Coke Studio 15: ‘Maghron La’ review

Maghron La, the latest offering from Coke Studio's Season 15, marries classic Pakistani musical elements with a contemporary twist, resulting in a vibrant and energetic composition. Featuring Sabri Sisters and Rozeo as lead performers, the song captivates with its blend of nostalgic cinematic vibes reminiscent of the 70s and a modern surf and summer feel, all infused with the unmistakable essence of Pakistani musical traditions.

The verse hooks listeners with its buoyant rhythm, exuding a carefree and sunny ambiance while subtly incorporating classical Pakistani instrumentation. However, it's the infectious hook that truly steals the spotlight, evoking the spirit of old wedding songs with its harmonium melodies, instantly imprinting itself as a potential classic.

Despite adhering somewhat to the tried-and-tested formula of Coke Studio, with its alternating classical vocals and rap verses, Maghron La manages to inject freshness and dynamism, largely thanks to Rozeo's spirited lyrics and delivery. While the Sabri sisters contribute significantly to the track, it is Rozeo who elevates it to new heights with his vibrant performance.

The instrumental breaks, notably the bansuri solo, serve as poignant interludes, weaving in the classical motifs introduced in the song's introduction. This interplay between traditional and contemporary elements is further accentuated by the inclusion of a mesmerising rubab, adding depth and richness to the composition.

However, amidst the brilliance of Maghron La, one can't help but notice the recurring use of reversed sounds, a stylistic choice that, while distinctive, may border on overused. For fans vibing with this season’s proclivity for culturally grounded melodies, this minor critique does little to detract from the overall allure and infectious energy of the song.

The music video’s art direction continues the trend set by season 14, relaying a serious dedication to visual aesthetics. Set as a wedding celebration at a house, marigolds reappear across the 4-minute-21-second runtime to wash the scene with the familiar festivity. Women of various ages can be seen engaged in making gajray and going about the affairs of a shadi wala ghar, captured gracefully by director Murtaza Niaz and Aamir Mughal as the cinematographer.

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.