As 2024 comes to a close, The Guardian has unveiled its list of the year’s top albums, featuring an eclectic mix of global sounds. At the forefront of this musical celebration is a significant milestone for Pakistani music: Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s posthumous album Chain of Light has been named the top album of 2024.
The Legacy of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Despite his passing decades ago, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s legacy endures, and Chain of Light proves that his voice remains as powerful as ever. This album, a collection of four unreleased recordings from 1990, captures the essence of a time when Nusrat was on the cusp of international fame. The album features electrifying renditions of qawwali classics like “Ya Allah Ya Rehman” and the previously unheard “Ya Gaus Ya Meeran.” The latter is a nine-minute masterpiece that combines intricate rhythms and soaring improvisations, showcasing Nusrat’s unparalleled ability to blend the spiritual with the musical.
Critical Acclaim for Chain of Light
The Guardian praised Chain of Light as “a remarkable discovery that cements Khan’s status as one of music’s great voices,” cementing his place at the top of 2024’s album list.
Arooj Aftab’s Success with Night Reign
Additionally, Pakistani-American artist Arooj Aftab also made waves, securing the sixth spot on The Guardian’s list with her Grammy-nominated album Night Reign. Known for blending classical South Asian traditions with contemporary minimalism, Aftab’s Night Reign explores themes of love, loss, and the mysteries of the night. The album, described as a pairing of Aftab’s warm, husky vocals with moody soundscapes, continues her meteoric rise following her 2021 release Vulture Prince.
The Rest of The Guardian’s Top 10
The rest of The Guardian’s Top 10 showcases a diverse range of groundbreaking artistry, from Mongolian vocal experiments and lo-fi Filipino dance beats to intergenerational collaborations. Other notable albums on the list include Nant by Poeji, Budots World (Reloaded) by DJ Love, Daughter of a Temple by Indian classical vocalist Ganavya, True Story by Malcolm Jiyane Tree-O, and Milton + Esperanza by Milton Nascimento and Esperanza Spalding.
Conclusion: A Global Celebration of Music
In this eclectic mix, Chain of Light stands out as the top album of 2024, a testament to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s enduring legacy and the continued evolution of global music.
For more updates visit Pakistan Updates.
