‘Lost’ Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Album Set for September Release

Karachi, Pakistan – After more than 27 years since his passing, fans of the legendary qawwal Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan will soon have a new reason to rejoice. On September 20, a long-awaited album titled ‍Chain of the night will be unveiled, featuring previously unheard recordings discovered in the archives of Peter Gabriel’s Real World Records.

This ‘lost’ album, unearthed during the label’s archive relocation in 2021, captures Nusrat at a pivotal moment in 1990. Recorded at Real World Studios, the album showcases the maestro alongside his ensemble of singers and musicians, delivering four traditional qawwali tracks. Among these treasures is a track never before heard, showcasing Nusrat’s exceptional vocal abilities in pristine sonic quality.

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s influence extended far beyond traditional qawwali music, earning him admiration across the global music landscape. Icons like Jeff Buckley famously revered him as “my Elvis,” while his fanbase included The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam. With a vocal range spanning six octaves, Nusrat’s voice resonated in Hollywood, appearing in films by renowned directors such as Martin Scorsese and Oliver Stone.

Peter Gabriel, reflecting on their collaboration that began after Nusrat’s breakthrough performance at the 1985 WOMAD festival, expressed profound admiration for the qawwali maestro. Their partnership led to Nusrat’s feature on Gabriel’s album Passion in 1989, enriching the soundtrack of The Last Temptation of Christ and expanding Nusrat’s global reach.

The restoration of Chain of Light from its original analogue tapes ensures an unparalleled listening experience, highlighting Nusrat’s pioneering spirit and his exploration beyond musical boundaries. Producer Michael Brook noted the album’s clarity and harmonic richness, portraying Nusrat and his ensemble at their creative zenith.

In tandem with the album’s release, fans can anticipate a definitive documentary film titled Ustad, chronicling Nusrat’s extraordinary life and legacy. Produced by Islamabad-based Saiyna Bashir Studios and supported by the British Council, the film is slated for release in late 2025.

Chain of Light will be available for pre-order in various formats, with its official launch on September 20 supported by the British Council. This release promises to reignite appreciation for Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s timeless contributions to music, reaffirming his status as a global icon.

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