No one quite understands what music means to Pakistan like Lasers. The dynamic brotherly duo of Raza and Zia originated during their time performing local shows in their city of Karachi. At just 11 and 12 years old, Raza was composing intricate melodies that blended the pop musings of the States with indigenous Paki instrumentation while Zia penned catchy lyrics and weaved together stories of culture and good times. Coupled with covers of popular Western songs such as “La Bamba” and Billie Jean,” Lasers would delight listeners on their way to their debut album Khwab in 1992.
The brothers became established live performers from their notoriety at venues such as Karachi Gymkhana, Defense Club, and the British Council Karachi, among others. By the time their 1995 album Hey Hey! was released, a fusion of Pakistani pop and the budding genre of hip-hop, Lasers had booked performances on live television and multiple appearances on Hit Parade featured on Network Television Marketing. Their third album, Tera Dopatta Peela, charted very well in their homeland with songs like “Tera Dopatta Peela” and “Jeevay Pakistan – Must Qalandar Lal Qalandar” resonating with fans across the country. Lasers would move to the US and after decades of silence, the band has returned with a new music video to “Aazadi,” their independence day song. Lasers prove with this record and more in the vault that they have what it takes to put Pakistani pop back on the map!