Aunty Disco Project
| Company type | Indie rock band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2006 |
| Headquarters | Karachi , Pakistan |
| Products | Music albums, live performances |
Aunty Disco Project (, occasionally abbreviated as ADP) is an indie rock ensemble originating from Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan, established in 2006. The founding members included Omar Bilal Akhtar (vocals, guitar), Imran Lodhi (bass), Khawer Khan (guitar), and Omar Khalid (drums). As the band progressed, its composition shifted to comprise Akhtar, Lodhi, Khan, and drummer Hamza Qureshi. They earned a reputation as one of Pakistan's leading live performers.
Their rise in the underground music circuit was swift, fueled by dynamic performances and original compositions—an uncommon trait among new local groups. By September 2006, they commenced work on their first album at New Shadab Studios. Their independently released debut, Aunty Disco Project, came out in December 2007, featuring entirely self-written and produced content. The album received critical praise and expanded their visibility alongside mainstream musicians.
After a short break, ADP made a comeback with their third music video titled "Nazar," directed by Umer Adil. This well-funded video garnered extensive mainstream recognition and secured a spot in The Musik's Top 100 videos of 2008. This achievement led to a nomination for "Best Breakthrough Performance" at Pakistan's first-ever MTV Music Awards.
In 2010, the band participated in the third season of Coke Studio, performing their hit single "Sultanat". However, in 2011, ADP declared their disbandment following a farewell concert held on 25 June.
Formation and early period (2006)
Omar Akhtar and Omar Khalid, alongside Afaan Naqvi, took part in Caffeine's Open-Mic Night. Subsequently, in February 2006, Muhammad Fahim Tahir, Khawer Amir Khan, and Yasir Qureshi approached them. Initial jam sessions at Omar Akhtar's residence were unproductive but gradually coalesced into a band featuring Omar Khalid on drums, Yasir Qureshi on darbuka, Imran Lodhi handling bass duties, with Khawer and Omar Akhtar on guitars and vocals.
The band’s name was proposed by Omar Akhtar after brainstorming with Muhammad Fahim Tahir, settling on "Aunty Disco Project." Their debut performance under the name "Eastern Comfort" occurred on 10 March before an audience of five. On 23 March, they triumphed at the Institute of Business Administration's Battle of the Bands in Karachi, outperforming 22 competitors. This victory opened doors to numerous gigs at colleges and eateries across the city. Their spirited live performances paired with original tracks blending indie rock with eastern percussion earned them a dedicated following and solidified their status as a leading underground group. Shortly thereafter, lead guitarist Khawer Khan departed from the band.
On 15 July, they auditioned for MTV Pakistan's MTV Battle of the Bands, but were not selected; the program ultimately did not air. In August, recording sessions for their debut eponymous album began at New Shadab Studios in Karachi. The album was entirely self-composed and produced by the band and included standout songs such as "Sultanat," "Iss Tanhai Ko," and "Nazar."
Challenges faced (2007)
During the summer of 2007, the band developed significantly as live performers, earning recognition by performing alongside prominent artists such as Sajid & Zeeshan, Mizraab, Mauj, and Zeb and Haniya. A pivotal moment came with their appearance at the K-Fest Royal Rodale Show, organized by the local music channel The Musik in Karachi.
On Pakistan's Independence Day, 14 August, Aunty Disco Project took center stage as headliners at the inaugural Shanaakht Festival, sharing the spotlight with the pop duo Zeb and Haniya. That same month saw the release of their debut music video, "Sultanat," directed by lead singer Omar Bilal Akhtar. The video received considerable airplay on both radio and television, followed shortly by their second single and accompanying video, "Iss Tanhai Ko."
In December 2007, the band independently launched their debut album titled Aunty Disco Project, which was available exclusively at live performances and select cafés in Karachi. While it did not achieve commercial success, the album was commended for its innovative distribution strategy and garnered substantial attention through press coverage and online promotion.
Mainstream breakthrough (2008–2009)
February 2008 marked a lineup change when Imran Lodhi departed to continue his education abroad. He was succeeded by Ali Alam—formerly of Ganda Banda and 3-D Cats—who joined as a session bassist for live performances.[1] The band maintained a strong presence in Karachi’s live music scene with notable shows at venues such as the Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture and events like World Music Day, before entering a brief hiatus.
In August, Aunty Disco Project returned with their first high-budget music video for the track "Nazar," directed by Umer Adil.[2] This release marked their comeback to mainstream media after a two-month pause, receiving critical praise and securing positions on local music charts. "Nazar" was subsequently listed among The Musik's Top 100 videos of 2008, broadening their fan base and leading to appearances on Play TV and MTV Pakistan. In November, they performed at the Ego Concert held at Forum Mall alongside Zeb and Haniya, attracting large crowds. By the end of that year, their success with "Nazar" earned them a nomination for 'Best Breakthrough Performance' at the MTV Music Awards.[3]
In February 2009, Aunty Disco Project expanded their reach with a performance at Lahore's Rafi Peer Theatre, marking their first concert outside Karachi.[4] By April, they secured a contract with Two Five Right Artist Management and welcomed Ali Alam as an official full-time member contributing guitars and vocals.[1] Additionally, former Mizraab bassist Rahail Siddiqui joined the lineup. In June, the band delivered an unplugged session for MTV Unplugged,[5] which was released as a live album.
On 16 August, they hosted the Get Your Aunty On! concert at Rangoonwala Auditorium,[6][7] resulting in another live album titled Live at Get Your Aunty On!.[8] They also returned as headliners for the Shaanakht Festival,[9][10] further establishing themselves among Pakistan’s leading live performers.
Work commenced on their sophomore studio album intended to be their first commercially released record following an independently launched debut; however, this project was ultimately abandoned due to challenges within Pakistan’s music industry and insufficient support from record labels.
Ongoing achievements (2010)
In May 2010, Aunty Disco Project was officially announced as part of the lineup for the third season of Coke Studio, sharing the stage with prominent bands such as Noori and Entity Paradigm, along with acclaimed sufi artists including Abida Parveen and Sanam Marvi.[11] The band performed at the Pakistan American Cultural Center in Karachi, Sindh on 2 and 3 July.[12] Their debut on Coke Studio aired on 4 July during the third episode, titled 'Conception', featuring their popular track "Sultanat" from their self-titled album. According to The Express Tribune, although Aunty Disco Project made good use of the house band, the placement of the song amidst powerful vocal performances seemed somewhat mismatched.[13]
On 24 July, critic Saba Imtiaz from The Express Tribune described their performance as somewhat repetitive, questioning the repeated inclusion of "Sultanat".[14] Further commentary on 4 August reiterated this viewpoint, acknowledging "Sultanat" as a solid song but noting it did not quite suit the overall tone of Coke Studio.[15]
On 16 October, through their web blog, Aunty Disco Project announced participation in the Superstars for Flood Relief initiative, unveiling a new single dedicated to those affected by the flood disaster.[16] Subsequently, on 23 October, they released "Hum Na Rahay," the lead single from their forthcoming second studio album. A teaser was broadcast locally and uploaded to their YouTube channel on 1 December. The complete music video, directed by Bilal Khan and Shayan Agha, premiered on 28 December.
Disbandment (2011–2012)
On 19 April 2011, the band performed at Karachi's Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture. On 5 May, via their official blog, Aunty Disco Project announced their decision to dissolve following a final concert scheduled for 25 June 2011. The announcement emphasized that the split was not due to interpersonal conflicts but rather to accommodate personal goals and family responsibilities. While they left open the possibility of future collaborations, they confirmed that the band would formally conclude that summer. Plans were also made to release several recorded tracks, including both previously performed and new material.
Lead vocalist and guitarist Omar Bilal Akhtar disclosed on 10 May his intention to pursue journalism studies at Columbia University, expressing satisfaction with what had been accomplished but uncertainty about continuing in music. Meanwhile, Yasir Qureshi and Ali Alam planned to carry on with their musical endeavors. On 14 May, The Express Tribune reflected on the band's legacy, marking the conclusion of one of Karachi’s most vibrant musical acts.
Aunty Disco Project’s farewell concert titled One Last Time took place at the Pakistan American Cultural Center on 25 June. Their setlist featured covers such as "Baba O'Riley" by The Who, "Rock the Casbah" by The Clash, and "I'm Shipping Up to Boston" by Dropkick Murphys, alongside original compositions like "Nazar," "Kitnay Vaaday," "Hum Na Rahay," "Likhta Nahin Main," and "Dastana-e-Dil." The performance showcased vocal harmonies between Akhtar and Alam and incorporated thematic elements from their latest music video, including a guest appearance by a giant stuffed panda. The concert concluded with renditions of "Sympathy for the Devil" by The Rolling Stones and "We Are the Champions" by Queen.
On 3 September, a short film for their single "Kisi Aur Ka Intezaar Hai" was released, featuring footage from their final show. Directed by Shayan Agha and Bilal Khan—who also directed "Hum Na Rahay"—the single served as a tribute to their supporters.
In early 2012, two previously unreleased singles—"Jaagay Zameen" (released on 3 March) and "Mujhay Sahara Do" (released on 8 March)—were shared via their official Facebook page. Both songs were intended for a second album that ultimately never materialized due to the band's breakup.
Awards and nominations
In 2008, Aunty Disco Project earned a nomination at the MTV Music Video Awards for "Best Breakthrough Performance" with their track "Nazar." To date, the band has not secured any award wins.
Discography
- Studio albums
- Aunty Disco Project (2007)
- Live albums
- MTV Unplugged (2009)
- Live at Get Your Aunty On! (2009)
Band members
- Final lineup
- Omar Bilal Akhtar – lead vocals, lead guitar (2006–2011)
- Yasir Qureshi – darbuka, percussion (2006–2011)
- Ali Alam – vocals, guitars (2009–2011)
- Rahail Siddiqui – bass guitar (2009–2011)
- Giles Goveas – drums (2009–2011)
- Previous members
- Khawer Khan – guitar, backing vocals (2006)
- Imran Khan Lodhi – bass guitar (2006–2008)
- Omar Khalid – drums (2006–2009)
Timeline
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bar:Omair text:"Omair Bilal Akhter" bar:Yasir text:"Yasir Qureshi" bar:Khawer text:"Khawer Khan" bar:Imran text:"Imran Khan Lodhi" bar:Omer text:"Omer Khalid" bar:Ali text:"Ali Alam" bar:Rahail text:"Rahail Siddiqui" bar:Giles text:"Giles Goveas"
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See also
External links
- Official website
- Official blog
- Aunty Disco Project on YouTube
- Aunty Disco Project on Facebook
- Aunty Disco Project on Twitter
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; no text was provided for refs namedADP-number2 - ↑ The Video Retrieved on 12 June 2012.
- ↑ Event Review: MTV Brrr Music Awards 2009 Retrieved on 12 June 2012.
- ↑ ADP: Our first concert in Lahore Retrieved on 12 June 2012.
- ↑ ADP at MTV Pakistan Retrieved on 23 June 2012.
- ↑ ADP's Rangoonwala Concert Retrieved on 12 June 2012
- ↑ The Greatest Endorsement Aunty Disco Project is likely to receive...Ever! Retrieved on 12 June 2012
- ↑ Aunty Disco Project Live in Karachi Retrieved on 14 June 2012
- ↑ Newsline Interview: Omar Bilal Akhtar on Shanaakht Festival Retrieved on 23 June 2012.
- ↑ Shanaakht Festival: Review Retrieved on 23 June 2012.
- ↑ Pakmanzil Lineup of Coke Studio Season 3 (Complete) Retrieved on 16 May 2010.
- ↑ ADP Live at PACC Retrieved on 14 June 2012
- ↑ Soulful Strains Retrieved on 14 June 2012.
- ↑ Hits and misses of Coke Studio Retrieved on 14 June 2012.
- ↑ Coke Studio comes to an end Retrieved on 20 May 2012
- ↑ Aunty Disco Project – Superstars for flood relief Retrieved on 14 June 2012.