Jerusha Rai’s second album, Sunsaan, is as easy on the ears as it is heavy on the mind. A unique blend of electronic music and Nepali folk sounds, tied together by calming vocals, the album creates an ambience that is reminiscent of distant roots and that seeks answers to worldly questions. Indigenous musical instruments and a use of themes largely unexplored in Nepali music give the songs a distinctly organic and genuine voice. From tracks that lament the socio-political history of Nepal, to an outpour of conflicting outlooks towards life derived from personal experiences, the album traverses the many emotions of an individual longing for connection and meaning. The opener and crowd favorite “Barud” has been received with rave reviews and countless covers and it needs to be stated that this was Jerusha’s first attempt at Nepali lyrics writing. Entwined around the Nepalese civil war, a simple Tungana-ish melody and the iconic “Hey Hey Ya”, this had ‘hit’ written all over it from the get go. “Aba” follows suit with lyrics from Mr. Bikkil Sthapit starts off in a bare fashion slowly building up to a Tamang selo-ish finale. “Sunsan I” is an interesting tune with an equally captivating video on her YouTube channel. “Aba ta ma farkinna” is bound to get stuck in your head. “Queen”, what can we say – this is such a sweet sweet tune... with her trademark low voice and the ever so please “pa ra pa ra pa ra ra pa pa” – a different kind of highlight on this record. Next is a Shuvum produced track named “Shakti”, a synth and percussion led track, chill to the bone and once again her voice works so well in this atmosphere. “Island” comes up next and it’s as if the guitar and her voice has amalgamated and the tune that can be heard now is a breezy flow. The next track is a polar opposite of that. “Blest” is almost metal without being metal. Hear it and watch the DIY video. The DIY sense that is prominent in her and her work is the most admirable facet of her. Produced by Pratistha Gurung, “Mary Magdalene” comes in next, a biblical reference perhaps, namewise – the track induces immediate nostalgia from the “Hadouken” and “Shoryuken” samples. The dream pop vibe of the song aids to that and this one is a chill highlight of the album. “Sunsan II” closes the album and is a more immersive and atmospheric take on the first part - and is something to listen to on a rainy afternoon or a silent night - or well anytime you like. The album is definitely recommended to anyone looking for some chill music with intriguing lyrics and a down to earth approach. Kudos!