Faraz Anwar (Vocalist / Lead Guitarist)
Brainchild behind Mizraab, Pakistan’s first progressive metal band, Faraz started out as a session player working for over 50 major artists around the country, the likes of which include Sajjad Ali, Vital Signs, Junoon, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Ali Haider and Nadeem Jafri to name a few. With his passion for music knowledge, in 1996, Faraz was awarded an educational scholarship and an outstanding musical achievement award from The Berkley College of Music, Boston, but was unable to proceed due to personal hurdles.
Later in 1997, Faraz took charge of a band named “Collage” and hit the Pakistani mainstream market with a highly acclaimed album in the local charts. With mainstream coverage, Faraz Anwar found the recognition for his unique sound, style and multi-dimensional musical ability. After touring the UK in 1998, Collage disbanded and Faraz opened a new chapter in his personal odyssey named “Mizraab” and released 2 albums critically acclaimed and technical masterpieces which in turn brought a dedicated cult fan following.
Along with Baber Shiekh, Faraz formed Dusk, a death metal band, which became highly popular among the underground scene after releasing 2 albums and also helped Faraz spread his talent around Europe as Dusk toured Czech Republic in 2004.
With the release of his instrumental album “An Abstract Point of View”, Faraz received praise for his work globally; in fact the album gave him recognition in the top fleet of progressive metal musicians. Initially released by Gnarly Geezer Records (owned by the famous Allan Holdsworth) and later re-released by Lion Music, Finland “An Abstract Point of View” generated massive reviews throughout the world. With his fame already reaching higher ground, he has worked with some highly famous the likes of Chad Wackerman, Lanny Cardola, Matt Sorum & Slash.
Blessed with skill and talent, Faraz recently was voted through to the highly acclaimed Guitar Idol 2009 finals. However was unable to attend due to passport issues.
James Hobday (Bassist)
Born on the verge of the 90’s, James showed enthusiasm in music since childhood and erupted onto the performing scene at a very young age of 8. It wasn’t until turning 15, he recognized his passion for the seducing, deep and thumping bass sound and immediately pursued his true calling, picking up the bass guitar.
