SPECIAL REPORT: HARIHARAN SINGS THE MUSIC OF LAHORE!

Radio Sargam Report: This month saw the release of a unique musical collaboration that crosses not only musical borders but also geographical barriers. Leading Indian musician and singer Hariharan, working alongside London and Lahore based producers Izzat Majeed and Mushtaq Soofi have created an album that truly celebrates the rich colour, culture and heritage of Lahore through melodious compositions and stirring lyrics.

The album, Lahore ke Rang, Hari ke Sang is a unique Indo-Pakistani collaboration that captures the spirit of Lahore in 10 beautiful and unique tracks, ranging from Folk songs, verses of the great Sufi poets, Kafi, Ghazals, and Thumri which have been meticulously selected.

The album, released on the Sachal Music label was recorded in Pakistan in the Summer of 2004 and features some of the greatest composers of Lahore, including Wazir Afzal, Nazar Hussain, Qadir Shaggan, and mastered at Abbey Road studios, London, home to the golden hits of the Beatles. The tracks feature the timeless poetry of Amir Khusro and Bulleh Shah and the essential contribution of famous poets like Hasrat Mohani, Majeed Amjad, Nasir Kazmi, Mushtaq Soofi and Tassaduq.

Izzat Majeed says of the collaboration and choice of artist: "Hari's musical experience is so diverse, and he is one of the few classical artists that has managed to cross generations and continents. He seemed the obvious choice to launch this cross-cultural collaboration. Hariharan has sung the musical diversity of Lahore's city beautifully, despite having a totally different cultural and linguistic backdrop."

COMPETITION: Radio Sargam have three copies of Hariharan's album to give away to lucky readers! To enter the competition, simply email radiosargam@hotmail.com the answer to the following question: How many tracks feature in the Lahore Ke Rang, Hari Ke Sang album? Deadline for the competition is 15th April 2005.

REPORT BY ROBEEL HAQ