara. However, for five men who have dedicated their entire lives to music, none of this could dampen the emotional reunion of Black's original lineup.
6m ago
Joy Shahriar: A one-man artistic ecosystem
“I could have bought a very nice phone with the money I bought this guitar with,” said Joy Shahriar in The Daily Star’s canteen, proudly flaunting his baby Taylor guitar. “But I chose this expensive guitar. I don’t have unlimited funds, but I know my priorities.” In a way, this sums up the “Shotti Bolchi” singer’s entire career – a story of passion, strife, and street smarts.
6m ago
Black reunion: A one-off?
Music in Bangladesh was never the same after Black launched “Amar Prithibi” in 2002. Taking off the much harder edge brought in by the rock bands of the ‘90s, it was Black who arguably popularised alternative rock in the country, along with acts like Nemesis and Stentorian.
6m ago
Minar moves forward with music
So, what is the artiste looking for in a partner? “Well, she has to be a good, honest person, and that’s pretty much it.” While we are yet to have found the lucky woman with a lifetime of free passes to Minar’s concerts, here’s to hoping that we can finally write ‘original’ news about his wedding.
8m ago
I’m respectful of Bangladesh’s rich musical heritage: Badshah
In an exclusive interview with The Daily Star, Badshah shared his insights and reflections on his recent trip to Bangladesh, shedding light on his experience and aspirations.
8m ago
December 27, 2019
The Unmaad among us
One of the bands to perform at the phenomenal 20 Years of Artcellism, Unmaad showed why they are considered one of the most promising upcoming bands with their rendition of Bhul Jonmo. The Chittagonians, having recently released their debut album Run to Bahaddarhat, talk to The Daily Star about their insurgence, future plans, and more.
December 26, 2019
A landmark in Bangladeshi music history
8,000 people – let the number sink in. 8,000 people from all over Dhaka and other districts were present at perhaps what can only be described as a phenomenon – the 20-year celebration of the iconic Artcell.
December 23, 2019
Pragata Naoha’s ‘Kaalo’ released
Talented young singer Pragata Naoha released a new music video, titled Kaalo recently, aiming to raise awareness about an issue that is rarely talked about in the country – gender fluidity.
December 13, 2019
The king of television romance
One of the most prolific young directors of our time, Mizanur Rahman Aryan had a great year with hits such as Tumi Amari, Dekha Hobe Ki? and Sublet under his belt. Aryan, who writes the scripts for his projects as well, has often times ventured out of his comfort zone and honed his directorial skills with a vast array of work. The Daily Star presents a candid interview with the king of romantic drama.
December 13, 2019
A VISIT TO INTI INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY & COLLEGES
With over 30 years of educating more than 65,000 graduates until now, INTI International University and Colleges have become one of the most renowned higher education institutes in Malaysia.
December 11, 2019
COMMEMORATING SIX DECADES OF GREATNESS
When I interviewed Junoon for the Dhaka International Folk Fest, the legendary Sufi rockers had asked me,
December 10, 2019
Commemorating six decades of greatness
The juggernauts of the industry are set to celebrate their 40th anniversary on December 24 at International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) Hall 3. Coincidentally, that is the same day Artcell, the biggest rock band of this generation, will celebrate 20 years of their Pothchola. Their concert will take place at ICCB’s Expo Zone.
November 24, 2019
Bangladesh’s stronghold on Filmbazar India
Film Bazaar India, South Asia’s largest film market, has seen unprecedented success for Bangladeshi filmmakers this year. Out of 234 films displayed, 25 films were highlighted as ‘recommended’ films. Among these, four films were Bangladeshi –
November 21, 2019
No Land’s Man
It is, indeed telling when a film is awarded even before it’s pre-production stages. In 2014, No Land’s Man was awarded the Script Development fund in the Motion Picture Association of America and Asia Pacific Screen Awards, while being a part of the Asian Project Market at Busan.
November 17, 2019
The Junoon lives on
It is an honour to be able to interview the biggest names in the Asian music scene. How does it feel to be here in the Dhaka International Folk Festival?
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