The seventh episode of Coke Studio Season 8 had quite a few good things going for it. For starters, the inimitable Farida Khanam’s rendition of the famous Sohail Rana composition Aaj jaane ki zid. It was such a delight to see her perform on television after a long while.

Ali Zafar’s Aj din vehre vich was a controlled performance; he sang the antaras particularly well.

Malang Party’s Dil jale was a groovy act marked by punchy lyrics and strong vocals. Perhaps the highlight of the show was Armaan by Siege and Alycia Dias. Just the kind of zest and innovation that Coke Studio needs.

The instruments used, especially the whistling flute, in the track were the near-perfect accompaniment for the theme of the song. Both vocalists knew what they were supposed to do, well almost, and Alycia’s soft voice lent a distinct sound to the composition which was supposed to be sung mostly with higher notes. Cool stuff!

Published in Dawn, Sunday Magazine, October 11th, 2015

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