Fariha Pervaiz "Jhumka" by Naureen

Fariha Pervaiz is back with a big bang. Her single Patangbaaz Sajna from her last album "Naughty and Nice" took her to fame. But after all the hulla-gulla, fans came to think of her as a one-hit wonder. Her new album "Jhumka" proves otherwise. It is upbeat, chic, and competes with Hadiqa Kiyani's "Roshni" in quality and maturity. Unfortunately, "Jhumka" has not gotten due publicity and most people, especially Pakistanis abroad, aren't even aware of its existence. "Badnamiyan" begins the album. Its a fun, beaty song that will definitely click with Desi youth. Its different. Fariha's crystal voice playfully dances to the masti ambience of the music. The album takes a dip with "Late Ho Gayee". The song starts off with excellent guitar work and the lyrics that follow do bring a smile to one's face. But its not something one wants to hear over and over. "Jhumka", the title song, is by far the best that Fariha has ever produced. It combines Bhangra and reggae in dance club style music. Definitely something that can boost Fariha's career. Of course, she sings to the evergreen theme of loosing her jhoomka in a crowd. "Chori Chori Dekhe Mujhe" is more light, fun, and kindles up that fuzzy feeling from a first love. For those Falguni Pathak lovers, this song is for you! "Dil Gaya" is where queen Hadiqa may start shaking. Its fun and moving at the same time. "Same Game" has a cool Caribbean ambiance with Fariha singing in a more aggressive and hurt tone, a 180 degree turn from her usual perky tone. Kudos! Flip over the cassette to side B and the music becomes slower, ambiance lighter, and mood romantic. She includes two ghazals "Kab Kaha" and "Tere Pyar Ne". Tabla work is notable in the first. Both are classy. "Mitti Da Bawa" sports a melancholy theme - Punjabi style. Sound is fresh and the voice is soothing. However, it is far from typical in that the rhythm is much more emotion-evoking. In "Sachi Teri Zaat", Fariha praises God. It is soft and is pleasant listening. In the end, Fariha swings back in the fun mode with "Belia" and "Oye Hoye". Both remind me of Shazia Manzoor's remixes. With a dancy beat and cute sound effects, they make you want to stand up and just dance your heart out. "Jhumka" is a must buy. This album has the potential to place Fariha at the top of mainstream music in the Indian Subcontinent if she plays her cards right. With proper publicity and more videos, she'll be in the ranks of female artists such as Hadiqa and Shazia Manzoor.

Reviewed by: Naureen