ALBUM REVIEW: "Second Banana" – The 142 BPM Jungle Revolution

 The "Second Banana" (सेकंड बनाना) J-Card Cover Art

If you walked past a music stall in Ranchi this week, you probably saw a flash of neon blue and a very familiar-looking gorilla staring back at you. That’s the cover of "Second Banana," the latest "Adhunik Hanpuriyan" project that is currently setting the local scene on fire.

Produced by the elusive Sylaresesino Lopankenzi and released under the Heart Vinyls banner (reportedly out of Kingston, Jamaica!), this album is a fascinating look at what happens when regional Jharkhandi folk meets global dancehall and... Nintendo?

The Sound: 142 BPM of Pure Adrenaline

Recorded and mixed at Beeps Studio by Deepayan "Kampu" Ghosh, the production quality on this cassette is surprisingly crisp ("Digital Stereo"). The music, directed by Bulu Ghosh, stays at a relentless 142 BPM. It’s a style some are calling "Hafuthian"—a blend of high-speed electronic synth-pop and traditional Nagpuri melodies.

Track-by-Track Highlights

The vocal lineup is a "Who's Who" of the current scene:

• "Have We Got a Deal" (Dillu Dilwala & Haiful Malish): A high-energy opener that sets the tone for the "Monkey Business" ahead.

• "Second Banana" (Sean Kingston): Yes, that Sean Kingston. Whether it’s a clever sample or a secret studio session, his vocals over a 140 BPM techno-riddim are something you have to hear to believe.

• "No One's Going to Make a Monkey Out of Me" (Dillu Dilwala): The closer and the standout track. It features King K. Rool and General Klump (at least according to the credits), and it’s a masterclass in "Desi-Electro" defiance.

The Visuals & Concept

The art and concept by Alumn Roy and Kailash Jackson is pure digital surrealism. Seeing Donkey Kong, Diddy, and Cranky sharing space with Mitali Ghosh and Kerosene Banton tells you everything you need to know about this album’s ambition. It’s colorful, it’s chaotic, and it’s unapologetically fun.

The Verdict

At RS 32/-, this cassette is an absolute steal. Whether you're a fan of the regional Adhunik scene or you just want to hear the most unique "World Music" crossover of the year, go find a copy of Second Banana before they’re all gone.

Final Rating: 🍌🍌🍌🍌🍌 (5/5 Bananas)