Legendary Maldivian rock band Traphic Jam has launched a powerful new chapter as it celebrates its 20th anniversary, unveiling a refreshed lineup, a surge in online momentum, and the announcement of new music and live performances.
The milestone comes with the official addition of two highly respected musicians, Addo and Ibbe, to the band’s core lineup. The announcement was revealed through a three-part social media video series titled “Traphic Jam Recruitment Trilogy”, which quickly gained traction across Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, surpassing 130,000 views within five days and signalling a strong resurgence of fan interest.
Veteran Musicians Strengthen the Sound
Addo joins Traphic Jam on bass guitar, bringing decades of experience from across the Maldivian music scene. He has performed and collaborated with well-known acts including Illsight, Serenity Dies, Affan, Shiuz, Haisham, Haffaf, and Nashid from Zero Degree Atoll. His influence also extends to his role as a founding member of several bands, including Fasylive, Valu Ilmu, Eman’s Conspiracy, and Nish Nashid.
On drums and percussion, Ibbe adds an equally formidable legacy. With more than three decades in rhythm and performance, he has worked with bands and artists such as Dynamix, 2Z (Two Zee), Mezzo, Sultans, Tumor, Leviathan, Affan, Zero Degree Atoll’s Nashid, and Ahmed Jones. Ibbe was also a founding member of Fasylive and Tumor, underscoring his long-standing impact on the local music industry.
Reviving a Historic Studio Space
Beyond the stage, Addo and Ibbe share a creative partnership through N9 Studio. In 2022, the duo revived the iconic Studio Blue Waves, a space once used by Zero Degree Atoll for rehearsals and recordings, renaming it N9 Studio. The facility now offers recording, mixing, and mastering services, with a strong focus on supporting the Maldivian music community and nurturing emerging talent.
New Single and Album on the Way
As part of its 20-year celebration, Traphic Jam has confirmed the release of a brand-new single titled “A.B.L.H.”, which will be accompanied by an official music video. The band has also begun work on a full studio album, marking its first major recording project in this new era.
According to the band, the upcoming album will go beyond entertainment, addressing pressing social issues including gang violence, drug abuse, child sexual abuse, and corruption. The project is positioned as a call to action for young people, encouraging unity, awareness, and positive change across the nation.
Live Debut of the New Lineup
Fans will get their first chance to see the renewed Traphic Jam lineup live at the Ooredoo Fun Run music show on December 18, with the band set to take the stage at 20:00. The performance will mark the official live debut of the expanded lineup.
With renewed energy, a strengthened musical backbone, and a clear social message, Traphic Jam’s 20th anniversary signals not just a celebration of the past, but a determined push into the future of Maldivian rock music.
