"Zeheen Ahmed will live forever through us" - Mechanix
“Everyone has a Zeheen in their life,” the conversation started rather abruptly as Tridib put across a strong message, just like Mechanix did with their latest release, 'Niyoti'. “We haven't just lost a bandmate; in fact, he was more than a brother to me.” The initially grim faces of the band members quickly turned resolute as Riaz added, “We dedicated 'Niyoti' to him, and let it be an inspiration and a reminder to people that no matter in what situation they might be, there is always someone who cares. One should never give up hope.”
Mechanix was one of the first bands in Bangladesh to introduce true heavy metal to the scene, alongside Powersurge in the cult hit programme DRockstars a decade ago. They kept growing in popularity among the youth, while guitarist Zeheen Ahmed established himself as one of the most skilled young guitarists of his generation when he was playing for the band. Unfortunately, Zeheen passed away on July 22, 2017, reminding the world that depression is real; capable of ruining the lives of even the strongest of contenders. He was the son of prominent musician and Miles' keyboardist, Manam Ahmed. “When Zeheen bhai played on stage, you knew it was him. His flow and style was unmatched,” says Shafat, who carries the torch now, alongside Shuvro. The two young guitarists have kept the flames alive, putting on clinical performances on stage which Zeheen himself would have been proud of.
The band is now working on their second studio album after Oporajeyo, which was released in 2011. “We had previously composed 5 new originals, but none of them will make it to the new album,” says Tridib. “We feel now, that the songs do not relate to our theme.”
From being an underground band for a very niche musical audience, Mechanix now continues its rampant march towards mainstream acceptance. Heavy metal is now an extremely popular genre among the youth not only in Dhaka, but in many other districts as well. “When we started off, a lot of people panned us for trying to do something different,” says Riaz. “They thought this was the music for urban rebels only. Funnily enough, there are more metal fans outside Dhaka, even in remote areas in the country.”
When asked if the band has any message to convey to the readers, Tridib spoke on behalf of Mechanix: “Always be positive, help others and listen to your own soul. Zeheen Ahmed will live forever through us, and the amazing work that he has left us will continue to inspire young musicians to take up an electric guitar and rock.”
Current Members
Aftabuzzaman Tridib | Vocals
Salek Ahmed Siddique | Bass
Rayhan Islam Shuvro | Guitar
Shafat Ahmed Chowdhury | Guitar
Sheikh M. Reaz | Drums