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
February 5, 2019
FAREWELL, ARUNENDU DAS
Arunendu Das, a pioneer in Bangla alternative songwriting, passed away in London on February 3 at the age of 81. He played an integral part in composing music for Moheener Ghoraguli, in the band's later years.
January 25, 2019
Kaiser Ahmed talks theatre
Kaiser Ahmed was born in Bangladesh, but soon moved to Michigan, USA with his family. He went to Chicago in 2004 to join the theatre community, where he thrived as the founding artistic director of Jackalope Theatre Company. The Daily Star catches up with Kaiser for a brief interview.
January 20, 2019
Rashid Choudhury's tapestry becomes the first Bangladeshi artwork to feature in The Met
Rashid Choudhury (1932-1985) was a second generation artist, sculptor, writer and professor.
January 16, 2019
Embracing your inner geek
Shakib Chowdhury, Gibran Tanwir, Alif Alauddin and Farooq Shams – four friends who had set out on a lighthearted journey of talking about pop culture, have inadvertently started one of the most popular web shows in Bangladesh, Geek Myth.
January 13, 2019
Hasib gears up for a busy year
Muttaque Hasib lives, breathes and eats music. Having been a part of the music industry for over a decade, the passionate musician is going through a career renaissance with all-new projects and upcoming originals. The Daily Star gets in touch with Hasib for a small chat.
January 11, 2019
A Trainwreck in Bangalore
Trainwreck has long been one of the hardest hitters in the underground scene, obtaining a cult-like following with their originals and cover numbers.
December 31, 2018
Did 2018 hit the right notes?
It is hard to argue the fact that 2018 was an eventful year in Bangladeshi music. Whether it be the end of a musical saga, or a stark change in consumption trends, there was a lot that indicated where the future may lie for an industry that is slowly recuperating from the dark days of mass piracy.
December 28, 2018
“My fans are my greatest blessings”
Minar's career has been on an upward trajectory ever since his coming of age with 'Ahare'. The artiste, who possesses an enviably unique and melodious voice, has been one of the most consistent figures in the music industry.
December 27, 2018
Malhaar's melodies beyond borders
Music is not just a form of art, but a philosophy and a way of life for Jogiraj Sikidar. An established artiste of Indian classical music, he recently won the prestigious NRI (Non Resident Indian) of the Year award in the Art & Culture category for his tireless contribution to classical music through his founded Malhaar Centre for Performing Arts. The Daily Star talks to the artiste on his plans on bringing his esteemed foundation to Bangladesh.
December 21, 2018
Rubayat Rehman
Few young artistes are as versatile as Rubayat Rehman, who is proficient in singing, playing various musical instruments and
X