By Hasan Faridi
The LOUDEST band in Pakistan is back. And making more noise than ever.
The famous rock band Overload from Lahore, Pakistan, which formed in 2004, has gradually gained popularity through its diverse and awe-inspiring music ever since the beginning. The group has released two albums, one self-titled, released in 2006, and one in 2009 named Pichal Pairee.
Overload now consists of Farhad Humayun on vocals and drums (one of the best known drummers in Pakistan), Sheraz on keyboards and Nasir Sain on the ear-pounding Dhol. Session artists include Farhan Ali on bass, Shahzad Hameed and Haider Hashmi on guitars and Kaala Sain on the Dhol. Meera (Meesha) Shafi is no longer within the line-up.
It might be said, that Meesha has displayed enough of her talent (just look at the Youtube hits for her Coke Studio performances). Nevertheless, its Farhad’s time to shine.
The new song “Batti” is in fact, taken from the former single released by the band named “Dhol Bajay Ga”, which can be found in the Pichal Pairee album.
In both songs, the vocals of Meesha and Farhad sound nearly the same. Musically, the new “Batti” is heavier, filled with a repetitive but funky bassline, more complex guitarwork (not showcased too much in the ex-Batti) and a pounding Dhol. You’d be a fool to criticize the Dhol, so let’s not go there. The “Hey hey hey’s” don’t do justice in addition to the song, but at least they end quick and fuel the adrenaline. The ex-Batti features a whiny solo, but it is now replaced with percussion and what is known as “bottle music”.
The video is spectacular. Special effects, an energetic band presence and a worthy wardrobe. Just look how dashing the Dhol player is! The flashing lighting and groovy colors can create an epileptic fit. This is a word of warning. But what the heck, it’s all worth it.
The new rendition is far more innovative than the predecessor and persuades listeners to turn the volume up. For one, the song is not repetitive like the predecessor, so we’re seeing a brand new-and-improved group. And even though two albums have been released, we can be pretty sure that Overload won’t be hibernating anytime soon. What’s best is that the LOUDEST band in Pakistan has taken to drumming bottles to display their talent.
How long will it take before they smash?
7 replies on “Overload – Batti (KM Single Review)”
nicely written !
Love it! The best of luck to Overload!
Meesha Shafi was the only thing that made Dhol Bajay Ga awesome. It sounds kinda lame and tamed down now.
Do Overload need Meesha back again? What are your opinions?
vocals suck to this!!!! it seems like he is screaming horrible!! there is no overload without Meesha!!
No vocals are awesome!! Farhad’s cover of Gilmore was soo deep! i loved it n he proved hes a great vocalist!! but watever happned to meesha??? darn shes hot 😛
Awesome song!!! LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION all very classy.
Who are these Mascot people? anyone know?
Why are we arguing over Meesha? I guess you people were not in Dubai to witness Overload perform live. Meesha was not missed, neither was their one voice in the crowd that called out for her name. By the way, this song is not about Meesha anyways.
The new outfit is perfect. I didn’t know Farhad had engaged Hyder Hashmi (ex-aaroh guitarist) for live performance in Dubai. I had a big smile on my face when I saw Hyder walk up on stage to hook his guitar up. There is much respect for this guy in Pakistani music. I have attended 2 other shows with their previous guitarist and let me tell you those were nothing like this show in Dubai. Every guitar note was so crisp and well placed. His solo was immaculate. Hyder knew when to play when not to play. Hope to see more of Hyder in Overload.
Their bass player was also good. What was a bigger surprise was Farhad had a new drummer, dont know his name. At first I was a bit confused as to how Farhad would manage the drums and the vocals simultaneously but then the drummer walked on stage for the more challenging songs and it was pretty clear that Overload had a plan.
Sorry people I ended up writing a concert review for overload but I feel so proud when I see Pakistani talent shine.
Anyways, for those of you who criticize bands and musicians just for the sake of criticism, please stop wasting your time. Comments like there is no overload without Meesha or Meesha was better or blah blah blah wont do anyone any good. Lets just wait for more music from both Meesha and Overload and Let’s enjoy their music.
Look at what happened with Junoon, Fuzon, Jal, Aaroh etc. they all split but their music never stopped.
By the way, we all still remember Pappu Sain. Overload replaced him as well. I remember people saying Overload is nothing without Pappu Sain. Well they were wrong. were’nt they. Koi kissi kay baghair khatam nahin hota. I’m sure Meesha will move on and do better music and so will Overload.
Peace out!!!