Music that originated decades ago between Great Britain and the South Asian cultural space has been enjoying a pronounced re-release culture. The label Naya Beat, which already released the powerful compilation »Naya Beat Vol.1« last year, is right at the forefront here. Represented by the label: Pinky Ann Rihal with the vocally as well as melodically catchy »The Indian Dance«, second track on »Tere Liye«, the latest Naya Beat catalogue number. This was originally released in 1985 and combines new wave borrowings with traditional South Asian music patterns and singing in Hindi. As is often the case here: Understanding the lyrics is somewhat of a challenge, so the full focus is placed on the sound arrangement. And »Tere Liye« is quite something in this regard. Apart from the aforementioned smash hit, it’s songs, like the carefree »Jabse Dekha Hai«, mix eighties zeitgeist at a brisk pace with an undeniable merriment that comes automatically. This is mainly due to the somewhat boomy, almost swaying beats, which make both the aforementioned piece as well as »Jagee Raat« really interesting. The highlight of the multi-faceted album is clearly »Party Tonight«, which employs a dreamlike call-and-response of synths and vocals in the verses, and in the chorus extends the invitation to the late-night party with the most mystical intonation imaginable. And not surprisingly: Whether in South Asia or England, the Eighties were everywhere.
Various Artists
Awaaz Series 1: Original Soundtracks Recordings From The Archives Of CBS Gramophone Records & Tapes India 1982-1986
Naya Beat