The boom in the Pakistani rock scene continues with the induction of another pop-rock band, Gurus Trilogy. The band consists of three talented musicians: lead singer and rhythm guitarist Glenn John, keyboard player, and producer Mohsin Allahditta and Sayyam Rana on lead guitars.
The band released its first album Aghaaz in January 2006 which was very well received but became a victim of poor marketing. After releasing the same album across the border, the threesome now targets the Pakistani market yet again, with their brand new album Intezar, which borrows a few tracks from the previous albums along with some new numbers.
Major keyboard notes, flute sounds, and gentle guitar chords provide the intro for the single Dastaan, a soulful fusion of Glenn’s charming vocals and heart-rendering lyrics.
This track has all the instruments played to perfection: be it Mohsin’s fantastic keyboard notes or Sayyam’s awe-inspiring guitar waves.
With a sure winner kicking off the disc, the mood switches to some real electrifying thrill with Jagi Hue Aankhon Mein. Hardcore stick work and distorted vocals ignite this high-voltage track, full of energy. Glenn’s classy vocal delivery, a rousing chorus, and Sayyam’s scorching guitar riffs dominate the track throughout.
The title track is a heart-catching ballad where Glenn flatters hearts with his alluring voice. A well-produced number for which Mohsin deserves all the applause and catchy verses courtesy of Ovais Sohail, the track is a tale of a person awaiting his beloved.
For Bhangraholics, there is a treasure in Ishq, a rock, upbeat Punjabi tune tinted with sky-scraping guitar waves. Pyar Mera is an average number that can be skipped without an apology while Shaam is a soulful ballad with wonderful arrangements and marvelous piano play. In Saqalbun, which revolves around the title line throughout, Glenn, portrays his talents as a polished rapper oddly reminiscent of Usher. Deewaron Ko is another strong ballad on the album.
There is even room for some groovy covers. First on the list is the cover of the legendary Nisar Bazmi’s evergreen number Katay Na Katay which has been rearranged in a signature Gurus’ style.
This rock tune decorated with blistering guitar riffs is a hit in every aspect where Glenn so commandingly delivers the Raag and Alaaps. A tribute is paid to Talat Mehmood on his all-time hit track Tasweer Teri, a calm and smooth number. And one of the highlights of the album is the remixed version of a Vital Signs track Nazar, a rhythmic and heart-rending ballad that surely overpowers the original beat and receives a big thumbs up.
— by Shahzeb Shaikh