Popular band Ashes is preparing a major Eid surprise for fans with the simultaneous release of two albums: ‘Bibhrom’, featuring nine tracks and ‘Danahin Pakhi’, featuring eight
Two songs, one from each album, will be released on Chandrat, with the remaining tracks unveiled weekly thereafter. The albums bring together songs created over the past eight to 10 years.
Some of the older tracks have previously been performed at concerts and live events, but this marks their first official album release. In addition, the band will release a new song from another special project alongside the two albums.
Ashes’ frontman and vocalist Junaid Ivan revealed that the two albums reflect significant experimentation in melody and lyrical themes. The central philosophy revolves around the idea of non-material or intangible happiness.
According to Ivan, the songs attempt to capture simple yet profound joys, the sky, rain, sunshine or a shared smile, offering an alternative to today’s highly materialistic lifestyle.
“We live in a time when happiness is often tied to possessions,” he said, adding, “But the most beautiful moments are intangible; watching the sky, enjoying the rain, or seeing someone smile. The songs also explore human existence and the inner conflicts and understandings we have with ourselves.”
Ashes is also planning an unconventional promotional strategy after Eid. In addition to performing songs from the two albums at solo concerts across various districts, the band intends to organise special listening events in scenic locations, including the mountains and the seaside.
“We’re planning listening parties, but with a difference,” Ivan explained. “We want to host two gatherings, one in the mountains and one by the sea, where we will sing together with our listeners. They will also hear the stories behind each song.” Further details remain under wraps, as the band wishes to preserve the element of surprise.
Last year, Ashes announced a 10-track album project titled ‘Manusher Jonno’, with all proceeds dedicated to humanitarian causes. The band members pledged not to take any personal remuneration, directing funds towards hospital support for patients suffering from complex illnesses such as cancer, kidney disease, paralysis and eye conditions.
Between the two Eid albums, Ashes will also release a song from the Manusher Jonno project.
Ivan emphasised that the band has long supported humanitarian efforts, from arranging blood donations to assisting patients unable to afford medical treatment.
“People come to us with hope, but we cannot help everyone individually,” he said. “Through these songs, we want to highlight people’s struggles and crises so that listeners can connect more deeply and emotionally with these realities.”
