Posts Tagged ‘Folk’

When the unexpected news came about earlier this summer of Panjabi superstar Diljit readying to unite with one of the UK’s titan music directors in Sukhjit Singh Olk, widely known as “Tru-Skool”, we were instantly on tenterhooks about the results this plethora of talent could conjure up.

With Diljit’s contentious follow-up album to ‘The Next Level’ alongside Honey Singh scrapped, the artist has looked to get back on the straight and narrow and give his music a reboot. With his acting career blossoming, the services of a certain folk architect from Derby were called upon and the journey Back to Basics began. We put the collaboration through its paces and have attempted to dissect the inner workings in order to find out if this move has done the trick.

B2B’s lead track Kharku is a downright earth-shattering starter that sets the precedent for Back to Basics. In his opening gambit Diljit marks his intent in unequivocal style, unencumbered by instruments and indeed rubberstamps the hefty, combative chorus penned by the tremendously talented Veet Baljit. The brooding nature of Kharku is relayed by Tru-Skool and as such sets the tempo at a positively bruising 82 beats per minute. The producer elects to use a punishing variety of percussion as his weapon of choice on the opener and boy does it inflict damage coupled with the matching no-holds-barred bassline! Nonetheless, the spectacle is only enhanced through timeless sarangi bites, perceptive mandolin pieces and swarming tumbi which all combine to harmonising effect.

The dramatic visuals directed by Gifty see our protagonist administer a first-hand lesson in respect to a bunch of trifling goons. Though the adaptation of the concept lacks in imagination, it does seem to sell and does cater to Dosanjh’s growing acting credentials.

Quoted within the inlay “Back 2 Basics… is an attempt to return to a bygone era of distant history” and you’ll find no better demonstration of that than the exemplary Truck. Paying homage to the living legend, maestro and king of all Panjabi producers, Charanjit Ahuja, Tru-Skool finds the ‘same line and wave length’ with Diljit to accomplish quite an astonishing three and half minutes of history.

We were taken aback at the rustic vocal effort mustered by Diljit and the true skill involved to not be overwhelmed by such a finely-tuned, uncut composition. Reminiscent of the sound first created by Ahuja decades ago, Tru-Skool delves into the old school collating the sounds of his tumbi, his harmonium, his tabla alongside mandolin sections performed Amarjit Singh Hayer (Kaos Productions) and the signature Ahuja signature Spanish-style guitar executed by another, often unsung uber-talented UK musician, Pammi Singh Sahib (Sahib G). Moreover, the impeccable harmonium performance is one element to listen out for with its beautiful intricacies and ability to create a real sense of occasion, a truly memorable one at that!

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A voice that has been kept under wraps while a pursuit of academia took precedence and a subsequent period abroad as he successfully scaled professional heights; an epitome of the present-day Punjabi striving to achieve, excel in the world and indeed rise to the upper echelons of society.

Having already a forged a formidable singing reputation following his alliance with Moviebox, now Switzerland based vocalist Tej Hundal is back for the long haul with illustrious  composer and music  producer Ravi Bal, responsible for Malkit Singh’s Midas Touch, Surjit Khan’s Headliner and most recently Avtar Maniac’s Haneri, enlisted for musical duties on this 8-track solo project.

Considering Hundal’s background, it is only apt that this fresh venture be named Punjabian Da Raaj. With Ravi Bal at the ship’s helm, his unmistakeable knack of nurturing fledgling talent is key to this partnership coming into fruition. Having a track record elevating the careers of the likes of Lakhwinder Wadali and Preet Harpal amongst others, Hundal’s potent vocal chords are ideal ingredients for Bal to wield his wand upon and yield results for an international audience.

A turbocharged curtain-raiser lies in wait as the title track Punjabian Da Raaj (Ravi Bal Mix) is intended to set proceedings off to a flyer and does precisely that with plenty of gusto from Tej Hundal who is propelled by Ravi Bal’s indomitable musical input.

As the expression goes, “start as you mean to go on” and Hundal does not hesitate in fluent vocal delivery all the while maintaining an all-important razor-edge on this stirring opener with the iconic GT Road at its heart.  PDR also gives an insight into his astonishing, unending range and natural ability to hit challenging notes at ease.

Famed for his seamless innovation and capacity to inject spark into his work, the lynchpin Ravi Bal once more serves up a pumped-up, beat-centric composition designed to take you by surprise on Naina Vale Teer (RBP Head Bop Mix). Despite the  unfamiliar surroundings, Hundal’s versatility shines through ensuring he does not play second-fiddle.

Lined with the boisterous buzz of the algozey is Nakhre (Ravi Bal Desi Mix) and an opportunity for the singer to vent his frustration and make it clear that enough is enough, the emotional-turmoil must end! Producer Bal slips in classy harmonium pieces and ties it all together with folk percussion full of inexplicable appeal.

Teri Fida sees the duo completely ease off the accelerator and create a graceful, easy-listening experience which neatly unites a traditional folk composition alongside a contemporary, minimal soundscape shaped by understated synths and all-around composed exploits on keys.

The ante is upped on  Hon Takre (Ravi Bal Karkoo Mix) where Tej Hundal shifts into combative mode as the vocalist engages a stranglehold on the RBP arrangement to ruthless effect! The pair produce another feat of agile, inspired execution on the urban-angled number coming in the form of Pehle Tor Di.

Accomplished songstress Rani Randeep harmoniously pitches in at the tail-end of album to join the lead protagonist for the scintillating party duet entitled Dollar Ta Pound (Ravi Bal Paisa Mix) with the “Wizard” Ravi Bal integral to making it rain! Diamond-cut chords galore, tumbi strewn wildly and signature RBP percussion will compel you to clap along as both singers perform at full-tilt. However, Tej Hundal’s ace in the hole, a jaw-dropping switch in singing octave takes centre stage and equips the chorus with extra firepower!

Ha Karde rhythmically concludes proceedings with its regimented backdrop and Hundal matching its punchiness with yet another display worth its weight in gold. As per the song, the only question that remains is whether his efforts gain approval?…

Please support the artists by legally purchashing Punjabian Da Raaj for only £3.99 from iTunes.

Follow me on Twitter @HarkBhambra

With his future in the business very much up in the air, fan-favourite Garry Sandhu is reunited with the producer responsible for Sandhu’s biggest hit thus far Tohar and joins forces with classy songstress Sudesh Kumari to pay homage to the folk duet legends Amar Singh Chamkila and Amarjot with their rendition of Ik Gal.

Again, like with his recent collaborative effort Brick alongside GV, Ik Gal has received overwhelming support from Garry’s loyal fanbase that has catapulted this desi tete-a-tete into the dizzy heights of the mainstream downloads chart!

Sandhu gives it a real go vocally to emulate the Chamkila swagger, adding that mischief and forthrightness whereas Kumari, as ever, is the harmonising factor and eloquently conveys her pent up frustration in her role as the voice of reason. On the musical front, DJ Dips has kept the composition traditional and opts for a barebones folk production with tumbi, banjo and dhol doing the major legwork to perhaps retain the original’s uncut, folk authenticity.

Ik Gal is now available to purchase via the iTunes link below.

Beware, Haneri (Storm) is set to cause widespread chaos and leave a path of destruction in its wake!

An ominous rumble in the air lingers as swirling winds charge forth and a volatile surge in pressure closes in… A STORM of unparalleled magnitude is brewing! Prepare for your senses to be engulfed by the colossal vocal chords of one Avtar Maniac; the raw, undiluted force behind Folk You and 2 Extreme. Following a uncharacteristic quiet spell on the sidelines apart from a brief yet significant appearance on Popsy’s Hyper (Khanda (Punjabi Di Pehchaan) and Nach Bhabiye Ni), the mercurial folk specialist has called upon illustrious producer and modern-age musical marvel Ravi Bal to provide the canvas for Haneri – a 4-track EP releasing via Moviebox that ought to come with a safety disclaimer such is the intensity of the sounds unleashed by the duo!

Holding nothing in reserve, Dhann Kaur (Ravi Bal Mix) is a signal of intent, a white-knuckle adrenaline rush that is set on its way in smouldering fashion by mighty Maniac over an equally forceful and unrestrained backing courtesy of Ravi Bal that is full of bold, sweeping percussion and extravagant sarangi pieces. The explosive vocals alongside an animated and compelling composition prove an overwhelming blend that builds up to a crescendo for Maniac to wax lyrical about the eye of the storm, the dominant Dhan Kaur herself!

Producer Ravi Bal opts to stay in the folk fast-lane with Aaja Makhana and Maniac is all too happy to oblige as his razor-sharp vocals gel in fine style on this signature offering from RBP. Keen to show that he can adapt to different musical styles, Avtar Maniac takes to the less conventional, more contemporary Pashaan Mitro with similar gusto and effortlessly negotiates the engaging rhythm inextricably crafted by Bal.

The singer further brings his folk A-game to Anakhi Punjabi and demonstrates his astonishing range, clarity and natural vocal ferocity on this hearty number. With the tempo cranked up a notch, Ravi Bal maintains an all-important bite to the percussion and produces a masterclass on keys on this pride-fuelled track which Maniac thrives upon.

The Maniac-RBP powerhouse ensures there is no let-up throughout proceedings. Beware, Haneri (Storm) is set to cause widespread chaos and leave a path of destruction in its wake!

Watch Dhann Kaur wreak havoc upon the masses as director Parmod Sharma Rana applies his touch on the visuals for the blistering Dhann Kaur (Ravi Bal Mix).

Haneri (Storm) will be available to purchase digitally on iTunes and on CD from your local Asian music store from 28th June 2012.

With the wind firmly in his sails following the storming success of singles Chak Dhen Geh and Gidheh Vich Nach, Gurbhej Brar’s debut solo album Panjabi Touch finally made its way to us and by early accounts has the hallmarks of a Bhangra blockbuster.

Going by the previous exploits of the three main components that form the spine of the project; these being lead protagonist Gurbhej Brar, chief production outfit Kaos Productions and guest producer Tru-Skool, we expected a folk-centric album with lung-busting performances across the board from Brar. However, as it turns out, Panjabi Touch digs deeper into the skillset of all involved and manages to unearth some delectable musical revelations too.

A series of synth chords sequenced in playful fashion bring in the enthusiastically up-tempo Ehna Maan Ni which sees Brar in spirited voice as he fires a few home truths in his own candid style over pulsating tumbi and purposeful algozey pieces. This full tilt tee-off is tailgated by the most recently released single in the run-up to the album. Many would have already heard the feel-good jam Giddheh Vich Nach with its dub styling, catchy composition and rapturous chorus drop that hasn’t yet lost its sheen.

At track 3 we witness a wish list track with the lyrics of Kaalah Ghagraa intended quite literally to entice a few handcrafted gifts from a kind well-wisher! The production is rich, heavy and highly-decorated to mirror the lavish items craved. The bassline is particularly heady and mandolin pieces intricate, perhaps used to extend the demanding theme. The brute-force vocals of Brar continue unabated on the Tru-Skool produced hip-hop doused Chak Dhen Geh that requires little introduction such has been its imprint on the scene.

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Whilst the marker is poised to cross off the 12^th month of 2011 and before the festive christmas songs send our brains to musical numbness, we thought it would be great to highlight some of the jewels from the Panjabi and Hindi music world that have surfaced this year. Successful as the year has been, the whittling down process to reach a list of the top 30 involved a lot of head-scratching and gruelling grunts to create a selection of our favourites which was eventually (mutually) agreed upon. The criteria for our final selection included evaluating the lyrical content, the innovation from the production/artist, the impact the track had on the consumer/public and of course, most importantly, whether the track brought us a ridiculous amount of enjoyment!

Comb through our selection below and drop us any comments (positive and of course negative) with your thoughts on our choices. Enjoy!

Number 30 (Released January 2011)
Nachhatar Gill - Akhiyaan Ch Paani
Vocals: Nachhatar Gill
Music: Gurmit Singh
Songwriter: S.M. Saadiq

With the album labelled as ‘The Return of the Superstar‘ Akhiyaan Ch Paani enters our selection at number 30. Set alight by Gurmit Singh, the two applied a melting composition and a created a melody which strung the chords of any listener who appreciates a sad song. With lyricist S.M. Saadiq penning down the story of a person who makes a sacrifice for their loved one, Nachhatar delivers another run-of-the-mill faultless vocal to manufacture a deep alluring number.
Click here to purchase Akhiyaan Ch Paani from the album Akhiyaan

Number 29 (Released May 2011)
Bups Saggu + Miss Pooja - Photo Rakh Ke
Vocals: Miss Pooja
Music: Bups Saggu
Songwriter: Tari Banwalipuria

There can be no argument about the breath of fresh air and zest injected into the scene by Bups Saggu upon the release of his debut solo offering Redefined. As it swiftly turned out, Photo Rakh Ke proved to be an overnight success and can only be considered a winning comeback for Miss Pooja. Her measured yet charming vocals gel wonderfully with the unique, refreshing composition strung together by Saggu and is elevated by the entrancing melody at the heart of this sprightly single.
Click here to purchase Photo Rakh Ke from the album Redefined

Number 28 (Released July 2011)
Mukhtar Sahota + Harbhajan Shera - Khazana

Vocals: Harbhajan Shera
Music: Mukhtar Sahota
Songwriter: Yaadwinder Pamma

Production extraordinaire and all-round musical mastermind Muktar Sahota together with Harbhajan Shera flipped the script with their collaborative effort Khazana back in July. Whilst the album has not received the widespread attention and coverage it so richly deserves, we firmly believe that it is an outstanding advert for implementing varied, opulent sounds from around the world with the traditional!

The title-track itself cherishes and celebrates Panjabi culture as Shera’s silky vocals stir up all the senses associated with Panjab and evoke wonderful memories.  Khazana has that much-admired Sahotas reggae-tip about it and Mukhtar has done a terrific job to mirror the desi lyrics with the sarangi-riffs and algozey.
Click here to purchase Khazana from the album Khazana

Number 27 (Released February 2011)
The Dhol Foundation + Saini Surinder - Desi Peeni
Vocals: Saini Surinder
Music: Johnny Kalsi
Songwriter: Saini Surinder

The fourth studio album the from The Dhol Foundation, Drum Struck provided us with the first real showing of 2011 from a vocalist who has fast become a favourite of ours and gone from strength to strength following his involvement on two tracks (the other being Naa Karde) for TDF’s album.

Desi Peeni is definitely a track for the lads as Saini Surinder delivers a razor-sharp performance over the percussive goodness arranged by Johnny Kalsi & Co. In addition to the obvious desi drum-factor, TDF’s records tend to have a live feel to them and Desi Peeni is no different with the drum kit coming into its own and the gorgeous guitar taking the edge off the thunderous beats.
Click here to purchase Desi Peeni from the album Drum Struck

Number 26 (Released October 2011)
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan + Anupama Raag - Nazar Se Nazar Mile
Vocals: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Anupama Raag
Music: Sajid, Wajid
Songwriter: Javed Akhtar

The formidable brother duo of Sajid and Wajid Ali create a soft dream of a track to fall into. Featuring for the first time in our Top 30 list, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan delivers a beautiful well-controlled vocal which is transporting him further into the playback singer starlight. Accompanied by Anupama Raag, the dholki, strings and acoustic guitar combo shouldn’t go down together if viewing on a piece of paper but surprisingly works a gem on this number. Minus what I thought was unnecessary A-ha’s, this track was a strong contender for one of the records of the year.
Click here to purchase Nazar Se Nazar Mile from the album Miley Na Miley Hum

Number 25 (Released January 2011)
Kulvinder Johal + Kaos Productions - Gubindhi (Remix)
Vocals: Kulvinder Johal
Music: Kaos Productions
Songwriter: Manjit Singh Samra

Released in the early weeks of 2011, we were never going to easily forget one of the biggest earthquaking remixes that have been registered on the Richter scale. With Kaos Productions attaching the deep drum-n-bass banger with dynamite, the duo expertly brought the original track (coincidentally produced by themselves) into a whole new dimension giving the track a real earthy and raw sound. To top it off, the track included a bit of dub to satisfy the many amongst us who appreciate a good reggae bassline. In at 25, the Gubindhi Remix was one of the best remixes of the year!
Click here to purchase the Gubindhi Remix

Number 24 (Released July 2011)
D-Sarb - Sahan
Vocals: D-Sarb
Music: D-Boy
Songwriter: Gill Ahmedpurwala

D-Sarb enjoyed a spectacular start to what we foresee will be a long and successful tenure in the industry with the release of the first of three EP instalments, Music ‘N’ Me Volume 1. Working in tandem with D-Boy, D-Sarb received an overwhelming response to his debut and the touching ballad Sahan in particular struck a chord with a huge audience; blown away by the home-grown phenomenon’s self-assured, vocal maturity and sheer ability to pull off an epic!
Click here to purchase Sahan from the album Music ‘N’ Me Volume 1 – EP

Number 23 (Released August 2011)
Gupsy Aujla + Saini Surinder - Bhangra
Vocals: Saini Surinder
Music: Gupsy Aujla
Songwriter: Saini Surinder

In at 23 it’s that brilliant, blossoming vocalist Saini Surinder who once again graces our countdown with a quite scintillating effort alongside one of the UK’s finest producers Gupsy Aujla. Right from the get-go this barnstormer of a track grips and enthuses as Gupsy’s furious dhol intro backs the flawless shehr from Saini. With its clean lyrics, tremendous production-values and an outstanding singing performance it’s incredibly difficult to resist the urge to play Bhangra over and over!
Click here to purchase Bhangra

Number 22 (Released January 2011)
Diljit + Honey Singh - Lak Twenty Eight Kudi Da
Vocals: Diljit
Music: Honey Singh
Songwriter: Anand Raj Anand

In at number 22 is the ever popular Lak Twenty Eight Kudi Da. With the music provided by the musical outcast Honey Singh, Diljit combined Honey’s talents aswell as Anand Raj Anand to create a track which took India by storm. Whilst the track is merited on its success throughout the year, the lyrical content is what let’s it slip down the rankings.
Click here to purchase Lak 28 Kudi Da

Number 21 (Released January 2011)
Sukhraj + Saint Soldier - Farmer Suicide
Vocals: Sukhraj + Saint Soldier
Music: Mani D
Songwriter: Sukhraj + Saint Soldier

Totally in contrast to the song above this one, Farmer Suicide was a song that opened eyes all over the globe, via good lyrics and music. Highlighting the current plight of farmers in Punjab, Saint Soldier and Sukhraj delivered lyrics that really struck an emotional nerve which was collated and executed perfectly by producer Mani D. Complemented with an excellent visual to the track, Farmer Suicide was an exceptional attempt at delivering a required message through the power of music.
Click here to purchase Farmer Suicide

Number 20 (Released May 2011)
G-Company + Ashok Gill - Nachna Nai Onda
Vocals: Ashok Gill
Music: G-Company
Songwriter: Jagga Singh Gill

Newcomer G-Company teamed up with seasoned vocalist and voice behind the smasher Moorni to give us a high-octane, dancefloor banger in Nachna Nai Onda. With its polished folk beats reminiscent of the likes of Tru-Skool and Panjabi MC, Gee’s dynamic debut effort deserves major praise to stand up to such legends. Whilst we would have liked more expansive lyricism, the celebratory premise of the track lends itself to familiar pursuits we suppose. On the music front, besides the dominant percussion, G-Company’s exploits on keys and tumbi do not go unnoticed on this definite floor-filler!
Click here to purchase Nachna Nai Onda from the album Folklore

Number 19 (Released October 2011)
Dalvinder Singh + Tarli Digital - Ishq
Vocals: Dalvinder Singh
Music: Tarli Digital
Songwriter: Dev Raj Jassal

Long-time collaborators Dalvinder Singh and Tarli Digital returned not too long ago with a gem of a single which was perhaps one of the few released this year that adopted a fresh new approach and it’s fair to say it worked a treat! Released on the independent label Sweet Peach Music and taken from Dalvinder’s forthcoming album Born To Singh, Ishq is a delicate blend of acoustic and jazz elements steered by soulful vocals that go hand-in-hand with the effortless, smooth vibe nurtured by the piano arpeggios, guitar riffs and mandolin. All in all this is a genuinely refreshing listen and fitting tribute to Ishq’s lyricist, the legendary late Dev Raj Jassal.
Click here to purchase Ishq

Number 18 (Released October 2011)
Lakhwinder Wadali - Sanwal Rangiye
Vocals: Lakhwinder Wadali
Music: Jatinder Jeetu
Songwriter: Wadali Brothers

Since Ravi Bal unearthed the brilliant Lakhwinder Wadali almost 8 years ago, the appreciators of great Sufi, Panjabi and classical music have been in awe to this day. When the extraordinary Naina De Buhe album dropped a few months ago, the track Sanwal Rangiye wasn’t one that created initial excitement. Now with time passing and the album receiving so many repeated playings, the record has grown on us extremely which is why it enters our collection at Number 18. A simply superb track.
Click here to purchase Sanwal Rangiye from the album Naina De Buhe (The Soulful Strings)

Number 17 (Released October 2011)
Saini Surinder - Thor
Vocals: Saini Surinder
Music: Angel (E3UK)
Songwriter: Saini Surinder

For the third time in our Top 30, we feature once again the excellent vocalist who goes by the name of Saini Surinder. This time teaming up with record label E3UK, Thor was featured on Simply Bhangra Volume 1 and further highlighted the excellent singing ability of the young songster. Expressing via an effortless shehr (intro), Saini continues to deliver onto a soft yet thumping number filled with continuous light dhol along with a few simplistic but effective harmonium and mandolin pieces.
Click here to purchase Thor from the album Simply Bhangra Volume 1

Number 16 (Released January 2011)
Aman Hayer, Angrej Ali, Benny Dhaliwal + Dev Dhillon - Ajj Nachna
Vocals: Aman Hayer + Angrej Ali + Benny Dhaliwal + Dev Dhillon
Music: Aman Hayer
Songwriter: Satti Khokhewalia

Up next is one of the early highlights of this calendar year, released all the way back in January and turned out to be a very solid entertainer! Serving as a prelude to Aman Hayer’s The Entourage, Ajj Nachna brought together the behemoth voice of Angrej Ali, rising talent Benny Dhaliwal, the hugely underrated vocal prowess of Dev Dhillon and The Entourage’s ring leader Aman Hayer. The track has an undeniable addictiveness to it with the keys and synths coupled with a fine, upbeat hook to form a compelling groove.
Click here to purchase Ajj Nachna from the album Ajj Nachna

Number 15 (Released August 2011)
Feroz Khan - Heeriye

Vocals: Feroz Khan
Music: Jaidev Kumar
Songwriter: Harman

Heeriye gave us lucky listeners the opportunity to witness the incredibly gifted Feroz Khan and Jaidev Kumar combine to brilliant effect.  Whilst the Pata Nahi Rabb Kehdeyan Rangan Ch Raazi OST was packed with quality of the highest order, Feroz Khan blew us away with his effortless execution on this romantic number. Just sit back and revel in this piece of impassioned, musical delight as Khan goes about his business alongside similarly stellar production from Jaidev Kumar!
Click here to purchase the album Pata Nahi Rabb Kehdeyan Rangan Ch Raazi OST

Number 14 (Released February 2011)
Satinder Sartaaj - Cheerey Waleea
Vocals: Satinder Sartaaj
Music: Jatinder Shah
Songwriter: Satinder Sartaaj

Taken from one of the albums of the year, Cheerey Wala Sartaaj, Master Sartaaj pens another mellifluous and harmonious melody and composition which combined so perfectly with the music from the architect behind the mixing desk, Jatinder Shah. The euphonic elements of the track really set the premise for the rest of the album creating a buzz throughout homes who appreciated the delightful and beautiful poetry from the 21st century modern day Panjabi/Sufi hero, Satinder Sartaaj.
Click here to purchase Cheerey Waalea from the album Cheerey Wala Sartaaj

Number 13 (Released February 2011)
DJ Vix + Bhinda Jatt + Surinder Shinda - Glassy Nachdi
Vocals: Bhinda Jatt + Surinder Shinda
Music: DJ Vix
Songwriter: Kala Nizampuri

Entering at Number 13 is another track from the start of the year which features DJ Vix, Surinder Shinda and the return of the California King, Bhinda Jatt. As we had predicted at the start of the year, it would take some pretty good going to beat this from forcing it out of our 2011 favourites. With lyrics written by Kala Nizampuri, the content was centred obviously around the nucleus of alcohol but what forced it up the charts was the unlikeliest collaboration of Shinda and Bhinda, with the hekh’s of the both artists setting the standard for what was to be the start of a great production by DJ Vix.
Click here to purchase Glassy Nachdi

Number 12 (Released September 2011)
Jazzy B + Kuldeep Manak + Yudhveer Manak + Sukshinder Shinda - Hukam
Vocals: Jazzy B + Kuldeep Manak + Yudhveer Manak
Music: Sukshinder Shinda
Songwriter: Jandu Littranwala

Earlier this year we witnessed a collaboration of unparalleled magnitude as Jazzy B lined up alongside the legendary late Great Ustaad Kuldeep Manak Ji, his son Yudhveer Manak and ever present as ever, the musical-mastermind Sukshinder Shinda on production. While the recent news of the Kaliyan da Badshah’s unfortunate passing was heart-breaking to say the least, the great man did not leave without a fond farewell with his contribution, perhaps fittingly so on his student, Jazzy B’s folk-heavy album Maharajas.

Hukam resurrects and centres on the folk epic of the warrior Dulla Bhatti’s quest to avenge his father and grandfather’s death at the hands of Mughal emperor Akbar. Despite not being at 100%, nothing can stop Manak Saab as he imperiously delivers another commendable performance. Jazzy B is emphatic in his role as the main protagonist and Yudhveer does a fine job as Dulla’s right-hand man, Mehru Posti on this rip-roaring Shinda composition.
Click here to purchase Hukam from the album Maharajas

Number 11 (Released November 2011)
Jr Dread + Amrita Virk - Jogi

Vocals: Amrita Virk
Music: Jr Dread
Songwriter: Malkeet

Nowadays we’re seldom treated to a Bhangra brew quite like Jogi. Jr Dread backs up Amrita Virk’s hellacious vocals with suitably raw, verging on, if not anthemic production and exercises his passion for dark, experimental sounds to devastating effect. With that said, this jaw-dropper of a track has generated a rather strong fan-following and it is by no means a surprise to find Jogi featuring prominently in the charts following its release well over a month ago! Jr Dread has completely revamped a folk composition and given it a new lease of life with an utterly demonic bassline and shown musical flair, drawing upon genres such as Drum and Bass, ragga and hip hop to give this banger oodles of oomph!
Click here to purchase Jogi

Number 10 (Released May 2011)
Dipps Bhamrah + KS Bhamrah - Mr Makhna
Vocals: KS Bhamrah
Music: Dipps Bhamrah
Songwriter: KS Bhamrah

In at ten is the collaboration between Dipps Bhamrah and his father, one of UK Bhangra’s longest servant, the legend that is Kulwant Bhamrah. The song itself was featured originally on Dipps’ own album Take One way back in 2002 which in our opinion, lacked any punch or conviction when compared against this revitalised 2011 release. With Jeeti providing DAW assistance and working his magic behind the mixing desk, the track was brought to life via the excellent talents by one of the finest percussionists from our industry, Mr Sunil Kalyan. The different elements blended together created a fun, sing-a-long, colourful Panjabi Bhangra track collaborating the best from the UK scene, typifying what our scene is capable of.
Click here to purchase Mr Makhna

Number 9 (Released June 2011)
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan + Tarli Digital - Tasveer
Vocals: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan
Music: Tarli Digital
Songwriter: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan

It comes as no surprise that the great Rahat Fateh Ali Khan features once again in our Top 30 capping off one of the most accomplishing and successful years as a recording artist. Carrying the torch passed on from his uncle, the late great Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Rahat has gracefully grasped the popularity set by his great elder and created a base for himself which has excelled him as one of the finest singers of our time.

Capping off almost a decade in the production world, Tarli Digital set alight Tasveer on the disc RFAK Sessions, a production worthy of more praise than it actually received. Written against the classic by Ustaad Nusrat Ji Tumhein Dillagi Bhool Jaani Padegi, the track collaborated perfectly soft hi-hat and snare percussion along with some perfect complimentary grand piano chords/pieces. What conquered the the track was of course the electric guitar which provided some scintillating solos equalling the standard set by Rahat’s faultless vocals, crowning off an excellent production.
Click here to purchase Tasveer from the album The RFAK Session (Remix)

Number 8 (Released July 2011)
Attaullah Khan Essakhelvi - Ni Oothaan Waale (Coke Studio)
Vocals: Attaullah Khan Essakhelvi
Music: Rohail Hyatt
Songwriter: Bari Nizami

Now for something a tad out of left-field but nevertheless an overwhelmingly stunning showcase of live music courtesy of the critically acclaimed Coke Studio. On the off-chance that you haven’t come across this fascinating live performance venture that celebrates the musical diversity and heritage of Pakistan, allow Attaullah Khan’s Ni Oothaan Waale to kick-start your CS experience!

With Rohail Hyatt pulling the strings on production, Khan’s distinguished, rustic voice is aligned wonderfully with the live elements; intelligently meshing the folk poetry with contemporary undercurrents whilst preserving the cautionary tale of the precariousness of love. There is so much going for this collective effort, from the hip, electric-edged guitar riffs, the die-downs to the rippling background female harmonies and inspired violin in the breakdown… Absolutely awe-inspiring!
Click here to purchase Ni Oothaan Waale from the album Coke Studio Sessions (Season 4)

Number 7 (Released September 2011)
Saini Surinder + Kaos Productions - Mundra
Vocals: Saini Surinder
Music: Kaos Productions
Songwriter: Raja Gulabgaria

Having both made their presence known in our countdown (one of which with multiple hits to their name), Saini Surinder and Kaos Productions felt it necessary to further stamp their mark on 2011 by laying down the gauntlet with Mundra. We’ll get to it straight away, Kaos Productions know how to make a mean, good ol’ fashioned reggae bassline and their percussion is nigh on immaculate – an unbelievable richness to it! Throw in our dear Saini Surinder equipped with great lyrics into this concoction and we have one heck of a single on our hands. If the reggae-dub somehow doesn’t get you buzzing, we’re adamant ingredients such as the dramatic sarangi pieces, algozey-induced tempo switch-up and synth chords/keys will!

While being staggered at the sheer quality Saini Surinder has been able to consistently serve up, we’re perhaps instinctively protective of the singer’s sheer talent and just hope he continues to work alongside producers that are capable of doing justice to his phenomenal vocals. Props to E3UK Records for snapping him up and making the music a foremost priority. Back to Mundra and though the song itself is off the hook, many were left somewhat underwhelmed at the half-baked, concept video that unlike the audio, failed to hit the sweet-spot. Definitely one of the contenders for Bhangra track of the year… Crank. It. Up!
Click here to purchase Mundra

Number 6 (Released May 2011)
Garry Sandhu + DJ Dips - Tohar
Vocals: Garry Sandhu
Music: DJ Dips
Songwriter: Garry Sandhu

Hitting our top 30 at number 6 features one of the popular and talked about artists of 2011, Mr Garry Sandhu. Whilst not possessing the greatest of vocal chords, Mr Sandhu has capitalised his position since he first appeared in August of 2010. Offering credit where its due, the controversy regarding his residency a couple months ago hopefully should not taint his success over the past year. The song which we’ve chosen surfaced 6 months ago and was featured alongside producer DJ Dips.

With simplistic and understandable lyrics, the success of the track created shudders around dance floors around the UK as the clean and uncomplicated production proved to be quite a profitable combination. Without over-exhausting the UK, it would be interesting to see where Garry’s avenue lead to next year, and one of the big questions would be, could Garry Sandhu ever make it in his home shores of Panjab?
Click here to purchase Tohar

Number 5 (Released June 2011)
JK + Tru Skool - JK Boliyan
Vocals: JK
Music: Tru Skool
Songwriter: Traditional/JK

If we had allowed for more than one track to feature from one single album release, the final standings would have been dominated by a certain young talent who hails from the city of Derby. Since his hehk first emerged in January 2009, Jatinder JK Kumar has procrastinated over delivering his British and European fans an album they could delectate their ear drums with. 18 months later and alongside VIP Records, JK released a stonker of an album in Gabhru Panjab Dha.

Filled with the rawest of percussion alongside traditional mandolin and tumbi pieces, JK Boliyan showcased perfectly what UK born talent can achieve and whilst some will say his ranges and tones are similar to a certain Jazzy B, to not give credit where it’s due to a talent who has been nurtured and has learned the ropes properly would be blasphemous. This track screams live Boliyan straight from the get-go which has been perfectly executed by the producing talent and musician, Tru Skool, a simply superb attempt at creating traditional Panjabi folk boli straight from the English Midlands.
Click here to purchase JK Boliyan from the album Gabru Panjab Dha

Number 4 (Released November 2011)
Amrinder Gill + Dr. Zeus - Judaa
Vocals: Amrinder Gill
Music: Dr. Zeus
Songwriter: Raj Kakra

Well, what can we say about Amrinder Gill’s work with Dr. Zeus that hasn’t already been said? Simply put, there aren’t enough superlatives to describe this grand collaboration! The singer’s bold decision to ally himself with Zeus, another UK-based producer following his successful 3-album stint with Sukshinder Shinda was initially met with raised eyebrows but my word did the pair reap the rewards with the downright enthralling album Judaa.

Again with the wealth of quality on show from start to finish, we found it terribly difficult to restrict our selection to just one song from the release; however the title-track Judaa’s heart-wrenching lyrics, penned by legendary writer Raj Kakra tipped the scales in its favour. With Zeus employing an electronic/synth style for the most part, Amrinder’s melancholy vocals sit harmoniously above the delicate arrangement which, if our Bollywood memory serves correctly takes a cue from Dil to Pagal’s Are Re Are for its string pieces, adding to the nostalgic, conflict-riddled aura implied by the stormy backdrop.
Click here to purchase Judaa from the album Judaa

Number 3 (Released July 2011)

Kailash Kher + Shazia Manzoor + Ravi Bal – Sohniye Yaadan
Vocals: Kailash Kher + Shazia Manzoor
Music: Ravi Bal
Songwriter: Satti Khokhewalia

When the soundtrack to the Lollywood (Pakistani film industry) movie Love Mein Ghum surfaced this past summer and boasted a goliath line-up with the likes of Ali Zafar, Shazia Manzoor, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Kailash Kher and Ravi Bal to name a few, we had to take full notice! Our intrigue with what this star-studded cohort had up their sleeves was unequivocally answered with much aplomb on the epic Sohniye Yaadan.

Master-crafted by none other than music supremo Ravi Bal, this colossal ballad crooned by playback singer-extraordinaire Kailash Kher and further ameliorated by Shazia Manzoor’s guest vocals is by far and away one of the most goosebump-inducing tracks of the year! Kher is at his earthy, heartfelt best on a track that seems has been conceived and executed to the exact specification of the singers involved; a testament to Bal and his meticulous work ethos. The subdued percussion is set amongst spellbinding flute pieces, desolate chords and punctuated by astounding electric guitar implementation… Flawless!
Click here to purchase Sohniye Yaadan from the album Love Mein Ghum

Number 2 (Released July 2011)
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan + Shreya Ghoshal - Teri Meri
Vocals: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan + Shreya Ghoshal
Music: Himesh Reshammiya + Pritam Chakraborthy
Songwriter: Shabbir Ahmed + Neelesh Mishra

Since we first heard Teri Meri off the Bodyguard we knew that this was going to be an instant hit. Those intrinsic horns began what was to be the biggest track to fall from a Bollywood OST this year. What was so special about this was the beautiful blend of simplistic beat production which allowed the two greats, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Shreya Ghoshal to take the centrestage.

This heart-melting number starts slow and soft with lush yet quirky violin and bagpipe-esque orchestration in the background. Reshammiya’s subtle, detached music ebbs and flows dreamily for the two standout vocalists to triumphantly outpour with emotion. While Shreya sings at low pitch, Rahat juxtaposes her magnificently, reinforcing the sense of  distance with high pitch and brings moving Sufi alaaps to the table in his trademark, transcending rendition. Though Khan has the major role in this poignant ballad, Ghoshal produces a silky, virtuous performance that is every much as influential on this haunting but undoubtedly idyllic experience. In at Number 2, it’s the spellbinding Teri Meri from the OST, Bodyguard.
Click here to purchase Teri Meri from the OST Bodyguard

Number 1 (Released November 2011)
Gurbhej Brar + Tru Skool - Chak Dhen Geh
Vocals: Gurbhej Brar
Music: Tru Skool
Songwriter: Surjit Sandhu

Well we’ve finally reached our number 1 for the year, the whittling down from over 140 tracks from 2011 was tricky to say the least. Juggling to and fro, the order of our top 30 was chucked more up and down than an elevator but we we’re convinced that as soon as this track had dropped that it was in the running to be the track of the year. The anticipation from the promo’s alone caused hysteria from the four corners of the Bhangra internet fraternity and with VIP Records providing the catalyst and platform for the release itself, we knew what was about to happen.

As we’ve long become accustomed to, Tru Skool is a catalyst for explosive consequences and the fittingly titled Chak Dhen Geh categorically propels the roof from the moment Gurbhej Brar unloads! There is little subtlety about the manner in which the menacing Brar vocally steamrollers over this hair-raising anthem and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Conversely, what makes this the brilliant track we so fervently admire is Tru Skool’s intricate nuances and slick integration of assorted sounds such as the funky James Brown additions, brass samples and that ridiculous, whiplash-inducing bassline. Another key component contributing to the track’s unyielding success is how Brar and Tru Skool combine to leave no stone unturned and fully commit towards creating that all important heated crescendo so as to ensure the chorus-drop and hook deliver maximum mayhem!
Click here to purchase Chak Dhen Geh

Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! Jr Dread’s latest release Jogi features the vociferous, yet vastly underrated vocal prowess of Amrita Virk and is a track coursing with uncompromising attitude! From the music producer that gave us the electric-guitar infused Galliyan, the Drum and Bass flavoured Jaan Toh Pyaari and the quirky Tere Heer Nu that all featured on The Debut in 2010, Jogi once more reflects Jr Dread’s bold decision to veer away from the usual ingredients and instead inject musical diversity into Bhangra. On this occasion, he has opted to throw raw desi folk, ragga, hip hop and DnB into the smouldering pot and come up trumps with a BEAST of a track! Describing the thought process behind his new work, Birmingham-based Jr Dread explains:

This new song represents an overall new sound I’m trying to attain. Something much darker and experimental, melding genres into one song to create a wholly new sound I’ve never tried

Bearing that in mind, prepare your ears for an overwhelming onslaught as Virk’s imposing vocals go head-on with Tubsy’s juggernaut percussion! They are laced with a devastating bassline, livewire algozey and tumbi, flawlessly complemented by harmonium pieces topped with a chorus-drop that will plunge you deep into the heart of a pure, unadulterated 94BPM heaviness-fest! For me, the final drop perfectly punctuates the track’s potency with a stirring, underground-inspired climax! Check out the video to Jogi for yourself and please support the artist by purchasing the single which is now available via iTunes on Hi-Tech Music.

Updated with iTunes link

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Narinder Biba + Hardev Dilgir - Chandigarh Rehan Waliye
What a classic from the year 1968 which makes the song more than 40 years old now. Produced by Bhulla Ram Chann and features on many albums including Hits of Narinder Biba, please enjoy one of my ultimate favourite folk panjabi tracks.