Navigating life’s highs and lows, Erhaan Ahmad ‘s album weaves tales that resonate universally. Let’s explore.
There’s an undeniable charm in an album that captures the ebb and flow of life, reflecting its highs and lows. It’s a stroke of luck for a musician to infuse these intricate elements into their music, making it resonate with listeners.
It doesn’t matter where you’re from or where you’re headed – there are certain truths and stories that bind us all together.
Born in Karachi, Pakistan, this artist grew up in the midst of a bustling and chaotic city. The dissonance and commotion around him took years to reveal their intriguing outcomes.
Leaving Pakistan at 18, Erhaan pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and Russian in the US, even spending time on an exchange program in Moscow. After a year in Ireland, he found his place in Berlin, dedicating himself fully to music.
The album begins with “16.12.14,” a deeply introspective track. Lyrically, the opening track shines with lines like “states of bliss or states of death,” resonating with indie rock’s introspective charm.
The album explores the dynamics of give-and-take, from the beautiful and balanced to the exploitative and greedy. It delves into puzzling choices, like the 2014 attack on a Pakistani school by terrorists who believed it would lead them to heaven (explored in “16.12.14”). Life, as portrayed, involves a dance of sacrifices and gains, often blurring the lines between right and wrong.
“Flower Kopia” adds a touch of psych rock without going overboard. It speaks of love’s scars, sweetness, and the complex mix of emotions that love brings. Erhaan’s lyrics delve into the sensory experience – the scents, the overwhelming feelings.
“The Trees” pays homage to nature in a dreamy fashion, a journey from the magical start of life to the chaotic realities of existence. Electronic beats are woven in, representing the digital life we lead, juxtaposed with the serenity of the natural world.
“Bumbling Bee,” featuring Louis Jullien, stands out, portraying life’s earthy facets. With an emotive yearning tone, it holds modern grooves, and a bluesy vibe, the lyrics weave a narrative akin to timeless classics.
“Scylla” showcases the artist’s rock prowess, symbolising life’s challenges and bruises. This track parallels the mythical sea monster’s perilous presence and mirrors life’s unpredictability.
The album concludes with “Devil Deal,” pondering the ongoing conflict between time and money. It raises questions about where time is truly best spent.
“Kicking the can” embraces an inner punk spirit, narrating the squandering of time. While rooted in alt-rock, the track exudes punk attitude, reflecting the rebellious side in all of us.
It’s a fitting finish for an album that guides us through life’s journey, the ups and downs, and inspires us to keep moving forward, one step at a time, making life uniquely our own.
