• Comment: YouTube is not a reliable source, there are also WP:ALLEGED words which need quotations or an "alleged" at the start. TheNuggeteer (talk) 12:29, 25 June 2024 (UTC)
  • Comment: Remember that interviews are generally not considered as contributing to notability. — jmcgnh(talk) (contribs) 04:51, 3 May 2024 (UTC)


Public Voice is a progressive rock band founded in Iran by brothers Reza Khalili and Bahman Khalili. The band is known for being one of the early rock groups to emerge in Iran after the Islamic Revolution, blending Western progressive rock influences with their own cultural background.[1][2][3]

Band Members

Reza Khalili

Reza Khalili (born 1979 in Tehran) is the vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and composer for Public Voice. He began playing the electric guitar at 15, focusing on rock and blues styles. Reza later pursued formal music education at Equippers College in Auckland, New Zealand.

Bahman Khalili

Bahman Khalili (born 1977 in Tehran) is the drummer for the band [4]. He started playing drums at 17, embracing progressive rock rhythms. In 2023, Bahman graduated from the Film and TV Production programme at Yoobee College in Wellington, New Zealand.

Discography

"Escape from Darkness" is the name of the first album by Public Voice, which was released in 2005[5].

Public Voice has also released two underground albums named "Peaceful Farm" (2007) and "The Fall" (2009)[6].

History

Public Voice was formed in 1997, during a time when Western-style music faced significant restrictions in Iran. Influenced by bands like Pink Floyd, their music incorporated progressive rock elements that were uncommon in the Iranian music scene post-Islamic Revolution.

The band faced challenges due to government regulations on music, which made acquiring instruments, securing practice spaces, and performing publicly difficult[7][8]. Despite these obstacles, Public Voice garnered a growing audience and was among the first groups to use the term "rock" in concert promotions after the revolution.

Tensions with authorities led to harassment and a forced name change to "Atashbad" at one point [9]. Reports suggest they experienced repression for their artistic expression, including interference with their performances [10]. In late 2009, facing increasing pressures, the group decided to leave Iran.

Settling in New Zealand

Public Voice's departure from Iran was a long and arduous journey. They lived in Turkey (2009-2010), Azerbaijan (2010-2011), and Malaysia (2011-2021) before finally settling in New Zealand in March 2021.

Support for Social Movements

Public Voice continues to make music in New Zealand, performing at a variety of venues and events. The band is active in the local Iranian community and has been vocal in support of the Woman, Life, Freedom movement[11][12].

References

Public Voice Official Youtube Channel

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