Telling tales of vulnerability - A conversation with Aseer Arman

In a society where vulnerability is shunned and sensitivity is considered inept for youths, Aseer Arman brings out tales of love, life and pain in a way that celebrates everything beautiful and ugly about coming of age.

 The Daily Star sits down to talk to him about his musical philosophy, works and more.

How would you describe your musical journey?

I studied filmmaking and photography and over time, I've realized that songs too can be a visual medium. I don't remember the first song I wrote or anything. But I'd say my childhood played a pivotal role in my career path. I grew up listening to soul touching Qawaali, and I have family members who are Qawaal. I was part of a joint family, and through my cousins, I was introduced to world music, from Mehdi Hassan to Michael Jackson. This later made me thoughtful about musical diversity. My father writes rhymes, poems and songs and holds a reputable position in the poetry circle of Chittagong. His works have always inspired me, and the fact that he still writes gives me courage.

 We see a reflection of urban, youth lives in your work. So how would you describe this dichotomy?

(Laughs) I tell the stories of people of my age, of everything I see around me and I think it's natural. Since city dwellers are in front of me, my songs tell urban stories. But the moment I enter my room, this city disappears. My instrument starts playing Maijbhandari Qawaali or folk song. I can never sing urban songs alone or in front of my friends. I don't know why! Maybe because my roots are in the village!

To your fans, lyrics are the biggest factor of your songs. Do you stress storytelling in particular?

It's not that I stress storytelling in particular. But say I see a hundred things, and a certain thing has really struck me, created a connection or made me thoughtful. Then I'd go on to think about that and eventually incorporate it into my lyrics. Just like dreams, lyrics portray what one thinks about.

"Eka beche thakte shikho priyo" has received immense love and popularity. What is the story behind this song?

(laughs) It is difficult to explain the stories as such. But in this particular case, many people misunderstood the lyrics. I didn't encourage you to isolate yourself from everyone. The idea was to celebrate solitude. In life, it is important to take things slowly and take care of yourself. In our age, we might feel remorse for feeling rejected but we should stay away from such thoughts. 

What are you working on currently?

I'm working on some experimental songs right now. Personally, I prefer folk music and lately, plus I haven't had the time to practice.  I'm more of an instrumentalist than a singer. Singing is a medium of humans, but playing is in fact a part of nature. So recently I'm practicing multiple styles of playing instruments. Also, along with my friends, I'm building a musical platform called "Gaan Niyechhe Chile".

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