Maxwell Dias, once the heart and soul of Karachi’s live music scene passes away

Ace guitarist of the city’s mythical club circuit succumbed to cancer earlier this month

KARACHI:

The last couple of weeks have been eventful albeit for harrowing reasons. The country witnessed a series of tragedies that resulted in much-needed discourse and nationwide protests over some of the most important issues in societies. Amidst all the horrors that took place, the country also lost one of the most venerated figures of the music industry, particularly the Karachi music scene.

On September 10, one of the pioneers of the local music scene Maxwell Dias passed away after a five year battle with cancer. Born on March 12, 1954, in Chittagong, present-day Bangladesh, Maxwell is revered as one of the iconic guitar players with his contribution to Karachi live scene being unmatched.

“He developed interest in music at an early age, and started out by learning to play the clarinet, and self-taught himself to play the guitar after realizing he was passionate about the later instrument. He enjoyed playing love songs and ballads, and expressed his emotions through music,” Alicia Dias, daughter of the late guitar player and a well-known singer in her own right told The Express Tribune.

Having moved to Karachi in 1970 as the situation in the then East Pakistan became difficult, Maxwell in a couple of years managed to become a mainstay on the city’s much talked about club circuit. After mastering the guitar, he started his career in 1975 by playing at the Merchant Navy Club and continued to collaborate with various local renowned bands. “Audience would enjoy his performance at various clubs, hotels, and concerts. He worked with the greats of that time, including Amir Zaki and Egan Fernandes, who were amongst the two most popular musicians back then,” Alicia shared.

Prominent figures of the industry have also lamented Maxwell’s loss, deeming him a legendary figure of the industry. Guitarist Shallum Xavier of the band Fuzon expressed his condolences to both Maxwell’s family and fans.

“He was a noteworthy musician among the cover bands that dominated Karachi’s music scene. He played music for over five decades,” Xavier told The Express Tribune. “It’s a big loss not only for the family but also for the local music industry. My sincere condolences to his family loved ones, fans, and his followers. May his soul rest in peace.”

Echoing the same sentiments, producer and guitarist, Kashan Admani also talked about how a “huge void” has been left with Maxwell’s passing. “Max was one of the oldest guitar players from the Karachi music scene and his contribution to Karachi’s live music scene cannot be forgotten. It is very sad that such a senior musician who was still actively performing is no more with us. The void he has left behind will not be very easy to fill,” Admani lamented.

Prominent bass player Bradler D'souza who is currently playing with the band Strings called Maxwell an inspiration."He’s been a great inspiration for the younger generation and for me to, I have toured with Uncle max it was one memorable moment. we have lost another legend. Carried out his legacy to so many musicians. Hope he’s rocking up there," said Bradley

Veteran jazz keyboardist, Jon Saville currently playing for the fusion band Surkhwab recalled his experiences playing with the late Maxwell, during the former’s younger days. “I've known Maxwell Dias (Max) ever since a kid, as he was first, my Father, Edgar's - who was also a musician - friend, and bandmate. He was a very respectable, humble, and intelligent man with a positive mindset, and a brilliant sense of humour, besides being a very good guitarist, and singer,” Saville said.

Much like Saville, musician and curator Ahsan Bari also praised Maxwell for being a great human being aside from being a talented musician. “His last music performance was at the Artist Commune which I curated. It was a show that featured a lot of the musicians from the 70s. Uncle Max was kind enough to join in as well. He was a great man aside from being a senior and ace musician.,” Bari recalled.

Adding on, Ahsan spoke highly of Maxwell’s resilience during the last few years. “He had a rockstar persona. When on stage he was a person who always enjoyed music. Despite serious health issues he continued to perform and push boundaries. We should commemorate all such legends,” Bari concluded.

While the industry mourns for the Maxwell the musician, the family grieves for the man behind. “ It is a difficult and emotional time for our family. As losing a family member, especially a parent is never easy on anyone. We continue to grieve and support each other during this arduous phase and will remember dad’s legacy, as he was a legend indeed,” Alicia said.

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