Tinak Dhin
Ali Sethi was able to work his magic back to back and in the process showcased his versatility. He can be extremely soulful and in synch with an artist like Abida Parveen in ‘Aaqa’ from last season and at the same time work his funk evident in that he seems to be having the time of his life in the video.
An original folk-centric number, Tinak Dhin depicts the rhythm of the life, both lyrically and musically. Ali Hamza’s debut as a music director on Coke Studio proves to be an audio-visual feast as we see a power trio take the stage. The energy of three unique voices comes together in a confluence of energy; Hamza’s smoky voice, Sethi’s charming finesse and Ehsin’s textured versatility merge upon the playful, low-ends of the kanjira, upbeat mandolin and crisp sitar to create an exciting score for the hopeful.
Sayonee
Sayonee was arguably the most anticipated track of this episode. With Salman Ahmad tweeting hints as to what Junoon songs might feature, many suspected multiple songs from the founding artist. Instead Coke Studio’s rendition of ‘Sayonee’ only incorporated the chorus from the original and acted as tribute to major Junoon hits by incorporating into one medley-esque track.
The tribute incorporates the tracks: Ghoom, ‘Sayonee’, ‘Saeen’ and some aspects of ‘Meri Awaz Suno’. Initially the premise seems dark and mysterious given Ghoom’s intro only to be greeted with Rahat’s soft vocals which, many would agree, don’t suit the song. Rahat’s ‘Qawalli’ Rock take on classic Junoon tracks, which Salman Ahmad previously raved about, traverse the rest of the track as well. While Salman Ahmad’s solo, Ali Noor’s vocals and the fact that Salman Ahmad’s own son opened up the Saeen track in the song, worked very well for the tribute, fans argued that Rahat’s voice and tone ultimately did not belong on Junoon’s tracks.
Jaan-e-Baharan
Weaving a spell to ensnare the listener, Shuja Haider returns with a tribute to the legendary film music director, Master Inayat Hussain. The reimagination of the song stays true to the theatrical and dramatic nature of Pakistani film music and infuses Spanish musical motifs in it’s stylings. Ali Zafar proves himself as the perfect cast for the roll of a love-struck beau with his captivating vocals and pronounced stage presence. As Zafar convincingly professes his devotion and adoration for his Jaan-e-Baharaan, a powerful string section packed with a punch of percussions serves as the perfect backdrop for this ditty.
Faasle
A masterfully produced ballad, Faasle is a powerful tale of unrequited love. The signature Kaavish sound is etched onto every microtone of the arrangement with Jaffer Zaidi’s sonorous, melancholic vocals and Maaz Maudood’s soul-stirring guitar tones. Alongside the duo, shining through the musical landscape of the song, Quratulain Balouch uncovers previously unchartered territory as her textured, emotive vocals seasons the song into one of the sweetest manifestation of heartbreak and loss. Floating on a cushion of warm, layered keys and nostalgic backing vocals, Faasle is an ode to love found and love lost.
