3 underrated Pakistani artists making incredible music

Pakistani music has been creeping its way into the global mainstream over the past few years. One may cite the phenomenal success of Coke Studio as a catalyst in taking local music to international audiences.

However, there are always artists within the music industry, who despite having a smaller following and a relative lack of resources, leave a lasting impact on the music scene.

Their sheer musical brilliance, even without expensive music videos and costly promotional campaigns, earns them their audience.

Here is our pick of four underrated artists/bands that have flourished in the indie music scene, creating quality music despite not being associated with any label or big platform.

Pakar Dhakar

Pakar Dhakar has been on a steady rise with frequent releases under their belt. Comprising of guitarist/vocalist Jaber Ayub, vocalist Hasan Sikander Khan, guitarist Humayun Mir and bassist Mudassir Zaki, the quartet has released a number of songs and videos and established themselves as a bonafide alt rock band. It’s a fresh sound reminiscent of the glory days of alt rock and grunge.

The songwriting is fresh, often saying things as simply and effectively as possible. Despite being an independent band, Pakar Dhakar has managed to persevere through the challenges that may be faced by most bands in their position, with extra focus on frequent live performances, usually organized by the band themselves, and have shone through the clutter.

Zarf

A relatively new band, Zarf have carved out their own sound which encompasses everything from slow ballads to hard rock hitters. Consisting of guitarist Mubashir Taimur, bassist Mudassir Zaki, vocalist Farrukh Ali, and drummer Azeem Arif, the band has a full-length LP, Zindagi to their name which was released in 2022.

The band has also released a few live releases which really show their on-stage abilities and their command over live performances. Despite no music videos under their belt, the band has done well to keep releasing music every now and then, leading to a growing fanbase not only locally but across the border as well.

Mughal e Funk

Despite having a lineup of experience industry veterans including drummer Kami Paul, bassist Farhan Ali, keyboardist Rufus Shahzaad and sitar maestro Rakae Jamil, Mughal e Funk often get overlooked, partly because they are largely an instrumental band. While they’ve collaborated with singers like Meesha Shafi, it's their intricate compositions that blow your mind at first listen. The fusion of eastern, Mughal-influenced melodies with a hardcore western funk rhythm section, really makes for a unique fusion sound, one which is also missing from the international scene.

The compositions are complex at times yet very enjoyable and relatable because of the unapologetic desi influences within them. Their debut EP Sultanat was released in 2018, comprising of six tracks, with each being named after a different Mughal emperor.