Sound check: A snap review of new music

Lady Gaga. Pic/AFP

Joining hands with Tony Bennett, 95, yet again after 2014, Lady Gaga delivers a powerful selection of songs in Love For Sale. Her playful voice is aptly complemented with Bennett's restrained vocals in this album that celebrates the works of musician Cole Porter. It is evident that her solo rendition, a rework of Porter's 1939 track, Do I love you? posed a challenge. But Gaga shines by delivering such vocal variations that have been unlike anything we've seen in her previous work.

Today in music

October 4, 1970: American singer-songwriter Janis Joplin was found dead on the floor of her hotel room at the age of 27. She reportedly died of an accidental heroin overdose

On top of my playlist: Raj Pandit

. Leave the door open (Silk Sonic): It is reminiscent of the classic RnB/soul music [of the 90s].

. Positions (Ariana Grandé): Grandé's vocals shine through the edgy production. I love how groovy it is. It makes me bop my head each time.

. Haq Ali (Salim Sulaiman - Bhoomi): I am part of this song. It has a magical healing quality.

. Jo chahte ho (Mehdi Hasan): This ghazal by Ustad Mehdi Hasan Khan sahab has him emote every word with honesty.

. Levitating (Dua Lipa): It's a mood-booster. It's the kind of music I aspire to make.