The renowned Bangladeshi group “Miles”, famous for shaping eras of rock and pop music, is gearing up for a tour in Australia this month, filled with sentiment and memories. The concerts will pay homage to the late Shafin Ahmed, a foundational member of the band.
During this tour, fans will not only witness “Miles” performing live but also encounter Shafin’s essence through an LED display, presenting his image while his voice resonates through the sound system, harmonizing with the band’s live performance. These shows are anticipated to stir profound emotions among followers, reviving Shafin’s legacy vividly.
The band is scheduled to depart for Australia on October 21, with performances lined up in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. Each show will feature at least one special song dedicated in memory of Shafin Ahmed.
In anticipation of the tour, Hamin Ahmed, the frontman of “Miles,” expressed, “Shafin was an integral part of Miles. His vocal prowess and charisma on stage infused the band with a distinct energy. Throughout this tour, we will commemorate him in every concert. Through a unique presentation, we aim to make the audience feel his presence among us.”
He further remarked, “Imagining Miles without Shafin is challenging. Our objective is to uphold his heritage and allow the audience to relive his essence.”
For Bangladeshi expatriates, “Miles” concerts serve as more than just musical gatherings – they evoke a sense of homecoming with cherished memories. Tracks like “Phiriye Dao”, “Dhiki Dhiki”, “Chand Tara”, “Piyasi Mon”, “Prothom Premer Moto”, “Pahari Meye”, “Jadu”, “Dorodiya”, “Polashir Prantor”, and “Neela” have long been poignant landmarks for fans globally.
Reflecting on the band’s bond with Australia, Hamin mentioned, “Australia has always exuded warmth and affection. Our performance in Sydney last June garnered an overwhelming response. We strive to illuminate hearts through our music, and we aim to do the same this time around.”
“Miles” was the pioneering Bangladeshi band to undertake extensive international tours, commencing in 1989. “We have staged over 180 concerts overseas,” stated Hamin. “Our international fan base, particularly among expatriates, has continued to expand over the years.”
Established in 1979, “Miles” remains a monumental presence in Bangladesh’s music scene. Across 45 years, their albums – including “Miles” (1982), “A Step Farther” (1986), “Protishruti” (1991), “Prottasha” (1993), “Prottoy” (1996), “Proyash” (1997), “Probaho” (2000), “Protiddhoni” (2006), “Protichchhobi” (2015), and “Proborton” (released in India) – have solidified their position in Bengali rock history.
The current lineup comprises Hamin Ahmed, Manam Ahmed, Syed Ziaur Rahman Turjo, and Iqbal Asif Jewel.