Music Collector’s Profile: Haris Hussnain

1. Where does your admiration for music come from?

Mostly from the historical and cultural meanings behind certain bands. Music reflects society and its problems. I admire it because it speaks the truth.

2. What is it about the art of music that captures your attention?

What captures my attention is the research done when songs are written. A lot of symbolism is present in music. But what really captures my attention is the time taken to create magnificent pieces.

6. How and why did you decide to immerse yourself in music this way?

I like the other aspects of music such as the art of it and its themes. It also sounds great and the lyrics are a bit ambiguous. By immersing myself in this music, I can relate to the wider picture of what the artist is trying to create and the message they are trying to convey.

7. What was the first addition to this collection?

It was the Birthday Massacre poster. It was a download from a website called Vampirefreaks which sadly shut down.

3. Who in the industry stands out to you the most?

Marco Hietla stands out the most to me. He has a lot of experience in the industry since he has been part of Nightwish and other projects. He’s also produced his own music that has symbolic meaning to historical and mythological events. What makes him stand out the most, is his love for his fans. He performs because he likes to and not for money like a lot of other musicians do.

8. Are there any particular favourites you have?

My favourite is the Birthday Massacre poster. I love the violet hues and the edgy sort of vibe it gives off. I also like the Epica poster with Simon Simons on it. In terms of the digital downloads, I like the art for all of the Satyricon covers. The fiery black metal vibes are amazing. We should always appreciate the artists who create these posters and graphics as a lot of detail and effort has gone into making them resonate with musical ideas.

4. How would you describe your taste in music?

I would describe it as unique and alternative. I don’t really like chart music because it’s about love and romance most of the time. I like music with a story to it. This means I like a lot of metal and gothic bands. A lot of the music I like is similar to classical music due to the emphasis and effort put into how the instruments sound and not just the lyrics.

9. How will you continue to expand your personal music collection?

I will try and start collecting some key-rings. I also got a sleeveless denim jacket recently so patches and pin badges are things I’m on the look for.

5. Give us an insight into your collection; what is it that you collect?

I collect posters and digital downloads. I have a folder on my computer with everything in. The thing with digital downloads and posters is that they are easier to transport and don’t get small like t-shirts.

Words by: Rubie Barker Design by: Rahima Bhatti