Episode 9 opens with a stirring rendition of ‘Afghanistan - Pirouzi’ by all the contestants and a special guest appearance by the song’s composer, Arash. The judges then reflected on what makes these 12 contestants so unique and different from past years. This year they’ll be looking for vocal range, difficulty of songs selected, and stage presence in the next Afghan Star. As a new addition to ways of interacting with the program, viewers can now submit their ’thumbs up’ or ’thumbs down’ votes via text. 

This was Nayeb Nayab's first time on stage singing with a prepared playback track. He performed well and reaffirmed the judge’s decision to bring him into the top 12. Khoshboo Ahmadi was also a firt-timer on stage and was wisely counseled by the judges to remember the importance of singing and performing as two distant efforts. 3rd was Sohrab Ilyar, who opened with an Uzbek song that reminded us of the rich tapestry of peoples that call Afghanistan home. Hessam Farzam, an ambitious 19 year old, was 4th up and wowed the audience with a number from Faroughjad Ahmadi and left half the panel of judges almost speechless. Rabiullah Behzad followed with a slow ballad and was asked to let his complete emotions flow through the lyrics. 

Daoud Pejman kicked off the 2nd half of the show with a touching live instrument accompaniment. Afterward we took a short break with a new Q&A segment where Sohrab told viewers he’d gladly dance at any wedding, and even shimmy his shoulders if appropriate. 

We returned with Anahita Olfat, who has steadily improved over the course of the season and sang a crowd pleaser. We are keen to see her take the judges advice and return next episode as an even more serious contender for the title of Afghan Star. Haroun Popalzai and Haroun Anwari did not disappoint – they’re sure to go far as finalists. Nazir Heidari sang well and will have to work on his on-stage presence, but he has the potential. Jawad Hosseinzada overcame his nervous jitters and seems to being doing quite well during his rehearsals – the judges hope to see more of that live (and hope that he keeps up his diet!). Arash sang “Roozegare Shirin” with a guitar solo intro and a faster tempo – he also weighed in on the evening’s performances and cast his vote for Nayeb. Ever the entertainer, Arash closed out the episode  in style. Stay tuned for two more episodes next week!