Overload – “Pichal Pairee” (KM Album Review)
by Hassan Faridi
Anyone heard the likes of the Pakistani band Overload? The famous rock band from Lahore, Pakistan, which formed in 2004, which has gradually gained popularity through its diverse and awe-inspiring music. Founder and drummer Farhad Humayun has directed the band. The jaw-dropping group has released two albums, one self-titled, released in 2006 and on 14 August 2009 they released their second album “Pichal Pairee”. The self-acclaimed “LOUDEST band in Pakistan” has now made history.
The first track on “Pichal Pairee” is the instrumental “Dig”, and it certainly got my attention once I played it. The start makes a mesmerizing entrance, until the classic fast-paced Dhol instrument kicks in. Then the electric and bass both add to the smooth feel of the song. At times, the track is smooth, until it digs itself through your brain with the heavy guitars. This is an awesome track to introduce the album.
The beautiful vocal by Meera (Meesha) Shafi delivers the second track “Dhol Bajay Ga” powerfully with the combinations of talented music, with the Dhol, the drums, and guitars. As the title states… the Dhol will definitely be played.
“Pichal Pairee” is definitely well put-together, with the amazing English vocals and the blends of instruments. The added distorted riffs to the mixed music genres are groovy, powerful and mix together perfectly. The band definitely puts a new meaning to the word “Originality”.
The fourth track “Amjad Khan” would be ideal for you to listen to if you were to chill out and experience the other dimension… Seriously. The bands use of vocals and instruments take music to another level.
The next track “Vichar Gaye” starts with the blending of the Dhol instrument and electro music, a new combination. Meesha’s beautiful vocals certainly elevate the song. Then the distorted rocking guitar kicks in, striking a powerful blow to the listener’s ears. The song mixes melody, sometimes being soft too heavy. For me, this track is the most powerful and it blows me away.
“A Thousand Miracles” is the most mesmerizing track on the album. The beginning is smooth and takes you to another world, just close your eyes and feel the melody. It all changes once the guitar kick in, taking you to a mystical place. The melodic feel is very powerful gradually ending in a bang that keeps you hanging off your seat.
The next track “Mela Kariyay”, is surely a funky addition. It has the Eastern feel to it and shows that everyone can rock out, wherever they are in the world. The vocals are again delivered beautifully and the Dhol is mastered with perfection. The funky groove of the guitar also hits the ears with an utmost force. This track seems like Eastern-influenced perfection.
“Kaykra” starts off with some fast-paced drumming as the funky guitar smashes in to deliver the powerful moods. Added later on in the track, the perfected Asian drumming also fades in to knock you off your seat. The bridge leaves you clinching onto your life, until you’re blown away again by the fast-paced instrumental music.
The last song “Saat Mein” definitely gets my attention as the album sadly closes to an end. The starting piano is mesmerizing, as well as Meesha’s seductive voice. The chunky muted guitar riffs give the music a unique blend. The Dhol and drums are fast-paced and certainly mastered to perfection. This track gives off a very spiritual aroma once you close your eyes. This is definitely a track that takes you somewhere extraterrestrial.
In conclusion, the band of Overload is a very talented band that is definitely revolutionizing the music in Pakistan. They are original and passionate, their music mind-blowing that clings onto your brain forever. The album of “Pichal Pairee” stood out from the crowd, being diverse and perfected contributed by all band members of Overload. This album is definitely out-of-this-world, and certainly is something to treasure all your life.
Download album from Overloadbeats
