It's a wrap: ‘Coke Studio’ season 11 comes to a close

While ‘Wah Jo Kalaam’ is a treat for the ears, ending the show with ‘Apna Gham’ wasn’t a smart choice

KARACHI: After 10 weeks and eight episodes, Coke Studio season 11 has finally come to an end. The grand finale featured three songs and the choice of artists to close the show was interesting to say the least.

Asrar Shah delivered his second outing of the season, while Ali Sethi, Humaira Arshad and Bilal Khan returned to the platform with great force.

 1. ‘Wah Jo Kalaam’ by Asrar Shah, Shamu Bai and Vishnu

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The episode begins with the Sindhi track crooned by Shah and the young brother-sister pair of Shamu and Vishnu. The contrast between Shah’s powerful vocals and the duo’s not-so-mature (but very much in tune) voices makes this song a treat for the ears.

With Shamu on harmonium and Vishnu on tabla, Shah strums on the guitar strings. The three are seated closer to each other than the usual Coke Studio arrangement and they sing verses on rotation, as if passing a hookah under the sky on a winter night.


Even with a very basic instrumentation, Wah Jo Kalaam doesn’t rely on any gimmick and puts emphasis on the strong vocals and the simple poetry. The track definitely turns out as one of the better offerings of this season.

 2. ‘Luddi Hai Jamalo’ by Ali Sethi and Humaira Arshad

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The 2018 rendition of Noor Jehan’s classic should not be compared to the original. Only then can one enjoy this modern, disco remix of Luddi Hai Jamalo. Sethi and Arshad inject as much energy as then can in the track. The funky drum beats add a contemporary foot-tapping element, while the vintage violin strokes give the song a vintage touch.


All in all, it turns out to be a decent attempt to revive the old classic.

3. ‘Apna Gham’ by Bilal Khan and Mishal Khawaja

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Of course, Khan is involved and one knows what to expect. Khawaja, who was initially discovered through her Instagram videos and introduced via Coke Studio Explorer, ends the season alongside Khan.

The Bachana artist’s latest composition involves a minimalistic instrumentation in the first half, which suits his breathy vocals. In the second half, Apna Gham picks up with some funky ambience.


Khawaja, being a new addition to Coke Studio platform, disappointed in her Explorer song but she gets an opportunity to show some personality in the latest outing. Although she sings her part well, there is very little to remember her for.

Apna Gham is an average offering which might be helpful as a light-hearted experience on your drive to work. But it’s nothing to write home about. And, it’s definitely not the right choice to end the show with.

Looking back at all the performances as the season comes to a close, Ali Hamza and Zohaib Kazi haven’t exactly hit the mark yet. Their experimentation would have been appreciated if it was at least halfway enjoyable.

However, most of the songs this season have been forgettable at best. Sure, they have shown signs of musical brilliance, but they are so few, far and between.

Overall, the season has been a massive letdown, and that comes as a surprise because of the absolutely amazing musicians involved this year. While Strings may have spoiled the fun of the magic trick, Hamza and Kazi barely pulled a rabbit out of the hat.

We wonder whether the duo will be back next year or the show will change hands again. Meanwhile, perhaps, some off time and deep reflection on the season’s flaws may help put things into perspective.

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