STUDIO 58

Studio58, a band that has been around for only a few years, is well-loved by young urbanites. With their eclectic compositions and popular tracks like “Jol Shopno” and “Lal Golapi”, the band has secured a place in the burgeoning music scene. The band's present lineup stands Arafat Mohsin (vocal & guitar); Arafat Kirty (guitar and harmoniser); Barky (drums and percussion) and Fazle Rafi (bass and harmoniser). In a recent conversation Studio58 told us about their journey, inspiration and aspirations. Excerpts:  

How did the band come together?

Kirty: Initially, it was a 'bedroom band' since Studio58 is a brainchild of me and my brother Mohsin. Then I went abroad for studies and Mohsin started doing jingles for TV commercials. Mohsin was working on a mixed album that later turned into “Bhalobashi Tai” – for which the band got vocal Palbasha Siddique on board. I returned to Dhaka and we brought out another album. We were then joined by Barky and Rafi, the youngest member of the band.  

What genre of music do you follow?

Mohsin: Studio 58 refuses to be confined to any genre; our music is eclectic and covers country, rock, mellow rock, electronica and other genres as well. Our music is influenced by the playlists of the members, and that helps building chemistry in the band.

Who are the influences of the band?

Mohsin: Studio 58's songs are tremendously influenced by Arnob and the band Bangla in Bangladesh.

Barky: The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Coldplay, Radiohead, Jason Mraz, Ed Sheeran, Nirvana and Pearl Jam have also influences on our music.

What makes Studio58 stand out?

Kirty: Studio58's lyrics are thoughtful and different from stereotypes. For example, “Jol Shopno” is considered a romantic song, but romance is not the theme of the song. Mohsin usually writes for the band, but Razib Ashraf has also written for them.

Rafi: Studio 58 caters to the uber-social netizens who have a good taste of music.

What was the turning point in your career?

Kirty: “Jol Shopno” was a big hit but “Lal Golapi” is the most popular track that brought us to a large audience base. It is also our most played song. “Lal Golapi” was parody project that was sung by Rizvi. Though our intention was not to release the track, but it was used in a tele-film. A new sequence was added to the telefilm to fit the song in. The song is originally sung by Sharifuddin but Studio58 popularised it through their quirky composition.

Tell us about your latest album?

Mohsin: Studio58's latest album “#3” features 10 tracks and one bonus track “Moyna” that was used in a TV commercial. The album has been released on Qinetic Music instead of local audio market since it helps reduce piracy. It has received good response from listeners both home and abroad.

What's next?

Rafi: Our hearts remain with music. Music allows us freedom and lets us think freely. We look to focus on songs which people can relate to.

Kirty: The band has plans to enter the Indian market through doing music for Indian Bangla films.

Barky: We will continue to make music; we believe it's our job as musicians to produce 'food for the soul'.