NUSRAT FATEH ALI KHAN & PARTY Vinyl & CDs

Review: Chain of Light, a newly uncovered gem from Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, showcases his raw vocal power and mastery of the Sufi qawwali tradition. Recorded in 1990, just before his groundbreaking fusion album Mustt Mustt, this album captures Khan in his prime, performing four traditional qawwalis that had remained hidden for decades. The album opens with 'Ya Allah Ya Rehman', where Khan's vibrato-rich vocals ride a driving tabla and harmonium melody, exuding a deep sense of yearning. His party of singers provides harmonic support, amplifying the piece's emotional intensity. The second track, 'Aaj Sik Mitran Di', moves with more freedom in tempo, highlighting Khan's exceptional ability to weave his voice through slow melodies and then accelerate into breathtaking, rapid-fire sargam passages. 'Ya Gaus Ya Meeran', takes you on a spiritual journey. Unpredictable tempo changes and shifting rhythms leave Khan's voice as the constant force, building to a powerful crescendo. Far from a mere archival release, Chain of Light reinforces Khan's legacy as a qawwali genius at the height of his artistry.