“Every Sunday’s getting more bleak/A fresh poison each week.” – ‘Take Me to Church’ by Hozier

he summer season has arrived. It is not as intense as it will be in the next couple of months, but as a Karachiite, I can say with certainty that the weather is going in that direction.

For a great deal of people, an easy way to keep up with growing economic inflation as well as with the country’s politics and its larger consequences, accessibility to the internet paved the way. Alternatively, internet also allowed people to escape from reality by listening to music, playing games, and even educating themselves on a diverse set of skills.

But as more-than-your-aver-age political upheaval erupted in the country last to last week, the internet was nabbed from the people. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) suspended internet on the orders of the interior ministry, reported Geo News. This also meant suspension of popular social media platforms such as Twitter, You-Tube and Facebook. They were restored later in the week although YouTube is still running in problematic fashion.

“In all the madness and negativity that surrounds us these days, I believe it’s essential that artists continue to have a platform to express their creativity and music lovers find an uplifting escape from their routine lives.” – Rohail Hyatt

We had to embrace dark times like an eerie reminder of days long gone. However, setting this thought aside, as a constant YouTube user, it became clear that the video-sharing site was still acting up even after restoration, which meant content released by others couldn’t be viewed as easily as possible. It could be a global YT issue or a local one. Either way, it made complete sense that Velo Sound Station 2 presumably decided not to drop another song after releasing ‘Nakhray’ earlier.

During this turmoil, we spoke to Rohail Hyatt (who was talking to Instep from a remote location). He shared his initial feelings about Velo Sound Station 2.

Rohail Hyatt, who refers to his role as a guide and officially holds the position of executive producer said: “In all the madness and negativity that surrounds us these days, I believe it’s essential that artists continue to have a platform to express their creativity and music lovers find an uplifting escape from their routine lives.

“Facilitating and guiding this exchange, through a motivated and empowered young team and a brand that cares, has been a very rewarding experience.”

Is it possible that a second song is released by the time you’re reading this article? Yes, but its purpose should be clear. Escapism during these myopic times isn’t ignoble; it might just be what we need.

– Photo by Nadir Firoz Khan