Few bands in Bangladesh’s rock history have demonstrated the longevity, adaptability, and resilience of Aurthohin quite like the group led by the charismatic bassist and vocalist Bassbaba Sumon. Long regarded as one of South Asia’s most influential rock musicians, Sumon has spent decades reshaping the role of the bass guitar in Bangladeshi music while building a legacy that extends far beyond conventional stardom.
Stepping into a futuristic café inspired by the video game Cyberpunk 2077 at Sumon’s residence offers an immediate glimpse into another side of the musician. Away from the stage, he is an avid gamer, deeply immersed in the cyberpunk universe. Sumon revealed that he has spent nearly 1,400 hours exploring the game, experimenting with modifications, completing multiple endings, and trying virtually every gameplay style possible.
The connection between Sumon and the game is striking. Over the years, he has faced extraordinary physical challenges, including a battle with cancer, a near-fatal accident, and an astonishing 36 surgeries. In many ways, his fascination with a world where characters undergo body enhancements and surgical modifications mirrors aspects of his own difficult journey.
Despite these health struggles, stepping away from music has never been an option. Sumon made it clear that his dedication to the bass remains unwavering. Although the instrument is physically demanding during live performances, he has never considered abandoning it. At one stage, he even contemplated giving up singing entirely to focus solely on bass guitar.
His commitment to mastery is equally remarkable. Reflecting on his development as a musician, Sumon shared an unusual practice method: isolating himself for 27 days with only his bass guitar. According to him, this intense period of uninterrupted focus proved transformative, providing a foundation that minimised the need for lengthy practice sessions later in life.
Aurthohin’s current line-up also appears stronger than ever. Guitarist and keyboardist Shishir Ahmed, a key figure in the band’s earlier success, has returned following a hiatus. He described the break as necessary and said rejoining the group felt like a natural decision when invited back.
Meanwhile, drummer Sheikh Reaz—also a founding member of the heavy metal band Mechanix—has recently joined Aurthohin, describing the opportunity as a privilege. New member Adnan Atique has also earned praise from Sumon, particularly for his chemistry with Shishir Ahmed.
The band’s latest album, Phoenixer Diary 2, signals another chapter in Aurthohin’s ongoing reinvention. Songs such as “Phoenix 2”, “Nikkrishto 4”, “Cactus”, and “Shikari” have quickly gained traction among listeners. Sumon insists the band has consistently been ahead of its time, noting that earlier projects such as Guti, Nikkrishto, and Phoenix 1 were initially misunderstood before later being embraced by fans.
Their music has also found renewed popularity through cinema, with “Chaite Paro 2” receiving fresh attention after its inclusion in the film Bonolota Express.
Current Aurthohin Line-up
| Member | Role | Notable Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Bassbaba Sumon | Bass, Vocals | Founder, songwriter, cultural icon |
| Shishir Ahmed | Guitar, Keyboard | Returning long-time member |
| Adnan Atique | Guitar | New addition praised for chemistry |
| Sheikh Reaz | Drums | Former Mechanix founder |
Looking ahead, Aurthohin is preparing for a solo concert in Chittagong. While a full reunion featuring former members remains uncertain, Sumon has expressed hope that such an event may happen in the future.
Ultimately, Aurthohin’s continued success is rooted in its loyal fanbase, affectionately known as “Odbhuts”. For Sumon and his bandmates, every reinvention, performance, and album is driven by a desire to exceed expectations. With a revitalised line-up and renewed creative energy, Aurthohin appears far from finished. Much like the mythical phoenix that inspires its latest work, the band continues to rise—stronger, wiser, and more determined with each new chapter.