Modernotaku: Your girl next door with California dreams

The last time we spoke to Mumtahina Mehzabin Afrin, or as she prefers being addressed by her stage name 'Modernotaku', it was not solely due to her musical prowess. She had gone viral owing to a TikTok reel for saying something rather cheeky on camera. 

Two years down the line when we caught up again, she's still consistent with her charismatic cheeky self, but this time round, it was arguably in the wake of one of her biggest musical benchmarks yet, if not the biggest.

With the release of 'Long Distance Love', the latest track from Coke Studio Bangla's third season, Modernotaku's voice has reached a wider circle of mainstream music listeners—potentially marking a significant step forward in her career.

The song was recorded and filmed about 18 months ago. At that time, she happened to be in a long-distance relationship herself, which naturally raises the question whether her personal experience had influenced her connection to the project.

"It was purely coincidental," she chuckled.

While she gets to fully express her own musical self in her solo ventures, in collaborative projects like this, Modernotaku has to explore aspects of musicality that don't come to her naturally. One might assume this creates challenges or risks diluting her musical identity, but she has a cheerful way of adapting to any space she is placed in.

"Honestly, I wouldn't say working with multiple artistes was difficult. I'd actually say it was a lot of fun. On top of that, it was a huge learning experience since I got to experiment with styles of singing I'm not usually familiar with individually," she said.

Digging a bit deeper, if you listen to her solo music, you'll quickly notice her relaxed, laid-back style of singing and delivering melodies. Yet, being the youngest member in the studio and working alongside some of the most prominent musicians in the country were deeply humbling experiences for Modernotaku.

"When you work with the likes of Shuvo da or Shayan Chowdhury Arnob, every single note has to be pitch-perfect, and they won't let you settle until you hit it just right. You immediately understand why they are who they are—their professionalism, efficiency, and the immense thought that goes into perfecting every note. Honestly, it's a blessing to work with people who know exactly what the song should sound like," she said.

Beyond the learning experience she gained, moments like this feel almost like life coming full circle for Modernotaku—as the very artistes she once grew up listening to are now the ones she is professionally working alongside. 

Yet, she was vocal about the fact that, despite being a relative nobody compared to the stalwarts of the scene, she never once felt ignored or inferior. Instead, she felt like an active part of the project—something that, in her eyes, elevates her own sense of musicianship and stands as a testament to her musical growth.

If I ever make it to Coachella, I can die in peace. And I believe with Coke Studio, I've gotten one step closer to my dreams.

Although Coke Studio Bangla very well may have been the biggest platform she's been affiliated with till date, there were other instances of Bangladeshi musical giants recognising Modernotaku for her work. A clear example goes back to when Fuad Almuqtadir—one of the most influential names in the history of Bangladeshi music—ended up mixing one of her songs, 'Bhul Shomoy'.

"I am honestly surprised by how humble these artistes are and how open they are to support my craft in whatever ways they can."

Away from music, Modernotaku has also been involved in other creative projects. She has appeared in acting gigs in the past, working with noted director Nuhash Humayun, and has modeled for multiple apparel brands. She remains open to future acting opportunities, provided they are the right fit for her.  

On the musical side, she released her own track about five months ago titled 'Jete Pari', accompanied by a rather DIY-style music video. The project came together on a minimal budget with the help of her close circle of supportive friends who share similar creative interests. On top of that, although she wanted to remain tight lipped about it, Modernotaku is also working on her singles and hopes to release a future album as well.

Before we wrapped up, I wanted an honest take from Afrin herself—where she sees herself right now, what the future might hold, and what her ideal peak would look like as an accomplished musician. I thought she'd take a moment to answer, but even before I could finish the question she replied with utter excitement and glee.

"I wanna go to Coachella, man! I want to perform on that stage with the very artistes I've been listening to and supporting for years. If I ever make it to Coachella, I can die in peace. And I believe with Coke Studio, I've gotten one step closer to my dreams," she concluded.