Abida Parveen seems to have become a mascot for Times Music. This is her fourth album with the company in 11 months. There is definitely something about this Sindhi singer from Larkana that keeps the cash register ringing. Parveen has indeed proved to be a worthy successor to the legacy of Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

In her most recent album, Parveen sings the verses of Shah Hazrat Hussain. The Sufi poet's work though mainly in Punjabi, has traces of Pothari, Hindi, Punjabi and Arabic dialects. Hussain brings in a dimension of freedom in his work-a romantic celebration symbolic of the rich Sufi heritage.

ABIDA (Times Music; Rs 75)

Parveen has sung six compositions, each in her inimitable style. In Raanjhan, she expresses the Sufi mysticism of the soul longing to go back to the creator. Saajan de hath reaffirms one's faith in God in times of tribulation.

Sufiana kalaam is Parveen's forte. She blends in folk music, qawwali and classical ragas. Her spirited rendition creates a mood of wild excitement. She is a huge hit in live concerts because she improvises and connects with the audience seamlessly. But that exuberance is missing in the recorded album. The tabla is too loud, sometimes even drowning out her voice.

The inlay card is elaborate and has a translation of the Punjabi poetry in English. For those who love Parveen's crystal clear voice and style, the album is a must buy.

Q&A: SHARAT CHANDRA SRIVASTAVA
"I'm Rooted in Classical Music"

Violinist, Sharat Chandra Srivastava, 29, is part of a fusion band, Mrigya, which plays a blend of Indian classical, Blues and a unique tapestry of world music. The band will be presenting their compositions at the Edinburgh Festival from August 4-24, 2002.

Q. Are you a classical musician dabbling in fusion?
A. I play a mix of the gayaki ang and gadkari. My alaap is on the lines of dhrupad. My roots are in classical music.

Q. What is your identity?
A. Right now, I don't know. I am young and want to experiment but ultimately will like to be known as a solo classical violinist. I am still learning from my grandfather and guru, Joi Srivastava.

Q. Do you also teach?
A. Yes. I teach at the Gandharva Mahavidyalaya in Delhi. I also compose music for documentaries.

Q. Violin is a western instrument. What has been the response abroad?
A. Good. There is always an element of curiosity when I present concerts.

NEW ARRIVALS
UM1-10
Universal; Rs 55

Film songs not from the original soundtracks. Sung by Shashwati, Sneha Panth and others. Perfect for party music.

A FEATHER DANCES
Virgin; Rs 75

Pravin Godkhindi presents seven "rhythms" or fusion compositions of the flute. Imaginatively arranged and pleasing to the ears.

BARKHA
Ninaad; Rs 75

Ajay Pohankar sings compositions reflecting the varied moods of the monsoon in Miya malhar and Gaud Malhar.