In this episode of the Aleph Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Yousuf Masood a key member of the band Songs of Petrichor. He is an aspiring guitar player and also played bass on his band's music. Yousuf, along with Shaharyar Hamdani and Omair Soomro, forms the trio that creates a unique fusion of 70's prog, 90's grunge, and South Asian classical music. The band's sound is characterized by a nostalgic and melancholic revival, drawing influences from various genres. Yousuf's musical contributions, play a significant role in shaping the band's sound. Yousuf has a strong influence on the band's songwriting process, often switching between instruments for creative exploration during jam sessions.

The band has released several singles thus far from their debut album, showcasing their unique blend of Oriental Grunge and Progressive Rock. 5 of these songs have been co-produced, mixed and mastered by Umair Dar at A for Aleph.

Follow Songs of Petrichor:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2ssYsKPAqsKROsKEdcaumi?si=cir_8_XnSWq8Wa0J0oDJTw
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/songs-of-petrichor/1560094011
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/songsofpetrichor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SongsOfPetrichor/

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

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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 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/

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

Help us continue making great content for listeners everywhere: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2271983/supporters/new

Support the Show.

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."

Support the Show.

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