tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48026296450415303842024-02-07T03:18:28.645+00:00Sari-Clad SpeakersUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger266125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-68996456896760106112015-02-03T12:27:00.000+00:002015-02-03T12:34:52.941+00:00Foji - Ek Peg<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Foji, the singer who staged a bhangra flash mob in Birmingham, has released the video for his latest single.<i> Ek Peg</i> features the vocals of Ravi Bal and is the first single from his forthcoming album.<br />
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As the title suggests, <i>Ek Peg</i> is a drinking song. However, unlike the usual bhangra songs about drinking, it's more a warning about the dangers of drinking rather than the enjoyment. The video makes some jokes and differs from other bhangra videos with it's lack of female backing dancers or models.<br />
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Despite these differences, I found the song a little monotonous. Ravi Bal's vocal are good, but as someone who doesn't drink to excess, <i>Ek Peg</i> was lost on me. Will it change the drinking habits of the Punjabi community? Probably not, but well done Foji for making an effort. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-76938432949488171722015-02-01T19:45:00.002+00:002015-02-01T19:45:15.021+00:00Bhangruary<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It’s time for Bhanguary on Sari-Clad Speakers. The whole month of February will be a special online event devoted to all things bhangra, with more dhol beats than you can shake a stick at!<br />
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Over the next 28 days I'll be digging out golden oldies, revisiting modern classics and introducing you to some brand new ones. I'll also look at the people making bhangra and how the influence of Bhangra has spread all over the world. <br />
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#Bhangruary - putting the brua into February! </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-15010707600393844792014-11-29T18:51:00.005+00:002014-11-29T18:51:47.849+00:00Strictly Come Bollywood Dancing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Strictly Come Dancing, BBC 1's Saturday night family show, is going round the world this week. The couples are dancing to music which reference different countries including Austria, America and Amsterdam. The pro dance is to be a big Bollywood number in collaboration with Bolly Flex. Two of the pros, Janette Manrara and Iveta Lukosiute have danced Bollywood before when they were contestants on <i>So You Think You Can Dance. </i><br />
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I'm curious as to what music will be used for the Bollywood number. Hopefully the BBC has learnt from <a href="http://saricladspeakers.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/the-bbc-brings-bizet-to-bollywood-via.html">Carmen</a> and will stay away from old cliches like <i>Jai Ho</i> and Panjabi Mc's <i>Mundiya To Bach Ke. </i>Representing Bollywood on prime time television is a huge privilege and a good track could make all the difference.<br />
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No Bollywood songs, or music with a Desi touch are being used for the main couple dances. But if Trent, Pasha, Brendan or any other Strictly pros want to do a Latin or Ballroom routine to some South Asian music, here are some of my suggestions.<br />
<i> </i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i></i></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: large;">Om Shanti Om - Main Agar Kahoon</span><br />
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Bollywood composers rarely use time signatures with three beats in a bar. <i>Main Agar Kahoon </i>from the film <i>Om Shanti Om</i> is an exeption. It's fast pace and romantic lyrics make it perfect for a Viennese Waltz. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Chori Chori Sapno Mein - Chal Meri Bhai</span><br />
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This song from the early naughties classic <i>Chal Meri Bhai </i>was a typical escapist romantic number. I think this would make a very cute cha cha.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bina Mistry - Hot Hot Hot</span><br />
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Mark Ramprakash's salsa was one of my favourite salsas on Strictly. He danced to The Merrymen's <i>Feeling Hot Hot Hot.</i> Believe it or not a Hindi version exists, which was used at the end of <i>Bend it Like Beckham</i>.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Shabd - Sholon Si </span><br />
<br /><i> </i><span class="st"><em></em></span><span class="st"><em></em> </span> <br />
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<br /><i> </i><span class="st"><em></em></span><span class="st"><em></em> </span> <br />
The film <i>Shabd</i> didn't do very well at the box office, despite starring Ashwariya Rai. The soundtrack wasn't anything special, but <i>Sholon Si</i> stood out. It's a full on party dance, which makes it perfect for a samba.<br />
<br /><i> </i><span class="st"><em></em></span><span class="st"><em></em> </span> <br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Barfi- Aashiyan</span><br />
<br /><i> </i><span class="st"><em></em></span><span class="st"><em></em> </span> <br />
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<br /><i> </i><span class="st"><em></em></span><span class="st"><em></em> </span> <br />
There's alot going on in this song. It changes pace and feel several times. It's romantic, cute and sweet. I think it would make an excellent American Smooth or even a show dance.<br />
<br /><i> </i><span class="st"><em></em></span><span class="st"><em></em> </span> <br />
What other Desi songs should be played on the ballroom floor?<br /><i> </i><span class="st"><em></em></span><span class="st"><em></em> </span> <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-73108750291108638702014-09-03T11:57:00.002+01:002014-09-03T11:59:33.975+01:00Tigerstyle - Kawan 2 Remix EP<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Tigerstyle are getting ready to release the Kawan 2 Remix EP, which is out tomorrow. Bikram Singh and Gunjan's reinterpretation of their own modern classic has at last received the Digi-Bhang treatment. <br />
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The remix version of <i>Kawan 2</i> is a great EDM track. It has depth, sparkle and three impressive drops. However, for me <a href="http://saricladspeakers.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/another-listen-of-bikram-singhs-kawan.html">the original <i>Kawan</i> remix</a> works better than the remix of <i>Kawan 2. </i>The vocals and lyrics are an important in both versions of <i>Kawan. </i>When Bikram and Gunjan sing together, it's gorgeous. But in this remix of <i>Kawan 2, </i>the vocals were cut substantially and I missed them. <br />
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The remix has <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTQTxXJe1P4">a video. </a>Its dark mood mirrors the track and the two work well together. It is impressive and simple, two things other Bhangra producers should be aiming for in their videos. <br />
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There are three other remixes on on the EP and these are the real surpise. Rather than hand over Kawan 2 to other producers to remix, as with the <i>Digi-Bhang </i>singles, Tigerstyle have released tracks that didn't quite make it to release originally. Delhi 2 Dublin's interpretation of <i>Ki Faida</i> has a lightness and bounce to it that works well. In an email Pops said this missed the deadline for the original <i>Ki Faida</i> release, but was so good it needed to be released. <i>Gidhe Vich, Gidhe Vich </i>is a track that solidly hits the mark. This was dropped from <i>Mystics, Martyrs and Maharajahs</i> in favour of the reggaeton mix, but I live this version better. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-49855751094270165162014-08-26T18:50:00.000+01:002014-08-26T18:50:28.499+01:00Looking Back At Desi Beats on BBC Radio 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFdIAtNhZePSHebvGvWyHIxI2dVxujhTpVNJdQY46F5C-0qn6-fL6TvNaTMNQ_I5od8FMuRWKZVuOPBbGEAiKuZ7OCojDCnDM9-HFF_xpbDHOXItYHYZ44ZT843CnTPQjDDGSbk1GCBC8/s1600/bobby+nihal+tracklistings+first+show.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFdIAtNhZePSHebvGvWyHIxI2dVxujhTpVNJdQY46F5C-0qn6-fL6TvNaTMNQ_I5od8FMuRWKZVuOPBbGEAiKuZ7OCojDCnDM9-HFF_xpbDHOXItYHYZ44ZT843CnTPQjDDGSbk1GCBC8/s1600/bobby+nihal+tracklistings+first+show.jpg" height="279" width="320" /></a></div>
BBC Radio 1 will broadcast the final Desi Beats show early tomorrow morning. The show has been broadcasting for over 12 years. During that time, the show withstood changes in schedules, presenters and music trends.<br />
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Put together by the BBC, Bobby Friction and Nihal won a <a href="http://www.asiansinmedia.org/news/article.php/radio/54">Sony Award</a> a few months after the show launched. When it broadcast from 9pm on a Wednesday evening, the show had more listeners that the <a href="http://www.asiansinmedia.org/news/article.php/radio/666">whole of Sunrise Radio or the BBC Asian Network</a>. Bobby Friction and Nihal even launched their own compilation CD. Through the listen back feature the duo had fans all over the world.<br />
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Thanks to the brilliant <a href="http://archive.org/web/web.php">Wayback Machine</a>, track listings are available for many shows including the early ones. It's like opening a mini time capsule. Not only is it interesting to see what music was played at the time, but also which artists are still around and making music today. Tigerstyle, DJ Swami, and Tarli Digital all featured on the first show and are still in the industry.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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The show was known for finding new artists and launching their careers. Raghav, Jay Sean and M.I.A all appeared on the show before they hit the charts. This was in an era before facebook, myspace, youtube or SoundCloud. Without social media, it was harder for artists to get their work heard or fans to listen to it. <br />
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The most important thing the show did was to normalise Desi music and bring it to an international audience in a way that no other radio station managed to do. Bobby Friction and Nihal had many listeners from non-Asian backgrounds. The show smashed stereotypes and proved Asian music was much more than just Bollywood and Bhangra. <br />
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Thanks for the music Radio 1. I won't be awake at 2am, but I'll be listening back for the last time with a tissue at the ready. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-16039360524272103642014-08-15T23:19:00.000+01:002014-08-16T23:21:29.846+01:00David Starfire - Transformation<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<iframe seamless="" src="http://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=3915024904/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/minimal=true/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 350px; width: 350px;"><a href="http://davidstarfiremusic.bandcamp.com/album/transformation">Transformation by david starfire music</a></iframe><br />
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David Starfire, whose grandfather was a famous horn player in New Orleans, has released a new EP.<i> Transformation </i>was inspired by transformational events in David's life.<br />
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There are four tracks on the EP featuring 15 exotic instruments including the zurna, koto, sarangi and daburka. The theme is psychelic world music meets hip hop with a lot of bass. There is an exploratory vibe to <i>Transformation. </i>The first track on the EP, <i>Darshana,</i> is particularly interesting due to the structure and changed is pace. <br />
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<i>Transformation </i>has been released on David's own label Amrita Recordings and is available to download free for three weeks <a href="http://davidstarfiremusic.bandcamp.com/album/transformation">here</a>. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-66736427645211735962014-08-05T17:03:00.001+01:002014-08-05T17:03:54.125+01:00Rimshox - Ambersariya<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Rimshox has put a new track on his SoundCloud page. The Newcastle based producer has remixed <i>Ambersariya</i> from the film <i>Fukrey.</i> Rimshox has kept Sona Mohapatra's vocals intact and added his own effects over the top. The remix works well. It has a light summery quality to it with a chilled out vibe.<br />
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Rimshox has promised a download, so hopefully it will be out soon. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-44115206780343952822014-07-15T21:16:00.000+01:002014-07-15T21:16:09.367+01:00Take Five: Unreleased Tracks<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's an ongoing joke that the release dates of Asian music albums, especially Bhangra ones, suffer from Indian timing. But some of them never even get properly released. Here are five tracks that have never been officially for sale.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">DJ Vips - Udeekan</span><br />
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<iframe frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/158846136&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true" width="100%"></iframe> <br />
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<i>Udeekan</i> was the title track to <i>Party Time 2</i> by DJ Vips, a follow up to the successful <i>Party Time</i>. Like many Bhangra albums, the release date got pushed back until it just disappeared. The track got huge amounts of airplay back in 2006, but it's still a mystery as to why it was never officially released. <br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Punk-A-Wallahs - Desi on the Streets of Calcutta</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="90" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//media.myspace.com/play/song/desionthestreetsofcalcutta-25083598-24884783" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="300"></iframe><a href="https://myspace.com/pathaan/music/song/desionthestreetsofcalcutta-25083598-24884783">DesiOnTheStreetsOfCalcutta</a> from <a href="https://myspace.com/pathaan">PATHAAN</a> on <a href="https://myspace.com/">Myspace</a>.<br />
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Getting permission to use Ananda Shankar's <i>Streets of Calcutta</i> in this remix to release it would probably be impossible. This is probably the reason why Pathaan aka the Punk-A-Wallahs never released it. It's a great remix, keeping the funky vibe of the original but adding some modern touches. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Enalay - Galla Gooria / Sky High</span><br />
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From the girl group formerly known as Rouge, <i>Sky High</i> was the track that would relaunch them to success as Enalay. It got airplay on Radio 1 in prime slots from Scott Mills and Nihal at the beginning of 2012, but was never released. The big relaunch never happened and the group's twitter profile has been inactive since 2012. Perhaps the girls were too busy with their day jobs as a doctor and dentist.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Goodness Gracious Me - Kiss Your Massi</span><br />
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It's a shame this song wasn't even fully made, let alone released. From the Goodness Gracious Me reunion, this spoof of<i> </i>Mary Poppins was brilliant. This version of <span class="st"><em>Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious</em> was my favourite. The sing-a-long lyrics were a nice touch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="st">Sharmaji - Radha Prepares</span></span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<span class="st"><iframe allowfullscreen="" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="90" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//media.myspace.com/play/song/radha-prepares-with-samita-25347231-25148416" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="300"></iframe><a href="https://myspace.com/davesharma/music/song/radha-prepares-with-samita-25347231-25148416">Radha Prepares with Samita</a> from <a href="https://myspace.com/davesharma">Sharmaji--Sub Swara--Low Motion Records</a> on <a href="https://myspace.com/">Myspace</a>.</span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<span class="st">Featuring the vocals of Sunita Sinha, <i>Radha Prepares</i> appeared on Sharmaji's myspace page at the end of 2007. It's subtle, but dark and engaging. I hoped it would be released on a compilation album or as free download, but it sadly never was. </span><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-91823513188467264602014-06-24T20:24:00.002+01:002014-06-24T20:24:28.616+01:00Lovely & Monty Show Support For Germany<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Lovely and Monty, two brothers who make German Bhangra, are once again supporting German football. The two taxi drivers have release a song called <i>Diesmal</i>...!, which states that this time it's Germany's turn to win the World Cup.<br />
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Like their last football song, <i><a href="http://saricladspeakers.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/bhangra-for-germany-at-euro-2012.html">Oh Germany We Love You</a>,</i> <i>Diesmal...! </i>is in German but definitely has Punjabi roots. There is a huge novelty value hearing a German language Bhangra song. I like how the duo decorate themselves in the colours of the German flag, even incorporating it onto the turban. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-49503906062840017962014-05-26T19:31:00.003+01:002014-05-26T19:31:57.292+01:00Take Five: Goodness Gracious Me<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Tonight the legenddary codeey show <i>Goodness Gracious Me</i> returns to our screens to celebrate BBC Two's 50th birthday. Along with great characters such as Smita Smitten and Mr Everything Comes From India, I always looked forward to the songs. Here are five that have stuck in my mind. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Kiss My Chuddies </span><br />
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From the Bhangra Muffins <i>Kiss My Chuddies</i> was an original song from the very first television episode. It summed up everything about the Asian rude boy of the time. Shot outdoors it was visually funny and contains the unforgettable image of a teletubbie kissing Kulvinder Ghir. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Punjabi Girl</span><br />
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A parody of Aqua's <i>Barbie Girl,</i> <i>Punjabi Girl</i>
was one of the funniest songs the show produced. Featuring the now real
life couple Meera Syal and Sanjeev Baskar as Barbie and Ken, the song charted I
preferred the radio version as it was closer to the original Aqua version
and the lyrics seemed much more shocking. <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hindi People </span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/qlPWRUJud2k?rel=0" width="400"></iframe><br />
From the second series, this cover of Pulp's <i>Common People</i> looked at the fashion of being Indian and adopting certain aspects of the culture. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Club Nirvana</span><br />
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The Guru's sung about <i>Club Nirvana</i> while they admired younger women. A cover of <i>Club Tropicana</i> by Wham!, it parodied the video as well as the song. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I Know Him So Well</span><br />
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Featuring a young Amanda Holden as the white girlfriend, this duet perfectly sums up two sides of an Asian man. <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Bonus: Bhangra Man</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/4Rp7CktkyVY?rel=0" width="533"></iframe><br />
Technically not a song, but music related, <i>Bhangra Man</i> was a character that was popular in the radio shows didn't appear until the third series of the television show. The idea of having special powers that involve dancing and Channi Singh's trousers is hilarious. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-50045433808857272332014-05-20T14:57:00.000+01:002014-05-20T14:57:10.027+01:00Circle of Sound Release Anti Hero<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Circle of Sound, made up of sarod player Soumik Datta and drummer Bernhard Schimpelsberger, have released their second album<i>. Anti Hero</i> features special guests Nitin Sawhney and Anoushka Shankar.<br />
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The release is five tracks long. It's a mix of Indian music melded with contemporary vocals and electronics. In an interview with the <a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/features/soumik-datta-where-east-meets-west-in-music-9399194.html">Independent </a>Soumik said "I don't think there's been another album out there like it. This is not
chilled-out lounge music. It is an anti-chill-out album with edge." <br />
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<span class="userContent">Included with the tracks are lyrics and some impressive artwork done by Soumik himself. According to the Circle of Sound Facebook page "The artwork carries the idea of the album. It
shows the anti hero in his world, in free fall. A world with nothing to
hold onto. We wanted to move away from the conventional
approach of doing artwork with instruments but to offer the listener a
visual gate into our music." </span><br />
<br />Download <i>Anti Hero</i> from www.cosmusic.tv. It is free to download, but you will need to share on Facebook or Twitter. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-8545527765195703892014-05-14T21:57:00.001+01:002014-05-14T21:57:30.375+01:00Talal Qureshi - Tough Love<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Talal Qureshi, whose music was called the sound of the future by Bobby Friction, has unveiled the first track from his upcoming EP. <i>Tough Love</i> is from <i>Sound Booth Time Machine</i> and is up on Sound Cloud as a free download. <br />
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<i>Tough Love </i>is a funky track with broken vocals. It's groovy, catchy and doesn't try too hard. There's a laid back, retro feel to <i>Tough Love </i>but it still has a modern edge. <br />
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Talal says: "Download this, share the
love, put it everywhere and if you're an artist or a rapper, feel free
to use it on any non profit projects. Just remember to give me credit
hope you enjoy it!"</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-9370367856858110562014-05-14T21:47:00.002+01:002014-05-14T21:47:37.897+01:00Karsh Kale Remixes Aiyo Ji<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Karsh Kale, who was invited to perform at the White House for President Barack Obama, has released a remix of Salim Sulaiman's <i>Aiyo Ji </i>on his Sound Cloud page. The original is from the film <i>Satyagraha</i> and features the vocals of Shradha Pandit. <br />
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There is something uplifting and old school Asian Underground about the track. The remix doesn't drown out the original track and Karsh knows when to let the vocals shine through. There was another remix on the <i>Satyagraha </i>soundtrack, but it was bad house track. I rarely like a remix as as much as the original, but this track is as good as or even better than the original version. <br />
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Salim Sulaiman and Karsh Kale are scheduled to perform together at this year's WOMAD festival. This track should go down well with the crowd. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-75812171884307662592014-04-23T18:20:00.002+01:002014-04-23T18:24:19.780+01:00Sakina - Shartaan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I'm always complaining about the number of female artists in the Desi music industry compared to the amount of male ones. So when Tigerstyle announced they were producing Sakina's debut single, I was was eager to hear the result.<br />
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Out tomorrow, <i>Shartaan</i> is big and bold. It's got enough tumbi in there to keep bhangra fans happy and has a summery feel to it. Sakina has some powerful vocals which work well with the signature Tigerstyle bass. It's catchy and perfect for the dancefloor. <br />
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In the press release Pops said "new female artists contributing to the UK bhangra scene is definitely what's needed." Couldn't agree more. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-67294475718647029452014-04-01T17:51:00.001+01:002014-04-01T18:02:09.061+01:00Another Listen of Bikram Singh's Kawan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Bikram Singh and Tigerstyle are getting ready to release <i>Kawan 2</i>. Featuring the vocals of Gunjan, it's a revamp of the song that first appeared on <i>American Jugni </i>in 2005<i>. </i><br />
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It's been nine years since the original <i>Kawan</i>, or "Kaone" as I now think of it, which is almost a lifetime in the bhangra world. This was in the time of myspace, before twitter and youtube had taken off. There is a whole generation of music fans who were probably too young to remember the impact the song had. Bikram wrote the lyrics to <i>Kawan </i>himself and his career took off with it. <br />
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Why was the song such a huge hit? Bikram told me in an email: "It had to do with a lot of factors. The melody, the lyrics and Gunjan's voice all contributed to a great song that people continue to enjoy. The concept of two separated lovers thinking about each other and providing reassurance to each other is really universal. We can all relate to it one way or the other."<br />
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There were many remixes of <i>Kawan. </i>According to Bikram "artists or producers from different genres of music put their spin on it, it's their interpretation of the song. It made us experience the song from different perspectives." For me the best remixes were the Tigerstyle's drum 'n' bass remix and a<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ncav8DMca8"> Jay Dabhi mash up</a><i>. </i>Tigerstyle's version made the <i>Kawan </i>compatible with the dance floor. Jay Dabhi's mashup of <i>Kawan</i> with <i>Back To My Other Life, </i>another big underground hit at the time,<i> </i>was pure genius.</div>
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So why have Tigerstyle and Bikram decided to remake this modern classic almost a decade after its release? According to Pops "collectively we all felt this song never really got the justice it deserved, as budgets were limited at the time we put the album together and Bikram being a new artist, the label didn't have enough confidence in the project to shoot a separate video for the song, so it just appeared as part of a medley video...This time with the revamped song, Bikram has really put his heart and soul into making sure the song is well highlighted with a good music video.”<br />
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<i>Kawan 2</i> releases this Thursday. Check back then for the Sari-Clad Speakers review. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-64821766853880108872014-03-26T23:24:00.000+00:002014-03-27T00:03:55.880+00:00Asifa Lahore Covers Tum Hi Ho<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Asifa Lahore, a DJ and British Asian drag artist, has released her LGBT cover version of <i>Tum Hi Ho. </i>It is her response to those who asked her to do a serious topic, and focuses on the visibility of ethnic minorities in the LGBT community.<br />
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<i>Tum Hi Ho</i> is suited to the subject and is sensitively covered. The video tells the story in a simple way that is easy to follow. The project was crowdfunded and some of the people starring in the video had never acted before. Subtitles translating the song make sure the point really gets across. <br />
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This cover version of <i>Tum Hi Ho </i>is up on Asifa's<a href="https://soundcloud.com/asifa-lahore/tum-hi-ho-lbgt-cover"> SoundCloud page</a> as a free download. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-11909996156021397862014-02-28T12:16:00.000+00:002014-02-28T12:16:22.903+00:00Dipps Bhamrah - Sachi Muchi<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Dipps Bhamrah has released <i>Sachi Muchi.</i> It is the second of 12 songs that the BBC Asian Network presenter is releasing as part of a year long project. </div>
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Featuring the vocals of Surinder Laddi, the track is traditional Bhangra love song. <i>Sachi Muchi </i>is inspired by <i>Punjabi Hai Ni Mera Balam</i> by Shamshad Begam. <i>Sachi Muchi </i>has a different feel to <a href="http://saricladspeakers.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/dipps-bhamrah-twerking-jugni.html"><i>Twerking Jugni</i></a>, which was the last month's release under #EmbraceTheMadness. It is easy on the ear, works well off the dance floor and will appeal to those who like their Bhangra a little more sedate. </div>
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Disappointingly there is no video for the track, but I am impressed that it has been released on time! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-41982114205940298152014-02-14T14:14:00.002+00:002014-02-14T14:14:47.800+00:00Valentine's Day Downloads<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Like many other industries, the Desi music scene has learnt the power of a special <a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/comment/valentines-day-press-releases-have-sent-me-over-the-edge-this-celebration-has-turned-into-a-gutcurdling-greedfest-9128399.html">Valentine's day tie in</a>. Here's a round up of some of the songs released to celebrate the patron saint of bee keepers.<br />
<br /><b></b><b>Parichay - Tu Hi Zindagi </b> <b> </b><br />
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Parichay has been dropping hints about a Valentine's day surprise and this one doesn't disappoint. An acoustic version of <i>Tu Hi Zindagi, </i>which appeared on <i>All New Everything, </i>this song is slushy and romantic<i>. </i>Parichay can produce powerful gorgeous vocals and acoustic tracks like this really show them off. The original version was one of my favourites from <i>All New Everything, </i>but I think I like this one better. Download<a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/parichay/song/20060932-tu-hi-zindagi-acoustic"> here</a>.<br />
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<b>Panjabi Hit Squad feat. Alyssia - Tera Pyaar</b> <b> </b><br />
<b> </b> <iframe frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/134699538&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&visual=true" width="100%"></iframe> <i>Tera Pyaar</i> was one of my favourites from Panjabi Hit Squad's <i><a href="http://saricladspeakers.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/panjabi-hit-squad-world-famous-review.html">World Famous</a>.</i> This live acoustic version<b> </b>is understated and effective. There is a raw quality to the track which puts the spotlight Alyssia's lovely vocals. Download from <a href="https://soundcloud.com/panjabihitsquad/tera-pyar-live-acoustic">PHS's SoundCloud page.</a><br />
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<b>Preet Mani feat. Rihanna - Pyaar (Diamonds) </b> <b> </b><br />
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As every man preparing to get down on one knee knows, diamonds are a girl's best friend. Preet Mani has reworked Rihanna's <i>Diamonds</i> by adding his own Punjabi lyrics. Preet's vocals are brilliant, but they don't mesh together well enough with the original to make this a decent track. It's a shame as the the video is effective but the song lacks originality. More cubic zirconia than real diamond. Download from Preet Mani's <a href="http://preetmani.com/download.php">website. </a><br />
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<b>Swarathma and Wanton Bishops - #LayItOnMe </b><br />
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This
collaboration between an Indian folk rock band and a Lebanese blues
rock band was written and recorded in just two days. Swarathma and the
Wanton Bishops also managed to shoot an impressive music video to go
with the song in that time. The two bands work well together and the
result is tuneful and soulful. Download <a href="http://www.redbull.com/in/en/music/stories/1331633061107/lay-it-on-me">here</a> if you like #LayItOnMe.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-84186546084800804902014-02-11T17:07:00.002+00:002014-02-11T17:07:32.522+00:00Sharaab - Deva Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Sharaab, a recording and mix engineer who has worked with Karsh Kale and the Midival Punditz, has released an EP called <i>Deva. </i><br />
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<i>Deva </i>is five tracks long and is the follow up to <a href="http://saricladspeakers.blogspot.co.uk/2012/02/sharaab-asura.html#more"><i>Asura</i></a>. There are three original tracks and two remixes by Spectik and Jamal Rusk. The EP is typical of Sharaab's unique style. Lush deep chords, sympathetic bass, hints of darkness and beats in all the right places.<br />
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The EP opens with <i>Yantra Force.</i> It's a strong, powerful piece with tribal elements and a slightly sinister edge. <br />
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<i>Fake Love</i> is my favourite track on the EP. Featuring a Lata Mangeshkar vocal sample from <i>Mughal-e-Azam, Fake Love</i> is hauntingly beautiful. Right from the very first note the track draws the listener into its melancholic boudoir. I like the way the vocals have been edited and they mix seamlessly into the modern backing. The production is so clean, it's hard to believe they were sung and recorded over 50 years ago. The Spectik remix of <i>Fake Love </i>is good, but it somehow lacks the raw emotion of the original mix.<br />
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There is a middle-eastern feel to <i>Wasteland.</i> It starts off as a simple groove based track then evolves into something completely different. The contrasts in the track work well and I love the bass that comes in towards the end. The<i> </i>Jamal Rusk remix is an energetic take on the track. <br />
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Verdict: Sharaab is highly talented at what he does. Although <i>Deva</i> is
short it is well produced and engaging. Perfect for the last of the dark winter nights. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-66649294298470797032014-02-07T14:38:00.001+00:002014-02-07T14:45:16.576+00:00One Man and His Dhol: Interview with TDF's Johnny Kalsi<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The Dhol Foundation are a group of drummers known for their very loud music. Their beats have a wide appeal and always get everyone on their feet dancing. I was lucky enough to get the TDF experience when the Asian Arts Agency got them to play in Bristol. An old Greek Revival style church seemed an unusual venue for a TDF gig, but no more unusual than other places they have played at including the Olympic Stadium, WOMAD and the Singapore Grand Prix. <br />
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After the concert, I caught up with the band's main man Johnny Kalsi.<br />
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<b>Why is the dhol so appealing, both as an instrument to play and to watch?</b><br />
I think it's the dominance, the loudness and the sheer power of the instrument that makes it appealing. I think kids love to make noise, like with a wooden spoon on a <i>patila</i> (pan), that's quite appealing to kids. That didn't go away from my head. I wanted to bang things, so I knew I was going to be a percussionist. My parents were Gurdwara goers where the tabla came first. I then went the obvious route of kirtan. I then took it down another path altogether. The dance element was in my blood for some years and I never let that go.<br />
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<b>Out of all the people on stage with you, just one was a woman and she was playing the violin. Why do you think that dhol playing is such a dominant male dominated thing?</b><br />
I did try and change this. I did try and get lots and lots of girls involved in playing dhol. I don't have any issues of girls playing dhol, I don't discriminate in any way shape or form. If any of them wants to pursue it and maintain it, it would be great. But the problem is their parents won't allow them to play on stage unless it's with a big ensemble. Unfortunately that's probably the only reason that there are no lady dhol players in the band. Plus we tour abroad, there are not many girls that would be allowed to come away with us. <br />
<b><br />Surely the issue isn’t about touring abroad, it’s just the men she's hanging out with?! </b><br />
No! It's the parents! They wouldn't allow it. If my daughter was planning on going away for a couple of weeks with a band to play the dhol I would be unsure about it. There would be an element of I'm coming with you!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image courtesy of <a href="http://www.asianartsagency.co.uk/">Asian Arts Agency</a> </td></tr>
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<b>What was it like closing the Olympics? Can anything beat that? </b><br />
That it was a really special moment. Our dressing room was in the stadium and we were sharing a space with Stomp. It was quite an amazing experience to be there and to soak it all in. I don't think there's anything that can top 80,000 eyes on you at the same time plus 4.2 billion people around the world. It's just incredible, a really incredible moment to actually be in the middle of the stadium as well, not just playing around the outside and to be recognised.<br />
<b><br />You were part of the Drumming Ensemble at the<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXZu8fTA1bI"> 2011 Royal Variety Performance.</a> How did you go about putting that together - it was spectacular!</b><br />
I’ve met Luke, who looks after Stomp, before and we got together to do this project. It was really special to be able to do something like that. But we had to demonstrate our what our capabilities were and what we could do. I can only describe it as layers really, just adding layers to the whole thing. The actual physical act of putting it all together and remembering the choreography was just as important as remembering what were going to play.<br />
<b><br />Your shows are visual as well as aural. Who choreographs your dancing?</b><br />
Back in the day, I just used to do these moves to the music because I write all the music and I know all the music. I like moving in a particular way. The band members just started copying me until all the members were doing the same thing. People watching the stage performance said that looks really good, because we were doing it all together. Then it turned into right we're going to choreograph this: we're going to do that in this song, we’re going to do this in that song. They just know it off by heart now, it's amazing.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirt3VCfCJmHdXUDf2aook0-qw7mZI9O1D5jJpoJ8hhs6RM-pkOrtAiWmVPpzRU6KQ_hIV52NheP0w0jBXNMoNLyC22KEXhNpAcm6tHFSLf5ZGuqFLKLZDDilnHb4_KVIMp8kVTpezwQ6Ef/s1600/Johnny+Kalsi+Tom+Jones+Singapore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirt3VCfCJmHdXUDf2aook0-qw7mZI9O1D5jJpoJ8hhs6RM-pkOrtAiWmVPpzRU6KQ_hIV52NheP0w0jBXNMoNLyC22KEXhNpAcm6tHFSLf5ZGuqFLKLZDDilnHb4_KVIMp8kVTpezwQ6Ef/s1600/Johnny+Kalsi+Tom+Jones+Singapore.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During the interview Johnny whipped out his phone and proudly showed me who he had met at the Singapore Grand Prix!</td></tr>
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<b>It seems that you have played with everyone and done everything. Is there anything left to accomplish ?</b><br />
I
would really like to appear in some big pop artist’s video. Apart from
Justin Bieber, not his! Am I allowed to say that?! I really like Ne-Yo. He
is an amazing, incredible artist and I think that he's got a real
passion about his music. When he sings he becomes the music. Whatever he
does it's just amazing, I think it's great.<br />
<b></b><b><br />Another famous Desi drummer Talvin Singh modified his instrument by sticking a microphone in. How did you modify the dhol?</b><br />
Most of our dhols are straight barrel dhols. I invented those dhols back in the early 80s and people looked at me and said what's that? I said it's dhol and they said it hasn't got that dome shape! I did a bit of research and you don't need that dome shape on the dhol. I put mics inside it to make it easier and more audible when you're playing big stadiums. Then the shops caught on and they started doing the same. Kids used to go into shops saying I want a dhol like Johnny Kalsi's. So they started doing straight barrel dhols. <br />
<b><br />The dhol is a bhangra instrument. Why did you feel the need to take it out of the bhangra genre? </b><br />
I jumped out of Alaap and I jumped into world music bands. Asian Dub Foundation was one of my old bands. Fun-Da-Mental, Trans-Global Underground, Natacha Atlas are all my old bands. They were all the stepping stones and finally Afro Celt Sound System. At the time they were the biggest world music band on Peter Gabriel's label and it went from strength to strength. I was on all the albums it was just an amazing experience to be able to do something like that. I’m still in the band, I'm touring again this year and I love whatever we do and I bring those influences with The Dhol Foundation and they love what we do.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-88946614768345517402014-02-06T23:24:00.000+00:002014-02-11T13:52:50.352+00:00Sharaab Releases His Back Catalogue<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Sharaab, a recording and mix engineer who has worked with Karsh Kale and the Midival Punditz, has put some of his back catalogue up on bandcamp as a "name your price" download. It's to celebrate the release of his EP <i>Deva </i>on the 10th February.<br />
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Up for download are Sharaab's first solo albums <i>Infusion </i>and <i>Evolution</i> along with two albums made with The Fabric. It's a great opportunity to get your hands on this talented producer's music. I guarantee it is unlike anything you have ever heard before. <i>Poison, Nosering</i> and <i>Indian Rain </i>are my favourites on <i>Evolution. </i>On <i>Infusion</i>, <i>Bidrohi </i>and <i>Earth and Sky </i>are worth a listen. <br />
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You can download the four albums <a href="http://undorecordings.bandcamp.com/">here.</a> Check back for Sari-Clad Speakers review of the <i>Deva </i>EP soon. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-84459018453131003002014-01-31T23:24:00.000+00:002014-02-01T00:11:28.358+00:00Dipps Bhamrah - Twerking Jugni<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Dipps Bhamrah has released <i>Twerking Jugni.</i> It is the first of 12 songs that the BBC Asian Network presenter is releasing as part of a year long project. </div>
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The track features vocals from Dipps' dad K.S. Bhamrah from Apna Sangeet. It's a reworking of <i>Jugni</i>, which was a huge hit and still gets played at weddings. This modern version is catchy, but because the original track is so well know it sounds like a remix rather than a reworking. The video is simple and I liked the glimpse into Dipps' old school record collection. </div>
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Dipps will release another 11 tracks this year in different styles on the last Thursday of each month as part of a project called #EmbraceTheMadness. Many artists go months or even years without releasing new material, so I'm interested to see how this project goes and if all the singles are released on time! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-50579774986760878732013-12-30T16:47:00.001+00:002013-12-30T16:47:38.765+00:00Take Five: Ideas For The Music Industry in 2014<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The Desi music industry is often accused of being unoriginal and copying other music styles. Here are five things that I would like to see in 2014. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Acoustic Music</span><br />
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There are many good vocalists working in the industry at the moment. But all too often their vocals are drowned out by samples and producers overusing their special effects. I'd like to see more artists singing a Capella or accompanied by just a few instruments. Two artists who could pull this off are <a href="http://youtu.be/hQhEqp6G3mg">Bikram Singh</a> and <a href="http://youtu.be/hADrg1OtY3A">Parichay</a>. Both have gorgeous, powerful voices that suit a lack of accompaniment. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Harmony</span><br />
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Vocal harmony is not part of the Indian musical tradition. It's something that Desi music has yet to borrow and I think it could be done well. I would love singers such as Gunjan, Guru, and Mehi to collaborate and produce complex vocal harmonies, preferably unaccompanied. It is hard to do and requires real musical talent<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Interesting Videos</span><br />
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Bhangra is notorious for the lack of creativity in videos and from 2013 there are only a few that stick in my mind. A lack of budget is often blamed for the lack of quality, but good videos do not have to be expensive. I'd like to see captivating story lines, surprises and dance moves that rival Strictly Come Dancing. No flashy cars, clubs, alcohol and bored models please! <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nursery Rhymes</span><br />
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As well as making music, many artists made babies in 2013. It's time to target the fans of tomorrow and bring out a collection of Indian nursery rhymes! As their nursery has grown this year and they understand how to target different audiences, Tigerstyle are producers who would do this well. There are many songs that would <a href="http://youtu.be/6ip2F8FUwco">work well for children</a> and I'm sure their parents would appreciate them too. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Improved Live Shows</span><br />
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I'm often disappointed when I see artist live at melas or concerts. All too often the artists are miming to a backing tape and fail to give something extra. Seeing <a href="http://youtu.be/l5R6TasOJmw">Delhi 2 Dublin</a> this year made me realise how good live performances could be. It's easy to see artists perform any time you want on youtube, so artists should work hard on making their live shows captivate audiences rather than just showing up. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-85506485912447525512013-11-26T12:44:00.002+00:002013-11-26T12:44:38.762+00:00Rooh Covers Sheila Ki Jawani<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Rooh, a band based in Dubai, have made a cover version of <i>Sheila Ki Jawani. </i>It is a rock version and has a video to go with it.<br />
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The track incorporates original English vocals as well as the original Hindi ones. It starts with a melancholy feel and the way the song is turned around to show the male perspective is clever. The concept works and it one of the best cover tracks I have heard this year. <br />
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Shot in front of a crumbling building with flash backs from the night before, the video is simple but effective. I like this more than Katrina's Kaif's attempt at raunchy dance moves. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4802629645041530384.post-6197938122434278082013-11-05T15:45:00.001+00:002013-11-05T15:45:26.844+00:00Bikram Singh - Billo Rani <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Bikram Singh is getting ready to release his next single. <i>Billo Rani </i>releases this Thursday and is produced by Sunil Sehgal.<br />
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It's instantly recognisable as a Bikram Singh track. <i>Billo Rani </i>is traditional Punjabi song with an electronic edge. The lyrics are catchy with some great vocals from Bikram. <i>Billo Rani </i>should work well on the dancefloor and I can't wait until party season begins to try it out. <br />
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There is a video for <i>Billo Rani</i>. It's produced by Paranormal Media and features model-actress Asal Kara. It is shot in New York City and London, which are two of Bikram's favourite cities. </div>
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