Mahmood Khan/ Rarity


BY NARENDRA KUSNUR 

Mahmood Khan/ Rarity

Label: Self-released 

Rating: *** 1/2


Settled in Australia, Pakistan-born Mahmood Khan has had a pretty eclectic track record. He's recorded with the late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, forayed into jazz and classical crossover, and also tasted success in mainstream pop.

His latest EP Rarity sees him focus on dance-pop, with reggae and reggaeton flavours peppering most songs. Five of the six songs are English, the other one being in Urdu. There's a 1980s-style feel-good vibe about this selection, and the guitars and brass lend vibracy.

The opening track 'Automation' sets the tempo with its reggae-dance sound, perfect for playing at a 
beach party. "I like the way you feel", he sings, as the brass gently caresses the song's backdrop. The first single 'Battle Is Uphill' has shades of slower-tempo Bee Gees, with the choruses adding to the charm.

The Urdu 'Chal Dil Mere' has the vibrant lines "Chal le dil mere le chal wahaan, tere pyaar ka jahaan ho caravan, tu chaahe kahin ho reh bas tu ab, sab kuch sahi jahaan tu hai basaa". It's got a thumping bassline and an infectious groove that makes you sing along. Very loop-worthy track.

Like he does towards the end of 'Chal Dil Mere', Mahmood keeps repeating the catchphrase on the reggaeton-influenced 'Meaning Of Life'. The title track and 'No Feelin When You're Gone' are simple, catchy pop tunes.6

The new EP in some ways is an apt follow-up to last year's You And I On A Drive and Imaginary Friend. There's a certain consistency in melodic style and overall feel of the album. If you're into good, car-friendly or chill-out time pop, these releases are worth a check.




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