Having grown up in Pakistan, I was exposed and inspired by the usual international rock and grunge scenes, as well as local bands such as Junoon and Karavan. (Do check them out; you'll know why I gravitated towards playing the bass.)
As I learned to play music, I found myself becoming a part of the alive and thriving underground music scene, often spending hours jamming with fellow musicians. Learning songs was secondary and only happened as we prepared for shows; it was substantially easier for us, as we had already spent so much time playing with each other. The overall experience was great for me. I loved making music in all its forms and performing on stage had its own thrills.
Fast forward a few years and I found myself in DC, itching to play music and eager to find like-minded musicians. When my friend Ammar told me about Flashband and invited me to check out his performance at the Freedom of Speech showcase, I was intrigued. After attending the showcase, I was sold on it! My first show was the Halloween Dance Party showcase and it was a wonderful experience, from the Meet and Greet to band practice to the actual performance.
The promise of performing to a packed audience in a few weeks ensured that everyone was committed and enthusiastic about playing, while the Flashband team ensured that musicians didn't need to worry about looking for venues, lugging along extensive equipment, or doing marketing and finding an audience for the band, thereby removing many of the barriers to entry.
Since each showcase is a mix of old and new Flashbanders, each experience is completely new. I have played genres and songs that I never imagined I would and loved doing so. I have also learned so much from my fellow Flashbanders, as each one brings with them a different approach.
As exciting as it is, I must warn new members that Flashband is very addictive! Within the past 9 months, I have played in seven shows, including the Funk Parade and Baltimore Artscape festival, and am currently preparing to play That 70’s Showcase.
Some shows have been quite memorable for me, like when we did a twelve-song mash up for the Animals showcase, re-imagined songs for the Remix show, and had the crowd go wild when we did a RHCP set with three vocalists for the Funk Parade. Flashband keeps me on my toes with the challenge of preparing a completely new set list in a different style, learning new songs, adapting to the playing style of different musicians, and writing new material. It ensures that I keep growing as a musician and that I do not get rusty.
My advice to new Flashbanders would be to come to the Meet and Greet with an open mind, and form a band with people that you enjoyed playing with, because, when you are having fun on stage, it shows. At the end of the day, everyone is there to enjoy themselves, so do try to accommodate everyone and make the experience pleasant for fellow Flashbanders.
I feel very grateful to be a part of the music community in DC. What is unique about it is that it is small enough that one eventually gets to know everyone, but also big enough to accommodate musicians with diverse styles.
To me, music is universal, irrespective of where one is from or what language one speaks. Music is one common ground you can find with everyone and Flashband is great at getting everyone together to speak that language.
Want to be featured in an upcoming Flashband Meet the Musician? Contact Deborah Lash for more info.
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