I feel equally rooted in bhangra and hyperpop, queer anthems and Sufi poetry': Pakistani star Ali Sethi on his defiant debut album
Briefly

Ali Sethi's childhood experiences of watching Sufi whirling inspired his passion for music, which became an essential outlet for expression, especially as a queer individual in Lahore. He aims to replicate the collective catharsis he observed, where societal hierarchies momentarily dissolve. His music, characterized by a shamanic quality, bridges cultural divides and expresses emotions that words often cannot. Sethi's recent projects include the album Intiha and the massive hit Pasoori, reflecting his innovative fusion of traditional and contemporary styles. His upcoming debut solo album, Love Language, further explores these diverse musical influences.
Ali Sethi's music transcends cultural barriers, capturing a collective catharsis and providing a platform for self-expression in a hierarchical society, particularly for queer individuals.
Sethi describes music as having a shamanic function in South Asian culture, communicating profound truths and emotions that words alone cannot convey.
His experimental album, Intiha, with Nicolas Jaar, and the hit track Pasoori demonstrate Sethi's innovative blending of traditional Sufi poetry with modern musical styles.
Sethi's upcoming solo album, Love Language, amalgamates diverse influences, showcasing exuberance through various genres including R&B, Bollywood, and flamenco, all infused with classical elements.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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