Coke Studio releases the fifth episode from Season 11 titled ‘MAUJ’

Coke Studio proudly released the fifth episode from Season 11 titled ‘MAUJ’ featuring “Malang” by Sahir Ali Bagga and Aima Baig, “Daastan-e-Moomal Rano” by The Sketches featuring Faqir Zulfiqar and Bhagat Bhooro Laal, and “Dil Hai Pakistani” by Mangal, Darehan, Shayan and Ali Azmat. Produced by Zohaib Kazi and Ali Hamza.

Much like the name suggests, “Malang” raves about passion as the ultimate expression of love. The complimentary energies of Sahir Ali Bagga and Aima Baig in this track give a whole new dimension to the momentum at play. Coupled with the mirthful claps, the song welcomes you to its relentlessly upbeat soundscape. As the sonic build-up swings with the vocal harmonies and its arrangement, it casts the net even wider with the Bansuri and its sporadic Banjo beats. A modern adaption of Saraiki folk classic, “Malang’s” diverse musical elements and the zesty groove makes for a spellbinding festive mix.

“Dastaan-e-Moomal Rano” is a dauntless statement on modern folk-music experience from the poetic journal of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. Like Moomal Rano’s romantic tragedy, the track’s composition mirrors a theatrical tale filled with rich soulful vocals of Saif Samejo and Bhooro Laal’s Bhagati (devotee) trill. The musical landscape is explored in depth, capturing the true essence of Sindhi folk with the sound of Narr and the chanting beats of Kartal. “Dastaan-e-Moomal Rano” engages one with the folklore of Moomal and Rano and the enticing yet, complicated side of desire.

“Dil Hai Pakistani” is a tribute to the simplicity of native Balochis. It opens with the deep, cyclic overtone vocals of Mangal spread on the rhythmic beat of the Damboora as he describes the universal emotions of beauty and love. The sound fades only to soar again with Ali Azmat’s composition that has been inspired by the Balochi compositions. As the anthem-like rhythm builds up against the jagged guitar riff, the shifting tempos bust open a parallel musical world. Penned by Ali Azmat and one of the most respected lyricists of the last decade, Sabir Zafar, “Dil Hai Pakistani” is an homage to the passion of Pakistanis.