Music Review - Rush, Chakravyuh, English Vinglish, OMG Oh My God!, JHTTD

Rush (2012)
Music: Pritam
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This a quintessential Pritam album for an Emraan Hashmi movie. Not new, in fact it is a typical album from Pritam, but it is still so lovable. Wonder when will these tunes of Pritam will get old. At least not now.

1. O Re Khuda -------------------- 8/10
Along the lines of Tera Mera Rishta from Awarapan, this is another track of a saddened soul. Good tempo and instensity. Adnan Sami's smooth voice still has the same magic.

2. Chup Chup Ke (Film Version) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/10
3. Chup Chup Ke -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/10
Pritam uses two of his past creation in one. A soft romantic track on a strumming guitar spliced with a rousing romantic qawwali. Sound familiar?
The Film Version is sung by Ash King of Delhi 6 fame, while the other version by Shaan. This is one of the best songs of Shaan of late, where he seems to falling out of favor.

4. Mumkin Nahi --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/10
A very Jannat 2-esque track. A soft melody with great vocals which develops great tempo, slowly building up to a great pop rock track.

5. Fukraa ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6/10
An average Punjabi track, but fairly zesty that is enjoyable when not paying close attention. Won't mind it.

6. Rab Ka Junoon ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6/10
This track is certainly not for everyone, but gets a special mention in that this track is probably the first time any Bollywood track has gone metal, not holding anything back. Kudos to Pritam for the daring move. The style of this song is very similar to American rock band System of a Down.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 7/10. A fun album overall, with typical yet enjoyable romantic tracks from Pritam with a couple of average but still enjoyable peppy tracks. Pritam doesn't let go one last time in 2012.

Chakravyuh (2012)
Music: Salim-Sulaiman, Aadesh Shrivastava, Shantanu Moitra, Sandesh Shandilya, Vijay Verma
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Too many cooks have spoiled the broth is how this album could be summarized, with the following exception:

Brownie point:

• Chakravyuh Theme - One of the most intense and true to it's motive theme, a rarity in Bollywood which otherwise dishes out soul-less generic fare as 'themes'. Pretty dark and perfectly portrays an iniquitous mood.

English Vinglish (2012)
Music: Amit Trivedi
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1. Badla Nazara (Female) --- 7/10
2. Badla Nazara (Male) ------ 7/10
A fun track, that is essentially the theme of movie, which sparks a great optimistic mood of a person in a new world. Just fun. Both versions are equally nice.

3. Gustakh Dil ------------------ 7/10
A little too slow. Has a tardy opening, but it blossoms into a great melody, that the initial wait is worth it. Very soothing.

4. Manhattan ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7/10
An odd song, with a dialogue to open the song. The overall song is a little casual and goofy, but does it entertain? Oh yes. Very foot tapping.

5. Navrai Majhi ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/10
Amit Trivedi takes Marathi themed song mainstream. This album which precedes Aiyyaa, seemed like the point where he experimented successfully with this genre of music. Not a chartbuster, plain fun and great for weddings. The American accented Marathi is funny, if anything.

6. Dhak Dhuk ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6/10
A typical Amit Trivedi track, which is really nice sounding, but puts you in a wonder whether you could listen this slow and soft track to the end. Probably supports the scene well, but doesn't stand up on it's own as a track.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 7/10. Entertaining enough, Amit Trivedi was probably is in his stride during the latter part of 2012. Good for him. Good for us.

OMG Oh My God! (2012)
Music: Himesh Reshammiya
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One of another misfires by Himesh Reshammiya. A pretty large album, but nothing to show for.

Jeena Hai Toh Thok Daal (2012)
Music: Shadaab-Abhik, Siddhant Madhav
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An average album for a cop/gangster film. Alas, there are no more cool gangsta songs from such movie albums coming out, but just terrible ripoffs and terrible item number wannabes.

O Re Khuda - Rush Chup Chup Ke (Film Version) - Rush Mumkin Nahi - Rush Fukraa - Rush Rab Ka Junoon - Rush Chup Chup Ke - Rush Chakravyuh Theme - Chakravyuh Badla Nazara (Female) - English Vinglish Gustakh Dil - English Vinglish Manhattan - English Vinglish Navrai Majhi - English Vinglish Dhak Dhuk - English Vinglish Badla Nazara (Male) - English Vinglish

Music Review - Dabangg 2, Kismet Love Paisa Dilli, Ata Pata Laapata, Dhama Chaukdi

Dabangg 2 (2012)
Music: Sajid-Wajid
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1. Dagabaaz Re ---------------------------- 8/10
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan comes back with a gem. It might sound like a typical track of his at first. Give it a few repeat plays and this track transforms into a lovely qawwali track. Tere Mast Mast Do Nain from Dabangg's magic has been successfully recreated here.

2. Fevicol Se --------------------------------- 7/10
3. Fevicol Se (Remix) -------------------- 7/10
A typical Mamta Sharma item number, with predictable beats, tune and instrumentals. The mediocrity of the song ends here and if you can ignore that, this is one goofy track for some rowdy fun. Enjoyable. Trademark Sajid-Wajid.
The Remix has been done well, and sounds like a great song for DJs at discotheques. Not over the top.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 6/10. Such a typical Sajid-Wajid album, replete with goofy songs that are more rowdy than genuinely interesting. It seems at times that Salman Khan is keeping Sajid-Wajid in business. A few interesting tracks, but overall average.

Kismet Love Paisa Dilli (2012)
Music: Amjad Nadeem, Santokh Singh
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The album is average except the one interesting track below.

Brownie point:

• Appy Budday (Videshi), Appy Budday (Desi) - A fun quirky song sung in a boorish Jat inflection. The lyrics are funny and the execution is perfect. The song is very lively overall, except that is loses it's way in the middle. The Videshi version version uses Hollywood actors and American personalities while the Desi version uses Bollywood actors in the lyrics. Both are otherwise the same and equally funny.

Ata Pata Laapata (2012)
Music: Sujeet Choubey, Amod Bhatt, Rajpal Yadav, Sukhwinder Singh
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The album is replete with village like folk music. So unless you are into this genre, not a lot can be liked about this album. On the other hand, if you look at this sarcastically, there are some songs to enjoy like Don't Take Tension and Joban.

Brownie point:

• Joban - It is a fun rural marriage party song. It covers everything from being a corny song to situational dialogues which add to the authentic folk feel of the song. Employing folk singer Malini Awasthi (Dil Mera Muft Ka Remix from Agent Vinod) works wonders for the overall feel of the song, and the chorus has been directed well too.

Dhama Chaukdi (2012)
Music: Sahil Rayyan
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If you were waiting for a train wreck of an album, this is it. Cliched, corny and thankfully at times, laughably bad. Title track Dhama Chaukdi and Ringfisher Hai Yeh Mast Beer are the best in this sense. For those who don't get enough of Mamta Sharma, there is also Yaar Mood Jhand Kar Ke.

Fevicol Se - Dabangg 2 Dagabaaz Re - Dabangg 2 Fevicol Se (Remix) - Dabangg 2 Appy Budday (Videshi) - Kismet Love Paisa Dilli Appy Budday (Desi) - Kismet Love Paisa Dilli Joban - Ata Pata Laapata

Music Review - Khiladi 786, Myoho, Cigarette Ki Tarah, Le Gaya Saddam

Khiladi 786 (2012)
Music: Himesh Reshammiya
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1. Hookah Bar ----------------------------- 9/10
2. Hookah Bar (Remix) ---------------- 9/10
One of the best, one of the most catchy tunes brought to us by HR after a while. And finally, HR decides to pick up the microphone. The beats are very buoyant, lyrics are fun and easy to croon along; just in time for the holiday season parties.
The Remix is equally nice, with all the goodness condensed by a minute when compared to the original track.

3. Lonely (Remix) ------------------------ 8/10
The ultimate HR experience. With some video bias, I can say HR has employed his nasal twang well after a long break. The monologue at the opening and the middle of the song is genuinely boring and sounds as if the rapper is saying it while taking a dump. Using Teri Yaad Saath Hai from Namastey London tune works nicely in the track.
The Remix works a little better, as the beats are better. The rapper is limited compared to the original and blends a little better instead of the juxtaposed feeling in the main version of the song.

4. Long Drive ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/10
5. Long Drive (Bhangra Mix) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7/10
An interesting track which blends the western instrumentals with an essentially Punjabi track. Mika Singh's lazy voice sounds more relaxed than forced energetic, so kudos to HR for his choice of playback singer. The songs swerves between a chic track and outright emotional tunes is pretty unique. The Bhangra Mix is an out-n-out Punjabi folk track which is equally foot tapping. The main track and the remix evoke completely different moods.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 8/10 if you are a Himesh fan. A lot of his albums off late have not featured him behind, which kind of led to a feeling he had lost his mojo. This proves me wrong. The entire album is fairly interesting for his fans, otherwise this could easily have been a mediocre album.

Myoho (2012)
Music: Runa Rizvi

The album has the first big step to climb out of obscurity, and then please the audience enough to take a note. Thankfully enough, the Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na fame Runa Rizvi does a fair job of her music director. The music is folksy and overall pleasant, unlike a lot of painful second tier albums. Good enough to earn some brownie points, and I will respectfully hold back sharp criticisms.
Brownie points:

• Saathiya - A pleasant and Indian classical romantic track with a tinge of sadness. The male lead could have been a little better.
• Haq Ali Da -  A typical but still enjoyable track sung by Master Saleem for fans of the sufi genre.
• Vande Mataram - An oddly interesting patriotic song both intense in it's mood and melody. A good listen every 15th August for Indians.

Cigarette Ki Tarah (2012)
Music: Sudeep Banerjee, Kavita Seth, Ankur Mishra, Viraj Sawant
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An average album for a fairly unknown movie. No surprises here. Not too bad, but nothing of much notice either. Nikhil D'Souza tries in vain to imitate the style of Pakistani rock singers. Sounds haphazard and thus flat in Doorian.
Brownie point:

• Hey Bhagwan - An average but still fun track about a life turned upside down. Pretty catchy, short and simple.

Le Gaya Saddam (2012)
Music: Amjad Khan
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Oh boy! If I was waiting for bad music to happen, this is it. No point in the tunes, vocals or genres of the album. An all round failure. For some sarcastic humor, listen to Ye Le Ye Le. A train wreck of a song, but not enough to own it.

Hookah Bar - Khiladi 786 Lonely (Remix) - Khiladi 786 Long Drive - Khiladi 786 Hookah Bar (Remix) - Khiladi 786 Long Drive (Bhangra Mix) - Khiladi 786 Saathiya - Myoho Haq Ali Da - Myoho Vande Mataram - Myoho Hey Bhagwan - Cigarette Ki Tarah

Music Review - Talaash, Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana, It's Rocking - Dard-E-Disco

Talaash (2012)
Music: Ram Sampath

1. Jee Le Zaraa -------------------------- 6/10
A pleasant song of a saddened heart sung well by Vishal Dadlani. He shows his non-rock flair in this song which has a decent tempo. The overall feeling of the song is good, just fails to make enough of an impression.

2. Jiya Lage Na -------------------------- 6/10
A track that blends the Indian classical tune with hip hop beats. Fairly melodic and soothing and Sukhwinder Singh is held on a tight leash of the classical tune, which is welcome change of pitch for him. Overall, the song sounds pleasing, but fails to completely capture our hearts.

3. Hona Hai Kya -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6/10
A pretty decent song of uncertainty and despair which successfully injects a sense of urgency to the mood. The song does a fair amount of justice to it's purpose. Suffers from a being a cliche track.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 5/10. There are some decent tracks, but none of them break through the must-listen barrier and stay just ok. The other songs are fairly boring bringing down the stock of this album.

Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana (2012)
Music: Amit Trivedi

So after his Marathi-themed experiment in Aiyyaa, it is time to go Punjabi for Amit Trivedi. The tunes, theme and lyrics are very offbeat; or daring whichever way one chooses to look at it. Almost all songs fall into this category, although the noteworthy ones include the following.
Brownie points:

• Motorwada - The song impresses purely for the quirky lyrics and the easy paced gangsta tune. The fusion of western gangsta with Rajasthani lyrics is truly unique.
• Makkhan Malai - Amit Trivedi's Marathi experiment continues from Aiyyaa to blend into this Punjabi lyric song. The beats and tune is overly Konkani. The zest and fun of the song is contagious for sure.
• Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana - A lovely song of a squabbling couple. The tune is very traditional, and the instrumentals are almost exclusively Indian giving it a rustic feel. Enjoyable.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 7/10, not for the hit songs, but the fun factor of the album. Amit Trivedi might not be the most successful music composer in Bollywood, but he surely is the most innovative and exciting musician of current times with his skillful adoption of local flavors from disparate Indian cultures. He may not get the recognition he deserves, but from an artistic point of view, he seems to enjoy his craft.

It's Rocking - Dard-E-Disco (2012)
Music: Bappi Lahiri

If you're craving for super cheesy fun, Bappi Lahiri has got some of it in store. It seems, though, he is trapped in some 'Disco' era time warp.
Brownie point:

• Boka Chor - Out of the terrible tracks this album has to offer, this one is a good cheesy one. Right from Asrani's and Bappi Lahiri's dialogues to the catchy rehashing of 80s hit Naino Mein Sapna from Himmatwala tune, it is oddly fun and hip.

Jee Le Zaraa - Talaash Jiya Lage Na - Talaash Hona Kya Hai - Talaash Motorwada - Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana Makkhan Malai - Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana - Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana Boka Chor - It's Rocking - Dard-E-Disco

Jab Tak Hai Jaan, Son Of Sardaar, Riwayat - Music Review

Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012)
Music: A. R. Rahman

1. Jiya Re -------------------------------------- 8/10
The best song of the album. Like other songs from this album, the opening of the song is very exciting and gets right to the point generating enough interest at the outset. A trademark ARR style song reminiscent of his past works. The guitar has been put to good use, and the song seems to never give up it's energy and tune has enough twists and turns to keep us hooked.

2. Challa ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/10
A nice song by Bulla Di Jaana fame Rabbi Shergill. His style of singing is both unmistakable and fresh. If you loved him then, you will love him now. The opening of this song is very upbeat and gets you interested in the song right away. The lyrics are a little bit of a downer, but the strumming and beats keep the song going. Not bad.

3. Jab Tak Hai Jaan (Poem) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/10
For those who appreciate poetry, this one is really good. The supporting instrumentals are well composed in a sense they emphasize the emotions of the poetry pretty well. Well done.

4. Ishq Shava ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6/10
Fun enough of a song with middle-eastern beats. Heavily reminiscent of Chammak Challo's beats from Ra.One at times, which happens to be Vishal-Shekhar's work. The song does maintain a consistent tempo, but the song feels a bit like a drag in the latter half with nothing much new to offer.

5. Saans ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6/10
6. Saans (Reprise) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5/10
ARR probably had decided he was going to have some fast opening instrumentals to all the tracks in this album. The opening for this one is pretty epic, although what ensues is a bit of a letdown. This is a purely romantic track that meanders at a leisurely pace. No wonder Shreya Ghoshal was chosen to sing this one, and Mohit Chauhan also is in his element in this one. Truly for fans, not for others. If Mohit Chauhan is too much of a distraction, the Reprise versions would give you 2 minutes of unadulterated Shreya Ghoshal.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 6/10. The album is not one of the best works by ARR: Rockstar remains his best work of late so far. The tunes follow a predictable path: ARR plays it a little too safe. Being himself, the tunes are not downright terrible, but some are extremely melodramatic, which could be the theme of the movie, but without the background, it becomes a bit too mushy. Decent album, but nothing blowing out of the water.

Son Of Sardaar (2012)
Music: Himesh Reshammiya

1. Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein Ye Sawaal Aata Hai (Funk) --------------------------- 6/10
2. Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein Ye Sawaal (Trance) --------------------------------------- 6/10
Normally, Ajay Devgn (it pains me to spell his name with the missing vowel), falls flat with his punchlines and in-song dialogues, this monologue put to tune is fairly good. The lyrics are funny, but when listening to the first dialogue, it feels, it should have been 'Daughter Of Sardaar' and not the son. Some of the techno elements in the Trance version are pretty slick, but the original remains the better of the two.

3. Bichdann -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6/10
A classic HR  une of a yearning/broken heart. The style is fairly similar to Aap Ka Suroor album. In his heydays, HR would have himself sung it, but Rahat  Fateh Ali Khan fits well too. His fans might like it.

Final verdict: In an album of 11 tracks, only 3 get a mention. That goes to show how Himesh's stock has taken a plunge. Probably, he should playback his own songs again. Probably.

Riwayat (2012)
Music: Sushil Lalji

A pretty average album for a not so mainstream movie which just makes matters worse for the album. Thankfully, the music director has shown enough flair so as to not make it suck altogether. Cliche and thus, boring

Brownie point:

• Aansu Kabhi Chhalke Nahin - Fans of late Jagjit Singh might actally like this one, as he sings to his strength. Others can ignore him as they have always done.

Jiya Re - Jab Tak Hai Jaan Challa - Jab Tak Hai Jaan Saans - Jab Tak Hai Jaan Jab Tak Hai Jaan (Poem) - Jab Tak Hai Jaan Ishq Shava - Jab Tak Hai Jaan Saans (Reprise) - Jab Tak Hai Jaan Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein Ye Sawaal Aata Hai (Funk) - Son Of Sardaar Bichdann - Son Of Sardaar Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein Ye Sawaal (Trance) - Son Of Sardaar Aansu Kabhi Chhalke Nahin - Riwayat

1920 Evil Returns, Aiyyaa, Future To Bright Hai Ji - Music Review

1920 Evil Returns (2012)
Music: Chirantan Bhatt

1. Jaavedaan Hai ------------------------- 9/10
This track feels straight out of a Pritam album; specifically Jannat 2. Chirantan Bhatt uses KK's ability the best possible way, which is another factor why this song has a semblance to prior Emraan Hashmi movie songs. KK's style of starting out the song slow building up to a climactic finish is well composed. Great track, a tad too long.

2. Uska Hi Banana ------------------------ 9/10
Trademark Chirantan Bhatt melancholic song, beseeching the almighty for help. If you are a fan of sad romantic songs, then you will absolutely love this song. Rising playback singer Arijit Singh sings his heart out in the song.

3. Apnaa Mujhe Tu Lagaa ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6/10
Another typical Chirantan Bhatt track: romantic, with a dash of sadness. Sonu Nigam does justice to this melody with his masterful voice without going loud or soft. The track has a nice flow to it, with a soft rock-like guitar and drums instrumentals. The theme tune of the song is catchy. Overall, the song is adequate, but not bad. For Sonu Nigam fans.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 6/10. Chirantan Bhatt has either worked in a niche or has found one. Yet another album composed for a horror/thriller Bollywood movie, with the theme of the songs tending towards melancholic love. Couple of decent songs in the album.

Aiyyaa (2012)
Music: Amit Trivedi

1. Dreamum Wakeupum -------------- 9/10
This song has to be dealt with the right sense of humor, otherwise you will only finding yourself shaking your head in disgusted disbelief. A great satirical song parodying the style of songs produced by Tollywood/Kollywood. It seems to get the beats, instrumentals, tempo and the loudness of lyrics perfectly to evoke hilarity. Let loose your inhibitions, and this track will be an enjoyable ride.

2. Sava Dollar (Lavni) -------------------- 9/10
Never has a lavni sounded so better. This lavni based song is energetic and the lyrics pack a punch. Sunidhi Chauhan brings her energetic voice into the foray making it zesty. Besides, she and the chorus superbly don the Marathi-accented Hindi making this lavni even more believable. Well done.

3. Mahek Bhi ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/10
Lovely melody from the super sweet voiced Shreya Ghoshal. The track takes almost 2 minutes for the song to begin almost making us believe it is an instrumental. A superb song for peaceful romantic moments.

4. What To Do -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/10
The most hilarious song of the album in terms of lyrics, composition and execution. And who better to perform than the queen of hilarity in Bollywood music: Sneha Khanwalkar. The lyrics are totally double-meaning and ridiculous, and thankfully, the playback singers go absolutely berserk with it. Love it, hate it, but don't take it too seriously, because you would miss out on a brilliantly composed funny song from Bollywood. The Lijjat papad jingle tune has been used to a great advantage (hopefully with the proper rights).

5. Aga Bai -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/10
This is an interesting track, which remains relevant throughout it's length while still not fully not capturing our attention. The song has a definite energy to it, the beats are foot tapping and modern techno instrumentals blended with classical Indian musical tunes gives it a slightly surreal feel. Odd song, but enjoyable.

6. Wakda ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6/10
This one is a slightly difficult to describe. The tempo is upbeat and the song constantly meanders between Tamil musical style and Marathi style, with Amit Trivedi's own touch. Fun song, but nothing too striking about it.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 8/10. All the songs keep you engaged in one way or the other. The album is certainly not meant for the entire demographic. Like Gangs Of Wasseypur I & II, this album requires a certain sense of humor from it's audience, without which it is just noise. Amit Trivedi has always been this borderline good musician who normally fails to break the good to great barrier, but I wonder if this is one of his best compositions to date. He has utilized Tamil tunes, Maharashtrian lavni, crazy lyrics, Marathi lyrics and on top of it a believable Marathi-accented Hindi from the playback singers. Wonder if he is highly proud of his own work here.

Future To Bright Hai Ji (2012)
Music: Mohinderjit Singh, Naresh-Paresh, Aamir Ali

There are only 4 original songs in the album, so it looks like each one of the composers had a song to contribute to the album. The album is fairly bland, and there doesn't seem to be any effort to make it any more interesting that what it is. Not an inept piece of work, just lackluster.

Brownie point:

• Ankhiyan Nu Rehn De, Ankhiyan Nu Rehn - A better song of the album for the classical Punjabi music lovers. The song is soft and slow, and a bit introspective. The guitar has been put in good use, and the transition from soft music to a strong performance is well done. The song has two versions, one with Kamaal Khan and the other one with Aamir Ali. Aamir Ali (Ankhiyan Nu Rehn De) sounds better out of the two.

Jaavedaan Hai - 1920 Evil Returns Uska Hi Banana - 1920 Evil Returns Apnaa Tu Mujhe Lagaa - 1920 Evil Returns Dreamum Wakeupum - Aiyyaa Sava Dollar (Lavni) - Aiyyaa Mahek Bhi - Aiyyaa What To Do - Aiyyaa Aga Bai - Aiyyaa Wakda - Aiyyaa Ankhiyan Nu Rehn De - Future To Bright Hai Ji Ankhiyan Nu Rehn - Future To Bright Hai Ji

Student Of The Year, Ajab Gazabb Love, Ishkq In Paris - Music Review

Student Of The Year (2012)
Music: Vishal-Shekhar

1. Vele ------------------------------- 9/10
A Punjabi, hip-hop song. This one has a greater folk appeal compared to Kukkad. But, the lyrics are fun (whatever you can glean out of the Punjabi lyrics). The instrumentals passages are super chic and laudable. Just a lot of fun.

2. Radha ----------------------------- 9/10
The song is reminiscent of Deewangi Deewangi from Om Shanti Om. It uses all the cliche elements of Bollywood hip hop music. with the clinching factor of it's pure energy. This song cannot leave it's audience unmoved. Udit Narayan makes a pleasant comeback in Radha. Starts out nice and slow with Indian classical piece and quickly blooms into a full fledged hip hop song.

3. Ratta Maar --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/10
Great youthful track that any current or past students will relate to. The title conveys the gist of the song well. A simple strumming track. The change in track in the later half of the song kind of makes one feel, this situational song is modeled after High School Musical. Nice one.

4. Ishq Wala Love --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/10
A soft melodic romantic song by Vishal-Shekhar. Starts out real soft and gets in it's groove towards the end. This one is for the hopeless romantics who can forgive somewhat lame lyrics.

5. Kukkad ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/10
A pretty commonplace Punjabi styled party track. The first impression could be a casual shrug, but as you keep listen to, the song keeps getting more foot-tapping. Good one.

6. The Disco Song -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/10
Another fun disco song of the album. Vishal-Shekhar have hopefully, legally and respectfully used late Nazia Hassan superhit song of the 80s Disco Deewane. The effect is great and the song still feels relevant. Otherwise the song mostly survives on mashing up tunes from the aforementioned song and other songs from the album.

7. Mashup Of The Year -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/10
If you enjoyed the album so far, this Mashup will surpisingly continue to impress. A straightforward mix of all the tracks from the album, it has been assembled together really well. Different songs gel so well, it deserves praise.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 10/10. One of the most entertaining albums of 2012, this sure is Album Of The Year for Vishal-Shekhar.

Ajab Gazabb Love (2012)
Music: Sajid-Wajid

1. Sun Soniye ------------------------------------- 9/10
2. Sun Soniye (Remix) ------------------------ 9/10
One of the most melodic romantic song to come from Sajid-Wajid who always seem to be too distracted for this genre. The song has a certain intensity in terms of emotions. The good part of the song is it wastes no time capturing it's audience. The female lead voice falls a little short in comparison with the male lead's command. The Remix is faster version, as one would expect, but the charm of the song stays intact.

3. Boom Boom (Lip Lock) -------------------- 6/10
4. Boom Boom (Remix) ------------------------ 6/10
This is almost a replica of Soni De Nakhre from Partner. If you loved that one, there is no reason to not like this one. Adequately fun song.

5. Nachde Punjabi ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6/10
A hardcore Punjabi hip hop track. If you are a fan of this genre, it could be the song for you. Otherwise, if the neutral audience can stand the Punjabi folk instrument Algoza (the one that makes that annoyish continuous flute sound), it is a decent song.

6. Tu -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6/10
This is a very strange song to come from Sajid-Wajid. It almost feels like a Himesh Reshammiya. However, if you are fan of HR as well as Mohit Chauhan, this slow romantic song with it's folkish appeal will impress you. Otherwise, a passable track.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 7/10. A decently entertaining album. Sajid-Wajid have kept their goofiness at bay and have done a decent job out of this one.

Ishkq In Paris (2012)
Music: Sajid-Wajid

1. Jaane Bhi De (Duet) -------------------- 7/10
2. Jaane Bhi De ------------------------------ 7/10
Sonu Nigam and romantic song lovers should like this one. A plain vanilla soft romantic track. Don't expect too much and it might actually win your heart. Probably Wajid loved this song so much, that he decided to record the same song solo too.

3. Saiyaan -------------------------------------- 7/10
An intense song of a broken heart brought to you back Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. His fans will love it. It is a tad sad though, so be warned. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan is commanding in this genre.The slow start to the song culminates into a qawwali vigor towards the end. One of the best sad songs off late.

4. It's All About Tonight ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6/10
The track is hip and happening, however, it has a certain sense of staleness to it. Feels like it belongs from about 8-10 years ago. Fun and entertaining, but not enough.

Final verdict: Sajid-Wajid yet again have not indulged in goofdom with this album. Overall, the album isn't too impressive as Sajid-Wajid play too safe, and some songs sound too old for 2012.
Vele - Student Of The Year Radha - Student Of The Year Ratta Maar - Student Of The Year Ishq Wala Love - Student Of The Year Kukkad - Student Of The Year The Disco Song - Student Of The Year Mashup Of The Year - Student Of The Year Sun Soniye - Ajab Gazabb Love Boom Boom (Lip Lock) - Ajab Gazabb Love Nachde Punjabi - Ajab Gazabb Love Tu - Ajab Gazabb Love Sun Soniye (Remix) - Ajab Gazabb Love Boom Boom (Remix) - Ajab Gazabb Love Jaane Bhi De (Duet) - Ishkq In Paris Saiyaan - Ishkq In Paris It's All About Tonight - Ishkq In Paris Jaane Bhi De - Ishkq In Paris

Heroine, Barfi!, Qayamat Hi Qayamat - Music Review

Heroine (2012)
Music: Salim-Sulaiman

1. Saaiyaan ---------------------------------- 9/10
The song has a very spiritual feel to it. A very calming tune and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan pours his heart out as usual. His fans will love it, and it is one of his recent best. A tad slow, this song is made for a mood when you need some comfort.

2. Tujhpe Fida ------------------------------- 8/10
A typical party track from Salim-Sulaiman. The beats are catchy and the use of techno instrumentals make it a perfect discotheque song. The song opens with a predictable pace, but gets into it's full flow by the middle. So, just hang on if the first minute does not impress you.

3. Halkat Jawani ---------------------------- 7/10
One of the many rowdy item numbers produced lately, this song offers nothing new in terms of appeal or tune. However, Sunidhi Chauhan's zesty voice and overall upbeat/careless mood of the song makes it a fun song. A perfect fit this Ganpati season.

4. Khwahishein ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/10
Shreya Ghoshal at her best. The song is a nice melodic narration of someone's ambitions. The track meanders through a soft melody and soft rock effortlessly evoking a rousing emotion.

5. Main Heroine Hoon ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/10
The opening of the song is very catchy, very glitzy. Though the song is solely about the theme of the movie, in fact, the title track, the somber mood and the turbulence of emotions is directed with passion. The use of sitar midway is refereshing and it breaks the monotony of the song.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 8/10. Though the songs are not chartbusters by themselves, the overall album is very catchy and will entertain you. There are no remixes to deal with and Salim-Sulaiman have proven their worth again.

Barfi! (2012)
Music: Pritam

DISCLAIMER: I am writing this review after I have watched the movie, which in my opinion significantly affects the perception of the album. Why? Well, the visuals/plot greatly adds to the charm of the song, especially, if the song enhances the storytelling experience; which in this case was the case. I will also add that, I had mixed reviews for the album before watching the movie, but they have gone from mixed to rave after the movie experience. So, treat this review as biased.

1. Kyon ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10/10
A very easy going and adorable song that speaks of the simple joys of life, again. The slow start of the song might put someone off, but touches your heart as it progresses. Has a 70s feel to it. Sunidhi Chauhan sparkles in this idyllic track.

2. Phir Le Aya Dil (Reprise) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10/10
3. Phir Le Aya Dil --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9/10
If the repetitiveness of the simple, 70s styled songs gets to you, this Indian classical piece comes to rescue. Soft, calming and a great representative of how Indian classical can still be relevant and entertaining. There are two versions of the song: male and female. Both are completely identical, however the Reprise version, which is the male version sounds better of the two.
Rekha Bharadwaj at the cost of sounding a little phony in her Indian classical singing, brilliantly sings the main version (kind of a backhanded compliment here, sorry).
The key to enjoy this song is to soak in the tempo and not worry about it's length.

4. Aashiyan ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 8/10
Probably the best situation song of the movie, when two simple and lost souls find a common purpose to their insignificant lives. A great song of simplicity and the simple joys of life.

5. Main Kya Karoon ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/10
A stereotypical Pritam romantic track that uses strumming guitars and soft male lead voice. Easy going and super romantic. This song is representative of the album, in which the instrumentals have been sparingly and distinctly used. The individual instruments don't blend or fade in the background and have a clear purpose in the track. The endearing male lead voice can be a little bit of a turn-off.

6. Barfi! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/10
7. Ala Barfi! (Version 2) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/10
Initially I wished to accuse this song of evoking a forcible 'awww' reaction by adopting a 50s style of playful songs: Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi anyone? Although, the song is based in the 70s in the movie, and the feel of the song is perfect for the script. Mohit Chauhan adds another gem to his collection. The song is a bit lengthy would be it's drawback. The two versions are almost identical

8. Saawali Si Raat --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6/10
The song is beautiful and extremely soft. Not much can be said of this one, except, at one point feels like a lullaby, albeit a very nice one. By the middle of it though, it slightly loses the grip on the narrative.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 9/10. Pritam does it again. He makes me mention every song of the album: that includes the alternate song versions too. He has simply aced his assignment to craft soft music for a movie primarily based in the 70s. Hats off!

Qayamat Hi Qayamat (2012)
Music: Suraj Kanodia, Aanchal Talesra, Manoj Tikaria

This is a blast from the past kind of album. Or may be it is intended for a market that is stuck in that age in terms of Bollywood exposure. All songs sound like they come right from a early 90s movie. Terrible. After listening to Bichchuda, you come to appreciate the singing style of Ila Arun, no matter how much her voice is ridiculed or hated.

Saaiyaan - Heroine Tujhpe Fida - Heroine Halkat Jawani - Heroine Khwahishein - Heroine Main Heroine Hoon - Heroine Kyon - Barfi! Phir Le Aya Dil (Reprise) - Barfi! Aashiyan - Barfi! Main Kya Karoon - Barfi! Barfi! - Barfi! Saawali Si Raat - Barfi! Phir Le Aya Dil - Barfi! Ala Barfi! (Version 2) - Barfi!

Raaz 3, Chal Pichchur Banate Hain, Aalaap - Music Review

Raaz 3
Music: Jeet Ganguly, Rashid Khan

1. Deewana Kar Raha Hai --------------- 6/10
A pretty standard Nadeem-Shravan-esque romantic track. Simple and nothing striking about it, but it is just fairly easy going with a hint of sadness. In case you are a Javed Ali fan, this might be even more in this song for you.

2. Oh My Love ------------------------------ 6/10
You have to be die hard Sonu Nigam fan to like this one. This is him to it's core. Melodious and soft to the core, this song is all that made Sonu Nigam what he is today. On the flip side, it means there is nothing novel about the track for neutral audience.

Final verdict: A safe album. The songs are directed in an extremely predictable manner for a horror Bollywood movie. In fact, Chirantan Bhatt did a much better job at this genre with Haunted - 3D. Decent album, could have tried harder.

Chal Pichchur Banate Hain (2012)
Music: Gaurav Dagaonkar

1. Bas Tu Hi ------------------------------ 8/10
Javed Ali fans have yet another slow paced melodic song to listen. Very easy going song that can be enjoyed in the company of that someone special, or may be alone. Shreya Ghoshal is her super sweet self. Very much like Saude Baji from Aakrosh.

2. Main Gaa Loon Zara -------------- 8/10
A lovely song of enthusiasm and optimism. A free spirit singing his/her heart out. The tempo is good and the song is entertaining. Nothing more is required out of it anyways. Good job Gaurav Dagaonkar.

3. Baanwra Mann ----------------------- 7/10
A very upbeat song and yet another track this week that uses light guitar strumming. Shaan shines after a while, and Sunidhi Chauhan continues to sparkle with melodies. The tune is fairly standard, but the innocence portrayed is a bit contagious, minus the slight repetitiveness of the tune. Short and sweet.

Final verdict: Overall, gets a 7/10. The album is positive and entertaining. It makes for a soothing listening.

Aalaap (2012)
Music: Agnee

1. Shuruwat Pyaar Ki ------------------------------------------------------- 8/10
One of the nicest romantic tracks of recent times. Soft but distinct guitars and offbeat playback singers are it's strengths.

Overall, the album is fairly decent. Agnee does a great job in the sense that the entire album has tracks that are likable to listen to. Just not that great to occupy a few megabytes on the MP3 players.

Song - Movie

Deewana Kar Raha Hai - Raaz 3 Oh My Love - Raaz 3 Bas Tu Hi - Chal Pichchur Banate Hain Main Gaa Loon Zara - Chal Pichchur Banate Hain Baanwra Mann - Chal Pichchur Banate Hain Shuruwat Pyaar Ki - Aalaap

Joker, Challo Driver, Jalpari - Music Review

Joker (2012)
Music: Gaurav Dagaonkar, G. V. Prakash Kumar

1. Kafiraana --------------------------- 8/10
Here comes another song with Marathi flavor, using a Marathi word in a double-meaning way. Truly Dhagala Lagli Kala style. Sunidhi Chauhan brings her zest and commanding voice to this song while Farah Khan brings another fun themed song to life after Sheila Ki Jawani from Tees Maar Khan. Only for those who can digest the lyrics, I Want Fakht You, but still very fun.

2. Sing Raja --------------------------- 6/10
An interesting foot tapping track by Daler Mehndi. It is surprising that his voice fills the air with so much energy, still. Good beats and interesting upbeat lyrics sure to lighten up any mood. Great party/college cultural show track.

Final verdict: Overall, the album is average, except the two tracks above.

Challo Driver (2012)
Music: Gaurav Dayal, Sajjad Ali Chandwani

A pretty standard album. Not utterly terrible, but the music directors stick to the absolutely tried and tested formula; the result being a decent album with nothing to remember. Wakhre Wakhre Kaam is probably the most interesting track, with it's fun take on life. Dehle Pe Gulla is for those who love standard Punjabi hip hop.

Jalpari (2012)
Music: Midival Punditz, Ashish Chauhan

Some albums exist only for the sake of enhancing the mood and adding more color to the storytelling. Jalpari is one such album. It will not be fair to scale the talent of the music directors here, as it certainly is not the case, but the album is really boring. Only three tracks: that's some relief.

Brownie point:

• Neeli Neeli Khili Khili Si Duniya - It a decent Indian classical music based song that is soothing when played in the background. It is pleasant as a song when not focused on it. The tempo is good, and the beats and the raag used portrays emotions intensely.

Kafiraana - Joker Sing Raja - Joker Wakhre Wakhre Kaam - Challo Driver Neeli Neeli Khili Khili Si Duniya - Jalpari

Gangs of Wassepur 2, From Sydney With Love, Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi - Music Review

Gangs of Wasseypur 2 (2012)
Music: Sneha Khanwalkar

Sneha Khanwalkar puts to close the two part series of the most daring, offbeat and hilarious album. Continuing the same Bihari, rural theme of Gangs of Wasseypur (1), the songs are again only for the daring and experimental listeners, for those who can handle sarcastic humor in their music.

Brownie point:

• Chhi (Chha Ledar) - The most representative track of this album embodying the oddly funny usage of English lyrics by a rural playback singer. The beats and theme tune of the song, though does not lend for crooning the song at random, is pretty catchy. Fun.
• Bahut Khoob, Bahut Khoob 8 Bit - An extremely surreal mix of sounds of little children talking unintelligibly mixed with daily sounds. For those who love odd mixes.
• Electric Piya, Electric Piya (Fused) - Yet another song that outright mixes traditional rural music with mixed English lyrics in a comic manner. Nothing better than to sing Electric Piya any random time. Would make for a hilarious antakshari or karaoke night.
• Aabroo - A completely rowdy song, the first half is boring, but the climax is amazingly directed.
• Kaala Rey, Moora, Moora (Morning) - These are interesting in that, the songs are very mild allowing the listener to soak in the odd lyrics and not enforcing any theme. Kaala Rey unfolds well from start to end. Moora has an interesting use of string instruments.
• KKL - A strange remix of Keh Ke Loonga from Gangs of Wasseypur (1). Though interesting, the one techno sound is a little overused. Not the best.

Final verdict: Those who like sarcastic music would have found the first part's music pretty interesting and the second part does not let one down on the sarcasm, sticking to the bizarre. Sneha Khanwalkar sure has found her niche in nutty music coming out with Love Sex Aur Dhokha, Bheja Fry 2 and Gangs of Wasseypur 1 and 2.

From Sydney With Love (2012)
Music: Sohail Sen

1. Feeling Love In Sydney ------------------- 6/10
If you loved the tracks in What's Your Rashee?, you might like this one too. This track has a deadpan similarity to that album. His style of an easy paced, leisurely lively music without using too many instrumentals and gimmicks sets him apart. And this track is exactly that.

2. Item Ye Hi Fi --------------------------------- 6/10
A fun and carefree Neeraj Shridhar track. Although this track is overall very average, it's casual lyrics, good beats and tempo makes it likable. The instrumentals connecting two prose are a little unimaginative; Neeraj Shridhar definitely helps its case.

Final verdict: Sohail Sen shows some flashes of good music, but he definitely needs to break out of his own shell and start producing innovative music. Otherwise his stagnation will be his own demise. Just like HR. A decent album, unfortunately in an ordinary fashion.

Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi (2012)
Music: Jeet Ganguly

The album is fairly lively, although most songs suffer from being unoriginal and hence anachronistic for 2012. It could also be that KK has now lost his mojo to captivate his audiences. He sings to his strength in Kaafir Andhere, still fails to impress. All other songs are only average, probably sufficing the plot of the movie, but not good enough outside that context.
Chhi (Chha Ledar) - Gangs of Wasseypur 2 Bahut Khoob - Gangs of Wasseypur 2 Electric Piya - Gangs of Wasseypur 2 Aabroo - Gangs of Wasseypur 2 Kaala Rey - Gangs of Wasseypur 2 Moora - Gangs of Wasseypur 2 KKL - Gangs of Wasseypur 2 Bahut Khoob 8 Bit - Gangs of Wasseypur 2 Electric Piya (Fused) - Gangs of Wasseypur 2 Moora (Morning) - Gangs of Wasseypur 2 Feeling Love In Sydney - From Sydney With Love Item Ye Hi Fi - From Sydney With Love