Music Review (Hindi): Dil Bechara

Music Review (Hindi): Dil Bechara

Music Composer: Rahman

In the title track, Rahman packs a wonderful carefree relaxed title song under three minutes backed by more informal guitar strums by Keba Jeremiah and Rahman infuses more liveliness to Amitabh Bhattacharya's colloquial lines while slight techno detour in the interlude sounds out of place. However, the tone of the track makes it for a lovely listen. Composer churns out more punchy Friendzone track out of Dil Bechara and it fails to impress except for the listenable variations in the interludes. The more awesomeness follows in Taare Gin starts with the whispery vocals of Shreya Goshal and along with Mohit Chauhan, Rahman takes the listeners to the musical high. The lush strings followed by the violin solos in the interlude give the song dreamy tone. Rahman throws in lovely piano cues in the Antara and the thoroughly endearing second half where Shreya Goshal follows the string sections while Mohit Chauhan effortlessly reaches the pitch.

Rahman once again flourishes with the assortment of sounds for Khulke Jeene Ka and the glossy tune comes as a lovely listen. Composer wonderfully overlayed Shashaa Tripati and Arijit Singh vocals almost throughout the track and it gets better especially with the title hook. The sweeping lush arrangements with the steady conga rhythm and the occasional peekaboo by flutes make it another winning track in the album. In Main Tumhara, Rahman builds up the track beautifully with the calm hymnal tone backed by Hriday Gittani who returns to Hindi song in Rahman's album after the stunning debut with the composer in Lekar Hum Deewana Dil. The atmospheric track mainly relies on the lead singer's effectual vocals and Rahman accentuates their voices with the lovely piano keys in the background.

In Maskhari, Hriday Gittani is joined by the stupendous Sunidhi Chauhan after Tu Kuja in Highway. The boisterous song once again features the myriad lovely plucked instruments and composer throws in a surprise with the delightful mix of Kanjira. The folk melody gets a lovely twist, especially when both the lead singers join to sing the title hook. Rahman brings in his exotic world music in Alfreeda where he ropes in Palestinian Singer Sana Moussa who collaborated with the composer for Muhammed Messenger of God. Raja Kumari ably supports Sana with her rap portions while the composer does his magic in the arrangements to conjure the sensational Middle Eastern rhythms.

Rahman turns into retro Jazz mood for Mera Naam Kizie and with the ample oboe cues thrown throughout the track, it will hardly fail. Poorvi Koutish who featured in Rahman's 99 easily scores with her feeble vocals and aces when the verse goes as Kizie. Rahman weaves his magic with the musical nuggets in the interlude and ends the track in a stunning manner with the one-minute long oboe/clarinet solo. Rahman ends the soundtrack fittingly with the instrumental track Horizon of Saudade brimming with melancholy musical cues akin to the title and the magical violin ends the lovely album.

Verdict: After 99, Rahman produces another cracker of an album in Hindi. The diverse soundtrack has joyful easily listenable melodies and the musical surprises peppered throughout the soundtrack. The decisive lightness in the tone of the soundtrack aside, Rahman's brilliance is in full display with respect to the arrangements.

My rating: 9/10

Pick of the Album: Taare Gin, Khulke Jeena Ka, Maskhari, Mera Naam Kizie

Music Review (Hindi): Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota

Music Review (Hindi): Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota
Music Composer: Karan Kulkarni

Rappan Rappi Rap's funky sound and Benny Dayal brilliant singing give a heady start to the trippy album of the year. Benny Dayal's singing takes me back to the singer's last year Tamil funk album Funktuation. Composer's bass section and blackjack Horns's exploding brass sounds is enough to dive deep into the soundscape created by the composer for the whole album. Karan Kulkarni gives an exciting swing to the familiar Punjabi vibe in Kitthon da Tu Superstar while the background is peppered with electronic synth sounds and Rajesh Rajbhatt's Dhol. After a lively start to the album, composer returns with the dreamy Tere Liye where Kamakshi Rai's velvety vocals in the backdrop of keys and Karan's guitar strums makes this one a delightful listen in the album especially the chorus is easily the most hummable part in the song. 

Nakhrewaali is another trippy insane track in the album where the arrangements are phenomenal especially the inclusion of udukkai sounds amidst the hypnotic rhythm structure which is peppered throughout the song. Saba Azad of "Calcutta Kiss" and Nautanki Saala fame enters in the second half for the whispery appealing rendition. Karan Kulkarni delivered another crazy intriguing song Life Mein Fair Chance Kiska with Suresh Triveni, Surya Ragunathan's south Indian accented Hindi which imitates SPB's vocals and Tamil words are thrown throughout the song but the prelude is an absolute kickass bit from the composer and the song gains immensely from Kishore Sodha's trumpet. Dreamtime is true to its title, which starts with the ticking sounds and moves into the waltz tune backed up once again by Kamakshi Rai and the serene tune is sure enough to enthral the listeners. Shaolin Sky is the tweaked version of Rappan Rappi Rap and the Karan Kulkarni's version is also adequately enjoyable and arresting listen. Kitthon da Tu Superstar's shooter version is instrumental one for the most parts with Sanj V joining towards the end.

Verdict: Karan Kulkarni arrives in style with the full fledged soundtrack and this album is the most eclectic and wacky one in recent times.

My Rating: 8.5/10

Pick of the Album: All of them.

P.S You can listen to the songs in JioSaavn.

Music Review (Hindi): Kedarnath

Music Review (Hindi): Kedarnath 
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

Namo Namo is smartly done remastered version of Amit Trivedi's Acheche Din from Fanney Khan where composer wonderfully insinuated the title hook and Kishore's Sitar does all magic to make the listeners hook till the end. Amit Trivedi delivers the tune effortlessly and brings the mood effectively with the chorus. Amit Trivedi churns out the delightful melody in Qaafirana where Arijit Singh and Nikhita Gandhi strike it big with the vocals especially husky Nikhita's vocals. Paras Nath's flute compliments the composer's sweet melody brilliantly. Though Sweet Heart is undeniably generic one from the tune to the arrangements, the track is sure enough to stay in the charts. The only solace being the Tapas Roy's Strokes in the arrangements. Jaan Nisaar comes in two versions with Arijit and Asees crooning the beautiful acoustic track and the soft rock arrangements gently embrace the listener's mood and complements the relaxing tune.

Verdict: Kedarnath definitely fails up to the benchmark set by the composer's previous collaboration with the director (Fitoor and Kai Po Che), however Amit Trivedi wins big in Qaafirana and Jaan Nisaar.

My Rating: 7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Qaafiraana, Jaan Nisaar(Asees Version)

Music Review (Hindi): Manmarziyaan

Music Review (Hindi): Manmarziyaan
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi 

Amit Trivedi brings back his Udta Punjab vibes in Manmarziyaan where traditional Punjabi sounds mixed modern techno sounds which are sprinkled all throughout this 1 hour long soundtrack. F for Fyaar sung by one of the movie's lead Vicky Kaushal and the modern Punjabi track is incomplete without the rap and it's fulfilled by Sikander Kahlon. Though the rap portions are the pedestrian affair, Amit Trivedi's synth sounds on the background of groovy tune gives the album a good start. Amit Trivedi brings out his best in Daryaa, which starts with the soothing prelude and the flute portions are heavenly. The tracks turn into an anthemic soft rock with oh-oh chorus reaching crescendo gives way to the splendid first interlude. The brilliant song ends with the 1 minute long flute version of the Pallavi. However the song's unplugged version by Deveshi Sahgal pales in comparison with Shahid Mallya's vocals. Though, Amit did a brilliant work with respect to the guitar-laden arrangements especially the lovely first interlude. 

Composer churned out another winner, this time with the duet melody, Grey Waala Shade crooned by delightful Harshdeep Kaur and Jazim Sharma. The simple melody and the catchy hook by Ishq nazariya and Shelle's lyrics about the new age love makes this one an instant chartbuster in the album. Dhyaan Chaand is another funky Punjabi dance track where the free-flowing lyrics of Shellee along with Amit Trivedi's likable tune makes this one a listenable track till it lasts. Harshdeep Kaur and Jazim Sharma joins hands again for another beautiful folk melody and the Esraj bits are vintage Amit Trivedi which makes me to replay some of the composer's hits from Kai Po Che and Guddu Rangeela. The way Harshdeep sings Naache is lovable and makes me to hit the replay button. Sheele lyrics about the feeling of love where he makes everyone do a dance of love from Alexander to cities of Jalandhar and Amritsar. Amit Trivedi brings in Jyoti Nooran and gives her the dark melancholy Hallaa with the tinge of Sufi touch in the tune while completely the background is revamped with the punchy synth sounds. Jyoti Nooran aces the singing as usual where Shelle brings out the complex emotions of love vividly with the hard-hitting lyrics.  

Sachhi Mohabbat takes me instantly to Composer's Sooiyaan, the tender folksy tune and the esraj combination which Amit aces it like a pro. The Shehnai in the first interlude accompanied by Jonita Gandhi's vocals makes this one another instant chartbuster in the album.  Jaisi Teri Warzi starts off with the heartfelt rendition by Harshdeep Kaur backed by minimal arrangements and turns into the punchy Punjabi background with the entry of Bhanu Pratap Singh. However, the melody along with the singer's rendition makes this one works. Bijlee Giregi is a headbanging trance which brings out the female leads fiery character and I wish that the song could have been crooned by some female singer instead of band of male singers.  

Kundali is much more enthralling despite with the trance background and the amusing factor is mostly due to Shelle's superb lyrics and the tinge of retro sounds sprinkled generously. Jala di is the usual Punjabi track with techno twist but the song hardly works because of the jaded tune and the arrangements. Fyaar Pe Duniya also falls on the same category as Jala di despite Alamgir Khan's superlative singing. Amit Trivedi ends the soundtrack with the short enriching trance track Sherni and the haunting background works like charm.

Verdict: Anurag Kashyap brings out Amit Trivedi from slump and extract the best work from the talented composer and the 14 track album broadly traces out the best of Amit Trivedi from the manic Udta Punjab to soulful Kai Po che.

My Rating: 9/10

Pick of the Album: Grey Waala Shade, Chonch Ladhiyaan, Daryaa, Sachhi Mohabbat, Halla

P.S You can listen to the songs in Youtube.

Music Review (Hindi): Bhavesh Joshi Superhero

Music Review (Hindi): Bhavesh Joshi Superhero
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi
 
Amit Trivedi channels his Udtaa Punjab mode in Hum Hain Insaaf and the songs works despite being the lingering hangover form the soundscape to Babu Haabi and Naezy's vocals. The rap portions work brilliantly and the title hook is adequately catchy stuff from the composer. Chavanprash's soundscape and the average tune is prodded by Divyakumar's splendid vocals. However, the song fizzles out sooner and turns out to be monotonous listen even though few nifty guitar riffs by Sanjoy Das. Amit Trivedi reserved the best song of the soundtrack to himself. Tafreeh works magically with the steady progressing tune and the hypnotic rhythm adds charm to the beautiful tune. Look out for the brilliant mixing in the interludes and Amit Trivedi aces the singing part effectually. The composer ends the track with the punctuating rock sound lead by Rhythm Shaw's fabulous guitar solos. Amit Trivedi delivers another winner with the serene tuned Qasam Kha Ali and once again the enchanting rhythm along with Papon's magical vocals makes this one works. 

Verdict: Though the soundtrack falls few notches below the Vikramaditya Motwane-Amit Trivedi combo, two tracks standout in this Amit Trivedi's latest album.

My Rating: 7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Tafreeh, Qasam Kha Ali, Hum Hain Insaaf

P.S: You can listen to the songs in Youtube.

Music Review (Hindi): Raazi

Music Review (Hindi): Raazi
Music Composer: Shankar Ehsaan Loy
 
Ae Watan has an undeniable Mirzya vibe in the chorus portions and the serene blissful tune sung wonderfully by Arijit Singh. SEL did a commendable job with respect to arrangements  especially the soaring string portions accompanied by punctuating consistent percussions. The highlight of Dilbaro is tapas Roy's Rabab and uncredited Sarangi solos while Harshdeep Kaur delivers the folk tune with her impeccable vocals supported by ever reliable Shankar Mahadevan in the second half. After Binte dil, Arijit get similar vocal range track song in the title track Raazi and the singer aces it while SEL adorns the background with ample support from Tapas Roy and Arshad Khan's Esraj. Composer uses the Agar Dil phrase to create the tripping effect throughout the song and the under played esraj solos towards the end is a nice touch from the composer trio. The serene tone of Ae Watan's male version is replaced by much buoyant Sunidhi Chauhan version with Shankar Mahadevan Academy's chorus portions. Once again composer's extract the best from Tapas Roy in terms of arrangements.

Verdict: After a hiatus in 2017, Shankar Ehsaan Roy delivers their best to Meghna Gulzar's Raazi and the melodies are enchanting and makes me go back to their Mirzya soundtrack.

My Rating: 8.5/10

Pick of the Album: Raazi, Ae watan(both versions)

P.S You can listen to the songs in Saavn.

 

Music Review (Hindi): Padmaavat

Music Review (Hindi): Padmaavat
Music Composer: Sanjay Leela Bhansali 

Ghoomar starts with roaring Swaroop Khan's Rajasthani verses and the composer packed the proceedings with an absolutely groovy folk music. Shreya Goshal aces the rendition as always and the chorus portions blend perfectly well with the tone of the song. The celebratory song culminates with the frolicking chorus. Sanjay Leela Bhansali does better in terms of tune in the next song of the album Ek dil Ek Jaan where the composer creates brilliant serene Quwwali. Shivam Pathak aces the song with his earnest rendition and Sarangi in the backgrounds serves as a perfect companion.  Khalibali starts on an ominous note but turns out to be a perfunctory number except for the sprightly rendition by Shivam Pathak and Shail Hada and some deft use of strings. Nainowale Na is more contemporary sounding track relative to the setting of the film. Neethi Mohan owns this song with her splendid vocals backed by graceful sitar notes. Manganiyar's and Langa's folk song Holi sticks to the serene traditional outlook while Richa Sharma easily outsmarts Shail Hada with her earnest rendition. Binte dil's middle eastern arrangements work like charm but the same cannot be said about Arijit's Singh's singing. The singer tries hard to blend with the tone but it kinda misfired.  

Verdict: Padmaavat falls far behind the composer's splendid Bajirao Mastani

My Rating: 7/10

Pick of the Album: Ghoomar, Nainowale Na, Ek Dil Ek Jaan

P.S You can listen to the songs in Youtube.

Music Review (Hindi): Qaidi Band

Music Review (Hindi): Qaidi Band
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

Qaidi band soundtrack features two singers, Arijit Singh and Yashita Sharma as the film is about the band in the prison where the protagonists are leading vocals for the band. Arijit sounds quite different from his usual tone in most of the songs. 

       For the track titled I am India, the song sounds least patriotic and more of the celebratory festival music with the thumping percussions. However, the track is barely interesting one and even the title hook is also not a catchy stuff from the composer. The escape version sounds much better comparatively, mainly because of the harmonium and the consistent engaging background. Hulchul is the typical rock stuff from the composer with snazzy guitar strums in the interludes makes it an interesting listen despite treading on the familiar path of the composer. 

       Phir Nayi has an endearing melody sung by Yashita Sharma effectually while Amit layers the soft rock sound with a mesmerising flute solo and other sounds. Junooni lacks an arresting melody and soundscape becomes weary after initial few minutes. Udanchoo starts off in an interesting manner and the tune's intermittent surprises make this one an engaging listen. The arrangements are dominated by rock drums but with I'm India's flute version employed brilliantly along with the pleasant percussion sounds amidst the live drums. Apart from the deftly done bass line, Jag Mag has little to offer and the rap portions also come off as a pedestrian one. Poshampa is next to I'm India where Arijit's vocal is in another extreme from his usual tone and the track has nifty guitar strums backed by retro bass sounds. The highly energetic soundscape makes this one an enjoyable song in the soundtrack. The reprise version of Phir Nayi is also adequately engaging one, Thanks to Yashita's vocals and thumping march past rhythm in the background.

Verdict: Definitely not the composer's best despite the movie has the core theme as music and also not the bad one though. The album suffers mainly from the familiar Amit Trivedi's signature sounds in some of the songs.

My Rating: 8/10

Pick of the album: Phir Nayi/Phir wahi, Udanchoo, Poshampa

You can listen to the songs in Saavn.

Music Review (Hindi): Jagga Jasoos

Music Review (Hindi): Jagga Jasoos
Music Composer: Pritam Chakraborty

Ullu Ka Patha's buoyant vibe mainly because of Daniel Garcia Diego's flamenco guitars which easily transcends the listeners to the country side and Vivienne's ululle vocal is a catchy hook which Pritam brilliantly employed in the track. Arijit Singh and Nikitha Gandhi has such a fun in crooning this track which adds up to the charm along with the arrangements. Galti Se Mistake is where techno sounds meet Assamese tribal sounds and the fun track is adequately enjoyable Thanks to the energetic vocals of Arijit Singh and Amit Mishra and the tune is tailor made for Nakash Aziz's voice. Jhumritalaiyya's soft rock and thodi thodi hook is absolutely enjoyable one and Pritam used the chorus portions exceptionally well. The arrangements are done in a neat manner starting from the simple guitar laden prelude and eventually moving towards the soft rock one while Arijit Singh and Mohan Kannan sails through this breezy lovely song. Arijit Singh totally aces Phir wahi with his earnest rendition and Pritam kept the arrangements minimal with the enjoyable guitar laden portions and ends the song showcasing Arijit Singh's singing prowess. The addition of lovely saxophone and Arijit's usual ooh ooh sound is icing on the cake. Musafir is another soft rock genre song sung eventually by Tushar Joshi, the only song where Arijit's vocal is not in the soundtrack and the track is absolutely enjoyable thanks to the hummable tune and the track reaches crescendo towards the end with the thumping chorus portions.

Verdict: Pritam continues to deliver his best for Anurag Basu and the soundtrack is the best from the composer in recent times since Barfi. Hopefully, the remaining musical tracks which are due to release next week is equally enjoyable.

My Rating: 8.5/10

Pick of the Album: Ullu Ka Patha, Jhumritalaiyya, Musafir 

Music Review(Hindi): Meri Pyaari Bindu

Music Review(Hindi):  Meri Pyaari Bindu
Music Composer: Sachin- Jigar

Parineeti Chopra forayed into the singing and actress's sincere rendition of Maane Ke Hum Nahin makes this one enjoyable, backed by the pleasant melody. The lovely highlight being the sarangi in the second interlude in an otherwise passable harmless listen. The soft rock in Haareya is carried effortlessly by Arijit and occasionally bordering on the title song of Ae dil Hai Mushkil.  Yeh Jawaani Teri is an absolutely boisterous rock and roll number adorned by the lively vocals of Nakash Aziz and Jonita Gandhi.Sachin Jigar comes up with another enticing composition in Iss Tarah with ample support from the brass sounds while Clinton Cerejo and Dominique Cerejo steals the show with their splendid vocals. Monali Thakur ends the soundtrack with her whispery vocals in Khol De Baahein reciting the Bengali and Hindi lyrics effectually.

Verdict: Sachin Jigar delivers an enjoyable soundtrack which is devoid of any musical highs but thoroughly engaging soundtrack and Ayushman Khuranna's movies has consistently good music.

My Rating:7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Iss Tarah, Yeh Jawaani Teri, Khol De Baahein

Music Review (Hindi): Begum Jaan

Music Review (Hindi): Begum Jaan
Music Composer: Anu Malik

Prem Mein Tohre starts with serene sound and Asha Bhosle's vocals transcend the listener to the tranquil world accompanied by splendid usage of resonating santoor strains which makes the listener yearn for the sounds for some more time. Apart from the splendid usage of Shehnai, Aazaadiyaan comes off as a tedious listen while even veteran Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Sonu Nigam also unable to make this one interesting piece and moreover the song is six and half minutes long. O Re Kahoro's brooding flute piece and Kalpana Patowary's effectual rendition makes this one worthy listen, however as a standalone song, the track has a very passable tune. Anu Malik loosens up the soundscape with the celebratory piece Holi Khelein where Shreya Goshal's superlative vocals being the only element to celebrate. The soundtrack's best Prem Mein Tohre returns with its reprise versions where Kavitha Seth accentuates the divine beauty of the song with her earnest rendition.

Verdict: Average soundtrack from Anu Malik where the lackluster tunes are infused with life by the superlative singers. Really miss the Moh Moh Ke Daage level track from the composer.

My Rating:7/10

Pick of the Album: Prem Mein Tohre, O Re Kahoro

Music Review (Hindi): Phillauri

Music Review (Hindi): Phillauri
Music Composer: Shashwat Sachdev and Jasleen Royal

Ranjana's string- laden orchestration is the highlight whereas the droning tune is lifted by splendid vocals of Diljit Dosanjh and the singer nails the vocal portions when compared to his debut mainstream Hindi track in Udta Punjab. The blissful violin solos in the interludes are an undeniable winner in this track. Dum Dum's folk sound combined with a tune that is enjoyable and engaging in Romy's singing and the composer wields the magic towards the end with the hypnotic recitation of Anvita Dutt's lyrics. The song turns better in the reprise version with much captivating arrangements along with the endearing vocals of Diljit. Once again Shashwat ends the track in a brilliant manner. Dum Dum's Punjabi version sounds pale, strictly in comparison with other two versions, the innate beauty of the tune makes up for the other minor grouses. Sahiba is an another delightful composition from Shashwat and Romy shines throughout the song while composer captivates with the minimal impactful background.After a string of mesmerizing melodies, Shashwat comes up with the foot tapping Naughty billo and the brief intermittent pause throughout the songs works like magic. Jasleen Royal continues to stick to her usual monotonous trademark vocals and the tune in Din Shagna while the interludes are engaging especially sarangi brief towards the end. Her another composition what's up can be skipped from the soundtrack.

Verdict: Shaswat Sachdev owns Phillauri's soundtrack with his exquisite set of compositions especially Dum Dum.

My Rating: 8/10

Pick of the Album: Dum Dum (Original and Reprise version), Sahiba, Naughty billo

Music Review (Hindi): Raees

Music Review (Hindi): Raees
Music Composer: Ram Sampath and Jam8

Laila Main Laila, remix of the Kalyanji Anandji's famous song in Qurbani and the song works mainly for an inherently enjoyable tune layered by wonderful Ed Gibson Trumpets along with  Pawni Pandey's engaging vocals. Jam8's Zaalimaa has the familiar Pritam's vibe attached to it and it's no surprise that Jam 8's Pritam association pays off well at least with respect to this song. The faux qawwali is adequately engaging and the main credit goes to the effectual rendition by Arijit Singh and Harshdeep Kaur. Ram Sampath saves the languishing soundtrack with the splendid fusion Udi Udi  Jaaye and the melange of sounds, especially Tapas Roy's, mandolin are pleasant to hear while superlative vocals by Sukhwinder Singh and Bhoomi Trivedi easily lift the song to the better level. The Gujarati touch in the second interlude is a nice touch from the composer. Dhingana's punch Marathi folk touch is rather run of the mill one and has very less to offer musically while Mika Singh tried hard to make the song interesting but turns out to be a futile attempt. Ram Sampath shines in another enticing fusion attempt of mixing the electronic base sound and exotic tribal sounds. The transition between electronic base and African percussion sounds work seamlessly with ample support from the composer itself behind the mic and chorus by Tarannum Malik. Saanson Ke has also morphed version of Pritam's template by Jam8 and KK's singing lifts the song to a certain extent but the end result is not so positive. Ram Sampath delivered another heady Gujarati folk song Ghammar and the sprightly tune along with the splendid rendition by Roshan Rathod makes it the worthy listen.

Verdict: Ram Sampath shines with the engaging fusion sounds while Jam8's safe Pritam sound didn't help the soundtrack much.

My Rating: 7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Udi Udi Jaaye, Enu Naam Che Raees, Ghammar

Music Review(Hindi): Rangoon

Music Review(Hindi): Rangoon
Music Composer: Vishal Bhardwaj

Bloody hell is a delightful riot from Vishal and Sunidhi Chauhan's swag in vocals gives life to the song while Vishal uses pauses impressively and the vocals fill the void perfectly. The backgrounds arrangements sway in the perfect Jazz world created by Vishal and the sounds from blaring trumpets to rising string section has its charm on its own. Yeh Ishq Hai's tune and arrangements are Vishal Baradwaj's territory and the composer hardly misses the strike and this one is no different. Stupendous composition complimented well by Arijit Singh while interludes are brilliant one from the composer dominated by flute and the lovely santoor strains. Sigh!! Soulful composition from the splendid composer. Rekha Baradwaj upped the beauty of the song in the female version of Yeh Ishq hai with her classical improvisations while composer complimented the style with harmonium and Tabla in the arrangements.

Mere Miya Gaye England is another amusing composition from Vishal and Rekha aces with her idiosyncratic vocals. Vishal Baradwaj's arrangement proficiency is apparent in Tap Tap where the composer brilliantly mixes chugging train and the sweeping violin sections. Sukhwinder Singh, Rekha Baradwaj and Sunidhi produce a crackling song with their alluring vocals. Ek dooni Do's buoyant Salsa beats and the frolic arrangements make an enticing combo while Rekha Baradwaj vocal is a delight to listen as always. Vishal brilliantly utilises European flavoured arrangements dominated by Spanish guitar riffs, accordion and ugh violin solos. Blisss!!  Vishal handover another immersive trademark tune of the composer to Arijit and the man does wonder with the vocal modulations while Vishal impresses in the interludes with the gloomy use of clarinet in the first interlude being the towering highlight. 

Vishal creates the brilliant atmospheric theatre sound for praising the movie's leading female character Julia and quite enthusiastic to see how this song picturised. Sukhwinder Singh brings out diverse emotions with his vocal modulations dominated by high scale sounds. Listening to Rekha Baradwaj's vocals brings an immense pleasure and plucks the musical strings in the listener's heart while Vishal continues to handover frolic song to her and the lady ace the retro tune in Chori Chori. The accordion-laden track loaded with amusing background songs makes this one interesting listen. Be still's jazz backgrounds and Dominique Cerejo's dreamy vocals gels well. Vishal's fancy for Jazz continues in Shimmy Shake with the tinge of Rock and roll touch to the song.and the showstopper is undeniably powerful vocals of Vivenne Pocha. Vishal ends the outstanding soundtrack with the pensive Rangoon Theme and the soundscape easily takes the listener to the Rangoon.

Verdict: Musical Masterpiece by Vishal Baradwaj as expected and the man's musical sounds continues to mesmerize the listeners.

My Rating: 9/10

Pick of the Album: Yeh Ishq Hai (Arijit Version). Ek Dooni Do, Tap Tap, Bloody Hell, Shimmy Shake

Thoughts On Ok Jaanu

Music Review (Hindi): Ok Jaanu
Music Composer: A R Rahman

Oh Kadhal Kanmani is one of the most loved AR Rahman albums in recent times and Maniratnam makes sure that he gets best from Rahman and the album's diverse range from classical Malargal Kettaen, Naane Varugiren to peppy uber cool techno wacky Kaara Aattakara. 

The Hindi version of the album retains almost all the songs except for the brilliant singalong pop sounded Aye Sinamika and it is replaced by droning Enna Sonna which sounds more like music from Bhatt movies than Rahman soundtrack. However, Rahman brilliantly employed Malargal Kettaen's equivalent in Sunn Bhavra where Shashaa Tripathi aces the lovely Hindustani classical like a pro. Jonitha Gandhi's singing prowess is ostensibly apparent in the O Kadhal Kanmani's best Naane Varugiren named as Saajon Aaye Re in Ok Jaanu and the track still sounds brilliant for its engaging tune and the Nakash Aziz brief solo in the middle. The groovy tracks Mental Manadhil and Kaara Aaatakkara sounds adequately peppy in Hindi also as Ok Jaanu and Kaara Fankaara respectively.  Parandhu Sellava's replacement is an utterly pointless Humma recreation and the song sounds bland and random when compared to both the beautiful original tune and likable Parandhu Sellava. Another song along with Saajon Aaye Re where the original beauty of the song retained is Jee Lein. The trippy rhythm sound  and the tune is transitioned to Hindi smoothly along with the lovely digression in the middle.

Verdict: Oh Kadhal Kanmani/Ok Jaanu's soul lies in the beautiful tunes extracted by Maniratnam from Rahman and the classical songs still works big time in Hindi Version also. Ok Jaanu fares tad lower mostly due to the original songs which doesn't match up to the Tamil version.

My Rating: 8/10 

Pick of the Album: Saajon Aaye Re, Sunn Bhavra, Jee Lein

Music Review (Hindi): Dear Zindagi

Music Review (Hindi): Dear Zindagi
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

Love you Zindagi, pleasant typical Amit Trivedi kind of composition with breezy arrangements dominated by affable mandolin strums amidst the playful trumpets. Jasleen Royal of Preet fame does the singing in a pretty engaging manner with her mighty unique vocals. However, the club mix falls flat with Alia Bhatt's processed vocals and Amit kept the arrangements upbeat as the title suggests. Just go to hell also screams that it's Amit Trivedi behind the music, however the violin solos and passionate singing by Sunidhi Chauhan makes this one easily works. The soft rock arrangements work like charm as always in Amit Trivedi composition. The celebration of breakup continues in Dear Zindagi also after Ae Dil Hai Mushkil with Let's breakup and the deja-vu feel in the tune is barely negligible while Vishal Dadlani hooks the listener with his energetic rendition.

The remaining soundtrack belongs to the current favourite singer in Bollywood, Arijit Singh and the singer aces all the songs like a pro. Tu Hi hai's likeable melody is accentuated by the deftly handled arrangements dominated by the pleasant mix of strings and Jazz drums. The jazz flavour is predominant in another engaging track, charming melody Taarefon Se and Amit packaged the tune with quite an enticing arrangements dominated by keys and blissful sax. The best song of the soundtrack is quite a surprising engaging remix of Ilayaraaja's Ae Zindagi Gale laga le and the maestro's tune remains immortal and the charm in the tune is irresistible. Arijit Singh is stupendous with his vocals equally complementing the Amit's wonderful background. The same cannot be claimed by the take 2 of the song by Alia bhatt and the song fails mainly because of lead singer's vocals. Amit kept the arrangements punchy synth dominated one, however Arijit's version scores much better than this version.

Verdict: Amit Trivedi's Dear Zindagi stays in the familiarity zone, however the songs are pleasant to hear and an engaging one.

My Rating: 8/10

Pick of the Album: Ae Zindagi Gale laga le, Taarefon Se, Tu hi hai, Just go to hell

P.S You can listen to the songs in Saavn

Music Review (Hindi): Banjo

Music Review (Hindi): Banjo
Music Composer: Vishal- Shekhar

Bappa rides mainly on the Vishal Dadlani's sprightly rendition and the tune is the regular Ganapathi Bappa song which has nothing special to offer. The undeniable highlight is the foot-tapping usage of bulbultarang (Indian Banjo) in the interludes in an otherwise typical song. Udan Choo starts off with a brilliant waltzy prelude and the tune meanders into an enjoyable territory, however, the heard before feel associated with the percussion usage bogs down the curiosity a bit. Gergana Raykova's solo violin stands out in an enticing arrangements throughout the song. Vishal Dadlani, Nakash Aziz and Shalmali Kholgade aces in the rock tune Rada where the highlight is Rashid Bashir Khan's usage of banjo for the rock flavoured tune and once again tune falter towards the end without making much impact. Vishal Dadlani's warmed up vocals in the album and mediocre tune of Pee Paa Ke fails to evoke any interest in the song. Reham O Kharam is soulful and Ajay Gogavale's effortless rendition accompanied by minimal orchestration dominated by flute and string section make this one listenable till it lasts. The song reaches crescendo towards the end with awesome solo banjo section. Apart from the solo banjo brief in the interludes and Nakash Aziz's vocal, Om Ganapataye Namaha Deva has very minimal to offer for the listeners.

Verdict: Vishal - Shekhar's album fails to utilize the potential of the musical movie to the satisfaction and composer duo sparkles occasionally with the arrangements (Banjo) in an otherwise largely average soundtrack.

My rating: 7.25/10

Pick of the Album: Udan Choo, Reham O Kharam, Bappa

P.S You can listen to the songs in Eros Now.

Music Review (Hindi): Dishoom

Music Review (Hindi): Dishoom
Music Composer: Pritam

Sau Tarah Ke's highlight is the Ashish Pandit's catchy hook line and the techno dance elements are adequately foot tapping while Amit Mishra and Jonita Gandhi fits the bill perfectly. Pritam mixed mild Arabic choir intermittently. Sau Tarah Ke's another version is an unwarranted listen. Toh Dishoom's highlight is easily Pawan Rasaily's guitar and the tune rides on the catchy factor rather than on the novel one while the haunting arrangements in the rhythms and interlude make this enjoyable. Raftar and Shahid Mallya's exuberant vocals and Mayur Puri's lyrics stands out. Jaaneman Aah is an addictive, funny Tamil kuthu meets Afghan Jalebi's arrangements. Nakash Aziz and Aman Trikha handles both versions effectually while Antara Mitra ably supports them in both versions. Ishqa's banal tune is made listenable with the intriguing arrangements with synth track, percussions and lovely strings. Abhijeet Sawant and Antara Mitra sounds apt in this pretty much ordinary track.

Verdict: Pritam opens his 2016 account with the pretty much insipid soundtrack which rides mainly on the catchy factor rather than on the memorable tracks.

My rating:6.5/10

Pick of the Album: Jaaneman Aah, Sau Tarah Ke

P.S: You can listen to the songs in Youtube.

Music Review (Hindi): Rustom

Music Review (Hindi): Rustom
Music Composer: Arko, Ankit Tiwari, Jeet Ganguly, Raghav Sachar

Tere Sang Yaara ticks off every Hindi melody elements with listenable rhythm structure, pleasant arrangements and to the top of it, Atif Aslam's fantastic vocals to swing your mood. The song's reprise version Tere bin Yaara fares tad lower than the original version where Arko's vocals didn't work well when compared with Atif Aslam's and the arrangements dominated by piano is also pleasant as in the original. 

Rustom Vahi composed by Raghav Sachar song is comparatively average one and the irony is the songs comes in 4 versions in the soundtrack. The arrangements are energetic and gives slight nod to the yesteryear composition tandem to the setting of the film. The orchestration is mainly filled with sprightly brass sections and percussions, however, the tune is pretty much familiar one reminiscent of umpteen number of compositions. The male version and Marathi version of the song offer nothing new with same arrangements and Jasraj Joshi handles the vocals. Ankit Tiwari's Tay hai is a typical pensive Ankit Tiwari melody with a lot of deja-vu feel both in tune as well as arrangements which make this one less exciting. Jab Tum Hote Ho too falls around the same category as the previous one, however the song is listenable mainly because of Shreya Goshal's effortless vocals. Jeet Ganguly produces winsome tracks in an otherwise tepid soundtrack. Dekha Hazaro Dafa's waltzy rhythm, sweeping string sections and chorus while Arijit Singh and Palak Muchhal handles the breezy melody with fantastic vocals. Dhal Jaun Mein's arrangements once again herald the heard-before feel, however Jubin Nautiyal makes up for that with his fantastic rendition ably supported by Aakanksha Sharma.

Verdict: Though Rustom album has 10 tracks with 4 composers, Jeet Ganguly's scores easily when compared with the other and the banal soundscape is the great let-down in the album.

My rating: 6.5/10

Pick of the Album: Dekha Hazaro Dafa, Dhal Jaun Mein, Jab Tum Hote Ho 

P.S You can listen to the songs in Saavn. 

Music Review (Hindi): Mohenjo Daro

Music Review (Hindi): Mohenjo Daro
Music Composer: A R Rahman

Mohenjo Mohenjo as expected replete with expansive percussion elements and other exotic sounds, though the tune is not an exciting one, Arijit Singh and especially Bela Shende holds it together till the arousing end of the song. Sindhu Maa is the typical Rahman contemporary melody with few exotic touches in the interlude in terms of chants.Rahman's singing comes off as a Deja-vu one while 24 fame Sanah Moidutty gives the new dimension to the melody with her vocals. Sarsariya reminds Nannare from Guru especially prelude flute and Rahman's imaginative arrangements with percussion and flute in the interludes makes this one immensely enjoyable song. Shashaa Tirupati, Rahman's recent frequent collaborator aces the lovely tune like a pro with her pleasant vocals and Shashwat Singh of Tamashaa fame ably support her. Sindhu Maa's comes off as another version Tu hai and most of the arrangements kept intact without much change. Compared to the lyrical version of Tu hai, it's instrumental version The Shimmer of Sindhu comes off beautifully for its pleasant guitar work by Keba Jeremiah and flautist Kareem Kamalakar. Whispers of the mind and Whispers of the heart both treads on the similar soundscape one can expect from the movie of this period. The former one is more serene while latter one is a punchy one with ample dosage of percussions and chorus. Rahman rounds off the epic soundtrack with absolutely engaging instrumental piece Lakh Lakh Thora with Tapas Roy's mandolin(/oud?) being the highlight.

Verdict: Rahman's association with Ashutosh Gowarikar for the third time is not as exquisite as his other period films with the director. However, couple of songs stay true to the theme and equally enjoyable affair from Rahman.

My Rating: 7.75/10

Pick of the Album: Lakh Lakh Thora, Sarsariya, Tu Hai

P.S You can listen to the songs in Saavn.