Chup!

Concept

The album opens with the song 'Chup' which is a sweet, folksy song that packs a jazzy punch because of the use of the trumpet, played by Hildegunn. It has very simple lyrics yet the song is very endearing. 'Chup' is followed by 'Rona Chor Diya' which packs a far stronger punch. The next track 'Kabhi Na Kabhi' has darker undertones, it evokes images of old black and white films and would be perfect for an indie film soundtrack.

Paimana Bitte' is a traditional folk song is sung in Pashto and Dari and it brings home the charm of great world music that it strikes a chord to someone who can't understand the language. Zeb and Haniya out do themselves on this track, and Hildegunn's use of the horn is fantastic. It draws to a whispery close all too soon! With this song, Zeb and Haniya have proved that Pakistani music can be produced in an avant-garde manner using regional languages, and one hopes more musicians follow their example instead of constantly warbling badly accented English songs. The next track 'Kahaan' is fairly forgettable and it highlights the only issue I have with the album; that listening to it from start to finish makes it feel slightly monotonous. Chal Diye' has an absolutely beautiful guitar arrangement. 'Ahaan' is another track to keep an ear out for this alternative pop song.

'Seh Na Sakay' is another song with an old-world feel to it, like 'Kabhi Na Kabhi' which features early on in the album. The last two songs on the album are 'Aitebar' and 'Ban Kay Touri Jogan'. 'Aitebar' is an instant classic and here the vocals suddenly sound so much more grown up, even seductive. The song's been complemented by a fantastic video directed by Saqib Malik, who has showcased the concept fantastically through dance. The video, shot in a gorgeous haveli, shows a couple dancing to symbolize their relationship, until the girl closes the door (literally!) on it. Zeb and Haniya look gorgeous as they stand.

Track listing

All music written & composed by Haniya Aslam.

Personnel

All information is taken from the CD.