Schtic Life
Inventing the Unthinkable: Adil Shah’s Quadruplet Technique at a Blazing 240 BPM
In the heart of Dhaka, Bangladesh, Adil Shah—a musician, innovator, and the founding force behind the metalcore band Plasmic Knock—has achieved something groundbreaking: the invention of a guitar technique known as Quadruplet Riffing at an astonishing 240 beats per minute (BPM).
Mr. Adil Shah is not only the creator of the quadruplet guitar technique, which is celebrated for its speed and precision, but he also pioneered one of the fastest compositions through this method. His unique progression, operating at 8/14 BPM, has inspired many, including musicians joining renowned bands like Burry Tomorrow. This technique, which blends relentless speed with surgical precision, has brought a signature edge to Plasmic Knock’s sound, helping them capture the attention of metal enthusiasts far beyond Bangladesh’s borders.
Recently, Adil applied his project management skills to his composition methods, seamlessly blending technical precision with strategic planning. This integration has allowed him to refine the Quadruplet Riffing approach, bringing an organized structure to his creative process that’s inspired other musicians around the globe.
His technique has been applied at Bangladeshi musical schools like Chords & BEATS and Classical Musical School. He conducted many workshops and training on this technique at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and Nazrul Institute.
He is also a member of the American Federation of Musicians.
Adil’s journey with Plasmic Knock began in 2007 when he founded the band originally named Dreamkell. Starting from Dhaka’s underground metal scene, Adil’s vision was clear: to make a mark in heavy metal, a genre that had little presence in Bangladesh. With his roles as lead guitarist, lyricist, and composer, he not only shaped the band’s sound but also inspired a wave of local support.
In 2008, just a year after their formation, Plasmic Knock became runners-up at the Nokia IAC award, a major achievement that validated Adil’s bold pursuit. Representing Bangladesh, the band went on to place fourth across South Asia. In the years that followed, Plasmic Knock became a national champion on the ReverbNation platform in 2015, earning first place and later the title of Best South Asian English Band in 2016 from Sound Gimmicks. These milestones marked Adil’s journey as not just a musician but a trailblazer for metal in Bangladesh.
For Adil, creating Quadruplet Riffing was a way to capture a sound that was intense, fast, and technically challenging.
Playing at 240 BPM is not just a test of speed but a demand for unwavering precision, as each riff builds upon the last with intense focus. Adil introduced this technique in tracks like Dead Moonlight, Apparent Nightmare, Let’s Walk Alone, Norokito Prithibi, and Madok Na, which have become fan favorites on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
The Quadruplet Riffing technique has redefined what is possible for metal guitarists, becoming a signature part of Plasmic Knock’s sound and an inspiration to musicians across genres. For fans, it’s an invitation into a new world of sound—one that is raw, powerful, and deeply memorable.
Over the years, Plasmic Knock has grown into a musical force, with a five-member lineup consisting of Adil on lead guitar, drummer Saiduzzaman Sunny, bassist Mashroor Rayian, vocalist Shakib Zesun, and guitarist Sazid Ali.
In 2009, they released their first track, marking the beginning of a journey that would lead to their debut album, Mrito Shobvota, in 2016, followed by in 2020.
Together, these albums solidified their place in the region’s metal scene, giving them a platform to express their message through a powerful blend of heavy riffs and intense lyrics.
In addition to their albums, Plasmic Knock has produced a series of singles, including Shoperner Rajjo, Shadinotar Gaan, and Mayagar, featured on mixed albums and streamed by thousands on Spotify and Apple Music. Through their music, the band has built a following that is both local and international, with fans who eagerly await their next release.
Plasmic Knock’s journey hasn’t just been about making music; it’s been about creating a space for metal within Bangladeshi culture. The band has performed at countless events and festivals, including major venues like the Mirpur Cultural Convention Hall, Cox’s Bazar Carnival, BICC, and RCC, as well as at universities like the International University of Business Agriculture and Technology.
Their shows bring together thousands of fans, giving them a firsthand experience of Plasmic Knock’s powerful sound and Adil’s Quadruplet Riffing in action.
Memorable performances like the AniManga Carnival and the Concert for Rasel have helped Plasmic Knock connect with fans and build community in the Bangladeshi metal scene.
After coming to the USA in 2023, he joined and currently working with Silvertung, a band from Pennsylvania.
Their verified artist status on streaming platforms, along with over 47,000 views on YouTube, further attests to the band’s growing reach and popularity.
Adil’s vision for metal goes beyond just technical prowess. With Plasmic Knock, he aims to establish metalcore as a national genre in Bangladesh, building bridges between cultures through cross-country collaborations.
The band has connected with artists across South Asia, including those in India, to foster a musical exchange that celebrates diverse backgrounds while pushing the boundaries of what metal can be.
In an interview with UP WORDS, Plasmic Knock shared plans to fuse Bangladeshi and Indian musical traditions. Adil views these collaborations as vital for expanding metal and making music a universal language that unites diverse backgrounds.
Adil Shah and Plasmic Knock are dedicated to refining the Quadruplet Riffing technique and expanding their musical reach, showcasing resilience, creativity, and a passion for music.
For fans and aspiring musicians alike, Adil’s journey is an inspiring reminder that innovation, dedication, and a commitment to one’s craft can break boundaries.
For those who want to experience Adil’s groundbreaking work and the intensity of Plasmic Knock’s performances, their music can be found on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
Follow Adil Shah and Plasmic Knock:
As Adil and his band move forward, are poised to shape the global metal scene with their groundbreaking techniques, powerful performances, and commitment to pushing boundaries.
About the Author
Jordan Blake is a Chicago-based music journalist with over 15 years of experience, known for capturing the essence of artists in global metal and rock scenes through deep storytelling in leading publications.
