The powerhouse frontman of one of the most famous Pakistani alternative rock bands Call, Junaid Khan has been the talk of the town ever since he came on the big screen. He has garnered considerable attention in the drama industry with his hit dramas for a long time now and his wizardry on tracks need no explanation. He has been playing leap frog from acting to singing so effortlessly, that he has made this double career seem like child’s play. A singer who has managed to conquer the early 1990s golden age of rock and metal with his soulful voice and guitar riffs has always been a favourite. This time, Junaid Khan has collaborated with a rock band from across the border called Spunk for his new song “Talash” (search). “Talash” is buoyant, filled with an energy that transcends borders and hate. Written and sung by Khan himself, the musicians sing for peace and harmony between the two states. ‘Music knows no boundaries and this collaboration with Spunk is a way to improve understanding and communication between the two countries. I have always believed in living peacefully in a borderless world and Talaash is going to spread the message of harmony amongst the people of both cultures,’ Khan says “Music knows no boundaries and this collaboration with Spunk is a way to improve understanding and communication between the two countries. I have always believed in living peacefully in a borderless world and ‘Talaash’ is going to spread the message of harmony amongst the people of both cultures,” Khan said. The lyrics remain effortlessly humane, alluding to the evils of division and hate, “Torri mene jo sari sarhadein, Sunn le khudgharzi ka hai inteqam yeh.” The collaboration reveals the truth of our twisted reality, with some heavy metal guitar riffs and strong vocals. It showcases the edgy side of alternative rock, in the strongest manner with its musical composition. The song takes us on a journey to explore our own identity, and to set ourselves free from the chaos of hate and divide. The unison in their voices, speaking out to us, emphasising that we arrived here together and we are all fighting the same battle. The song takes us on journey of self-reflection, connecting to people on a personal as well as national level. Khan has been giving us hits, one after the other, in acting as well as singing. His initiative to bring peace and harmony between the two countries is a need of our time. Published in Daily Times, February 5th 2019.