Mousiqa makes it to the Top 12 at Pepsi Battle of the Bands

BY ALI NAQVI –

There could not have been a better start for Mousiqa. Qualifying for the next round, by battling one of the most talented bands ever to appear at Pepsi Battle of the Bands, is more than a dream come true.

Mousiqa hails from the cultural capital of Pakistan, Lahore. The name is derived from ‘Mousiqi’ which means melody or music. The band has all the right ingredients to be successful at the highest level.

The confidence with which the band performed ‘Bindi’ was matched by its melody, rhythm and synchronization between all members. From the first go the song never looked like a live act for audition. It was as perfect as a studio recording. All notes and vocals were falling into place making a mesmerizing melody.

Founded in 2007, the band has four members; Agha Haider Ali on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Waqar Malik on lead guitar, Qasim Masood on bass guitar and Zohaib Naeem on drums.

This year’s competitive Pepsi Battle of the Bands, hosted by Hina Altaf, is genuinely a treat to listen to. The show in its first two episodes has created a lot of stir among music lovers all over the country.

Talking to THE5WS Qasim Masood revealed some details about the band and its journey to the Pepsi Battle of the Bands. He said, “We are basically a bunch of professionals working in our respective fields. We come together to quench our thirst for music. It’s our passion to play music”.

“I cannot explain how happy we are for being among the top 12 bands. We have worked really hard to get to this place. And I believe, apart from years of effort and hard work, the support of our families, friends and fans is the most important factor that encouraged and motivated us to move forward. I am pretty confident that Mousiqa will give its 100 percent in the coming battles.” Qasim added.

The battle has just begun for Mousiqa. The journey will get tougher as the show progresses. The panel of judges comprising of Fawad Khan, Meesha Shafi, Faisal Kapadia and Bilal Maqsood critically analyzes each performance and give their honest comments. At this stage no band can afford to make mistakes.  

This year the format for Season 4 is adjusted to make room for more bands. Previously there were only 7 bands competing for the title. It is a great sign for the Pakistani music that more talent is come out on a stage that matters.

Mousiqa will have to up the ante to take on bands as talented as Seismic Tremors, Skehlaaj, Aarish, Neon, Auj, E-Sharp, Marjaan, Uraan, Black Hour, Star Zone and Jhoot. Let’s hope that these bands will show more character, passion and craziness to produce some electrifying and soul stirring music in the battles to come.