"Shola Tha," released on July 21, 2016, under Indus Entertainment Inc., is a captivating album that showcases the timeless artistry of the legendary Mehdi Hassan. This album is a beautiful blend of ghazal, qawwali, and sufi genres, spanning a total duration of 36 minutes. The album features two extended tracks that highlight Hassan's mastery of traditional Pakistani music.
The album opens with the title track, "Shola Tha," a mesmerizing ghazal that runs for over nine minutes, showcasing Hassan's powerful vocals and intricate melodies. The second track, "Kaise Chupaon Raaz e Gham," is an epic performance lasting nearly 27 minutes, demonstrating Hassan's ability to hold and engage an audience with his profound lyrics and emotive delivery. This track is a stunning example of his collaboration with the renowned tabla player Tari Khan, creating a rich and immersive musical experience.
"Shola Tha" is a testament to Mehdi Hassan's enduring legacy as one of the greatest ghazal singers of all time. His unique voice and deep understanding of classical music make this album a treasure for fans of traditional Pakistani music. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Hassan's work or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a profound and enriching listening experience.