Hidden beneath the alarming headlines from a totalitarian regime lies a bustling culture desperate for recognition - at home as well as in the eyes of the wider world.

 This documentary offers a view inside Tehran and its burgeoning pop music scene through the eyes of young musicians and their followers. It salutes their ongoing struggle with the Iranian government’s Ministry Of Islamic Guidance, Ershad, which meticulously scrutinizes and sometimes censors all forms of art.

The musicians have only one objective: to make music. They are using the internet to distribute and perform their art form with or without permission from Ershad. Despite the harassment and harsh religious censorship of Ershad, many bands have a deep respect for their cultural heritage, and that is reflected in their music.

The film follows the problems of many young musicians who are drawing inspiration from a rich literary tradition.   The alternative rock band O-Hum for example, is influenced by 14th century Persian poet Hafez. Molana, from the 13th century, finds reinterpretation in Atma with an intriguing fusion of Electronica and Rock. Twenty year old rapper Sorush even quotes directly from the Koran.