Generations

Label - Big Music

Artistes - Ghulam Ali, Asha Bhosle, Aamir Ghulam Ali

Not all non-film music albums have a shelf life of more than six months, but 'Generations' - the work of Aamir Ghulam Ali (composer), Ghulam Ali and Asha Bhosle is mix of light classical music and ghazals. The 12-track album has three remixes, despite having classical purists like Ghulam Ali and Asha Bhosle at the album's helm. However, the album can do equally well even without the remixes.

After giving this a ear, it's certain that Aamir Ali has picked up the 'composing' nuances from his legendary father. But, unlike his father, his young son has pepped up the ghazals, or say, given it a younger feel to make it appealing to the masses. Anyway, one wonders if the album offers any meat at all!

In one word 'Yes'. Considering that Ghulam Ali and Asha Bhosle would never let anything substandard come out under their name, this album makes a good treat for those who are fond of both ghazals and light music. And, if there's someone who is altogether new to this genre they can hear 'Generations' to get a hang of this well preserved genre.

Asha Bhosle has sung two duets with Ghulam Ali and two with son Aamir Ali. Naina re Naina, Socho Mein Gum Kyoon Ho are some of the well arranged melodies from the album – the words by Ahmad Anees are relieving. Needless to say, Ghulam Ali's soulful voice resonates in his solo songs Dil Se and Ek Lamhe.

On an ending note, Ghulam Ali and Asha Bhosle fans will not be disappointed. However, the hardcore fans will have to take in consideration the – 'winds of change'

Traveler '08

Label - Saregama

Artistes - Bebel Gi lberto, Karsh Kale, C?©U, the MIDIval PunditZ, Bombay Dub Orchestra

Part of the Six degrees' collection, Traveler 08 is one of the best compilation albums available. This year's Traveler '08 installment is filled with exclusive tracks and remixes from label favorites as well as new artists – summing a total of 11 tracks.

Six Degrees staples like Bebel Gi lberto, Karsh Kale, C?©U, the MIDIval PunditZ, Bombay Dub Orchestra and Ojos de Brujo have come up with some unique, promising, and unconventional music.

No matter what genre you prefer, but if you are someone who likes to explore fresh musical ideas Traveler '08 should not be missed.

Our 'Favorite Five' pick from the album to complement your long relaxing drive:

C?©U- Rainha (Mark de Clive Lowe Remix) a mix of jazzy, funky, soulful Brazilian grooves.

Ojos de Brujo- Feedback (Nitin Sawhney Remix) fuses flamenco, rumba and hip-hop. The artiste has received an Latin Grammy Award for "Best Flamenco Album"

The Real Tuesday Weld- Bringing The Body Back Home (Alternate Version featuring Cibelle) is a mellow soft track; this has an element which reminds one of the good-old-days!

Gaudi + Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan- Dil Da Rog Muka Jah Mahi (Cheb i Sabbah Mix) Gaudi creates this track after unearthing some of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan's old session tracks he recorded in late 60's and 70's. The incomparable voice of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan has been given a respectful makeover.

Jef Stott- Sono (Traveler Remix) gives a unique take on Middle Eastern music where Jef Stott fuses the traditional sounds of the region with electronica. Jeff has learnt music from master musicians of Morroco, Egypt, Algeria, Iran and Turkey.