Coke Studio Nu.WAV unveils its latest track ‘Shabnam’

Coke Studio Nu.WAV has released ‘Shabnam’, a new musical collaboration featuring Maanu and Zoha Waseem that explores love, mistrust and the uncertainty surrounding relationships.

Released on October 18, the track is produced by Talal Qureshi and presents two contrasting perspectives on a relationship. While Maanu expresses doubt and suspicion, Zoha offers a different viewpoint, leaving listeners without a clear resolution to the emotional conflict.

The song’s title, which means morning dew, reflects the fragile and temporary nature of relationships. The project initially began as an unfinished collaboration between Qureshi and Maanu before Zoha joined, adding another dimension to the story.

The accompanying music video, directed by Fida Moin, brings the song’s themes to life through an unusual domestic setting. Everyday objects and ordinary interactions appear increasingly unsettling as the story unfolds through Maanu’s perspective. The tension eventually escalates into chaos at a birthday gathering, while Qureshi appears as a DJ who unexpectedly finds himself amid the confusion.

The video draws inspiration from Brutalism and German Expressionism. Its production design and art direction by Tanya Mirza feature concrete structures, muted grey tones and imposing interiors, creating an atmosphere that blends familiarity with discomfort.

Coke Studio Nu.WAV Executive Producer Kamal Khan said the tension between the characters had been part of the project from its early stages. He described the collaboration as two people presenting different versions of the same story, with Moin balancing humour and surreal elements against the underlying paranoia.

The release brings together artists with distinct musical styles. Maanu has gained recognition in Pakistan’s indie, pop and hip-hop scenes through projects such as ‘Melancholic’, ‘Khwaab’ and ‘Thikaana’. His appearance alongside Annural Khalid on Coke Studio Season 15’s ‘Jhol’ further expanded his audience.

Zoha Waseem blends classical and ghazal influences with contemporary pop. She initially attracted attention through performances paying tribute to Madam Noor Jehan at Alhamra in Lahore before reaching wider audiences with songs including ‘Majboor’.

Qureshi, meanwhile, is known for his work in Pakistan’s electronic music scene. His previous projects include Coke Studio Season 14’s ‘Peechay Hutt’, ‘AAG’ and TURBO.

Written by Maanu and Zoha, ‘Shabnam’ is co-produced by Maanu, with both Maanu and Qureshi contributing to the arrangement.

The song is the fourth release in Coke Studio Nu.WAV’s planned six-track series, following ‘Dil’, ‘Rangeen’ and ‘Maheya’. Two more releases are expected in the coming weeks.