Chand Tara Orchestra deliver a fresh, beguiling 'Makki Madni'

Published January 14, 2015
Chand Tara Orchestra.—Photo Courtesy: Chand Tara Orchestra Official Facebook Page
Chand Tara Orchestra.—Photo Courtesy: Chand Tara Orchestra Official Facebook Page

The song 'Makki Madni' was originally a qawali/naat in its traditional form, sung by classical maestro Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

The timeless ode has now been re-imagined by Karachi-based Chaand Tara Orchestra. They deliver a transcendental track that breaks all traditional boundaries, yet maintains the depth Khan sahib's version gave us.

While it is impossible to compare the 'magic' of Khan sahib with contemporary musicians, Chaand Tara Orchestra's version of the song does convey the same sentiments as the original.

This rendition would be hard to place inside any traditional genre, but regardless, even the casual listener would likely be engulfed in a world of sheer musical splendor.

With Sikandar Mufti on percussion and Babar Shiekh on bass, the intro of the song starts off slow and mysterious until vocalist Sherry comes in to dominate the track.

Subtle contributions by guitarists Rizwanullah Khan and Omran Shafique – who also recorded and produced the song – add to the bassist's groove and complete the mix with a simplicity that complements the powerful vocals.

The band aptly sums up the new song on their website:

"A humble rendition of Khan sahib's much celebrated tune. This is praise to the Light of Cosmos! May Peace and Blessings and Salutations be upon Him!"

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