On a quiet autumn evening, we visited Arnob’s studio, Kolorob, where he shared reflections on his musical career, insights into his creative journey in art, and his upcoming projects.
The iconic rock-metal band Warfaze has triumphantly marked 40 years in the music industry as of June 5 this year. To commemorate this remarkable journey, the band is determined to keep their legacy alive. With a focus on both domestic and international concerts, they are also planning to release new albums and souvenirs. In honour of their four-decade milestone, the band is gearing up for an array of lively celebrations. The festivities will kick off with a highly anticipated tour across the United States, set to begin this September.
Warfaze, one of the most celebrated bands in Bangladesh, turns 40 years old today. With albums, compositions, awards and several hits to their name, the band has contributed much to the music industry in Bangladesh. They have also played a vital role– through their melodies and lyrics– in keeping the Bengali language alive, thriving and evolving, over several generations and in countries all over the world, where Bengalis live and communicate accordingly.
Nine months ago, the Sunamganj deputy commissioner promised the homeless Hamida Banu a shelter project house in Sunamganj. However, despite their assurance, the 48-year-old folk musician still finds herself without a place to call home as the uncertainty of whether she will ever receive it looms over her like an empty roof.
I would argue it is inadequate to develop an oversimplified criticism of Coke Studio Bangla.
The musician is renowned for his exceptional lyricism and musical arrangements and has been a stalwart in the Bengali music scene for decades. Amidst his bustling studio life, he finds solace in the tranquillity of Shantiniketan, where his musical journey began as a disciple.
"Ma Lo Ma" delves into the profound realisation that life's journey is akin to navigating through the dualities of adulting and nostalgia. It encapsulates the introspective query that often arises with age: "What am I doing here?" Yet, within this existential questioning lies the potential for a beautiful transformation—a self-acceptance that allows individuals to flourish even amidst life's most challenging seasons.
It has been a couple of weeks at least since the Bangla New Year celebrations, which we lovingly refer to as Noboborsho. However, Coke Studio Bangla’s “Tati” is still dominating playlists. ‘Taanti’, or in this case “Tati”, refers to the craftsperson or the creator of fabrics, who works with the material called taant – depicting motifs, colourful borders, and softness to touch. Especially in this heat, a taant saree or a fatua is always a welcome addition to an average Bangladeshi wardrobe, allowing one to breathe easy and at the same time, look trendy.
His rendition of "Shada Shada Kala Kala" marked a turning point, garnering widespread acclaim and affirming his belief that Bangladeshis would embrace him as one of their own if he pursued Bangla music wholeheartedly.
Coke Studio Bangla has kicked off Season 3 with the release of its first song, showcasing a rich blend of musical talent and cultural heritage. The inaugural song, titled "Tati," pays homage to the traditional artistry of Jamdani and the power of weaving and storytelling.
The upcoming season of Coke Studio Bangla will feature a repertoire of 11 new songs, showcasing an eclectic mix of artistes from diverse backgrounds and presenting a myriad of Bangla music genres. Continuing the tradition set by the previous seasons, Shayan Chowdhury Arnob assumes the role of music curator for season 3, alongside fellow music producers such as Pritom Hasan, Emon Chowdhury, Shuvendu Das Shuvo, and others.
Director Adnan Al Rajeev, also the owner of Runout Films, is all set to helm the next and third instalment of Coke Studio Bangla as confirmed by himself via his official Facebook handle. The filmmaker further added that DotBirth will be taking on the role of its agency.
The Language Movement of 1952 is the result of our country’s fight to identify as a liberated nation. The present-day economy and culture of Bangladesh are also a consequence of the independence that our predecessors strived for. Our language transcends its role as a mere communication tool; it stands as an integral component of our rich history. As Bangladesh commemorates International Mother Language Day, the reverberations of its diverse linguistic heritage resonate far beyond its borders, underscoring its enduring significance on a global scale.
Coke Studio Bangla has launched a new video song featuring eminent poet Kazi Nazrul Islam’s “Karar Oi Louho Kabat", in its original tune sung by young students from numerous educational institutions of the country, to commemorate the 53rd Victory Day.
Arnob's Coke Studio journey from "Dilaram" to "Nodir Kul" showcases his captivating compositions, maintaining a spellbinding connection with fans throughout his role as the program coordinator for the popular franchise.
The event, featuring an array of popular bands and artistes coming together to celebrate a musical night, will be unveiled for the audience at the Army Stadium. The organisers have packed numerous surprises this year.
The digital entertainment platform Toffee will broadcast two concerts live in Dhaka on November 10. “Coke Studio Bangla Live 2.0” will be streamed live from Bangladesh Army Stadium' at 3 pm. This will enable music enthusiasts nationwide to enjoy the captivating performances of popular artistes from Coke Studio Bangla.
The concert, headlined by Meghdol, will also feature several other musicians from Coke Studio Bangla at the Hard Rock Cafe in Kolkata on November 18.
Coke Studio Bangla is gearing up for the second edition of its electrifying concert “Coke Studio Bangla Live” on November 10, 2023. From the energetic notes of "Nasek Nasek" to the enchanting rhythms of "Kotha Koiyo Na", this event promises to mesmerise audiences with stunning performances by Coke Studio Bangla artistes.