Saturday, September 19, 2009

Wanted





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Well well well, what have we here? One of Salman Khan's most awaited flicks Wanted has been in the news like a frenzy since the theatrical teaser hit the screens and the websites. The response has been hurricane-like, with movie buffs waiting with bated breath for the movie to unfold this Eid! With the music just hitting the stands, the curiosity level has been sky high so what is the music like? I erase my mind of all irrational expectations before inserting the brand new CD into my laptop, plugging in my headphones and waiting for the pause before iTunes pops up to play the tracks...

BANG! That's how the album starts. However reading the title of the song “Love Me Love Me” you would assume that it would be some lounge track with English lyrics added to it. But we are proven wrong after the immediate start of that powerful ethnic-sounding ‘THUMP’. And once the thump starts, there is no stopping it. Sometimes, Wajid himself comes before the mic to provide eclectic vocals, which make an irresistible combination with Jalees Sherwani's zany lyrics that start off with the lines “Love Me Love Me Love Me, Your Mama says you Love me, My Pappa Says you Love me, Just Love Me Baby Love Me”. The start is immediately hooking and grabs you toward the song for repeated play. Pads have been used well alongside the synth loops that are equally focused. Wajid might have had a blast singing this song as he is completely in form. Amrita Kak is efficient in whatever lines she gets to sing. And considering the picturization of the song, the video of which we have been getting to see in the TV spots recently, the song is an instant hit, and will be constantly on radio, hogging the airplay just as “Twist” from Love Aaj Kal and “Dhan Te Nan” from Kaminey did. It is evident that these songs have cemented their positions as chart-busters. Now it's the time for "Love Me Love Me" to gain fan following far and wide. The infectious beats alongside the opening lyrics are so zany that the song keeps on repeating in my mind. GOD, STOP IT NOW!

We then move on to the second track called“Ishq Vishk” which falls into the R&B / Hip-Hop genre. Strings, followed by hip-hop beats, coupled later with Kamaal Khan's sonic vocals give a fire cracking start to the song! Suzanne provides ample Westernized seductive vocals and gives it extra impact. Sunidhi Chauhan comes later to completely change the feeling of this upbeat romantic track which is a must hear. Listen out especially for Sunidhi’s entry, which raises the song to dizzy heights. Sameer's lyrics are an added highlight. The words are simple, making the masses 'connect' to the song with ease. Surely another infectious hear!

After two extremely contagious and upbeat songs, Sajid and Wajid move into the lounge/romance category with a gem called "Dil Leke". With their trademark stamp over it (i.e. you'll begin to reminisce on Sajid Wajid's “O Jaana” from God Tussi Great Ho and “Lal Dupatta” from Mujhse Shaadi Karoge), some listeners might write it off as déjà vu, but nevertheless, it still turns out to be a magical and delightful track for romantics alike. With just the right elements of Indian and Western melodies fused together I can already picturize Salman Khan and Ayesha Takia Azmi romancing each other either in some opulent set or somewhere outside, somewhere exotic. Shaan and Shreya Ghoshal are wonderful in this song. While Shaan is at his usual best it is Shreya Ghoshal whose vocals manages to open the doors of my imagination to a far away place that is both vivid and exotic. Suzanne's backing vocals are efficient enough, but had they been absent from the song, it would not have made any difference. Overall, another track that requires repeated listening to have the song grow upon the listener.

Post three enjoyable tracks, the album takes a sudden, unexpected and unwanted dip with the next track titled "Le Le Mazaa Le", which is supported by the loud and garish vocals of Hrishikesh Kamerkar and Nikita Nigam. While Sajid Wajid try hard to give the song a Spanish twist, they end up (unintentionally) mixing a variety of genres, thus producing an (probable) item number that fails to deliver the right punch like the previous three tracks. Hrishikesh Kamerkar is unsure of whether he wants to ape R.D. Burman or K.K. He ends up making a really pathetic interpretation of both, which may not amuse fans of either. Nikita Anand tries hard to impress, but well, the track overshadows her (partly) silver lining. The lyrics don't impress either. Overall, this song turns out to be the first damp squib in the soundtrack. One can only wait for the song's picturization to check if it can be redeemed on that count.


The “THUMP” is back with "Jalwa"
which starts yet again with some contagious beats that raise the expectation levels for the song, and as the song progresses, with its part Hindi, part Western synth loops, you want to hear more. But alas, as soon as Wajid Ali starts crooning behind the mic, you realise that the track is nothing more than an ego trip, with the lyrics sketching the character of the role Salman Khan plays in the movie - that of the dreaded gangster “Radhe”. The song had potential due to its fantastic arrangements, and just the right assortment of beats to click with the crowd, but the lyrics totally ruin the whole outing. Jalees Sherwani's decision to take a trip to the 90's spoils it in the process. Overall, a decent track that needs good picturization.

So far it's been all urban/fusion tracks, Sajid and Wajid make a sudden U-Turn with a full-on desi track called "Tose Pyaar Karte Hain". It sounds like a kind of ode to the naughty, playful and upbeat romantic tracks of the 90’s. Just when everyone thought that such a song would never be released again, the duo revisit an era gone by as in David Dhawan comedies and long ago, were termed as fast-paced classics in Kishore Kumar movies and compositions. Somehow, I remember that song from the cult comedy Padosan, called “Ek Chatur Naar Karke Sringar”, which still makes me giggle…. Overall, this one is another must hear.

With six tracks over with, I am suddenly devoid of all expectations for the next song, which reads on the back of the disc cover as "Most Wanted Track". Right from the very start we get Salman’s punch lines from the movie indicating it is a theme track. And theme tracks are arguably meant to be one of the best offerings of the respective soundtrack right? Unfortunately you feel that something's missing with this one and as a result you will find yourself avoiding it unless you’re a die-hard Sallu fanatic. Maybe they could have inserted the instrumental “techno” version of the track which would enhance the listener repeat level on this one.

After the spate of seven original tracks, comes a sudden hurricane of remixes. And I use the word ‘hurricane’, as never in any other Sajid-Wajid album will you find remixes of almost all original songs like you do here! Unfortunately, the remixes fail to click, as all of them have been pepped up with the ‘been-there-heard-that’ club beats, synth loops, and pads, thus making the whole set an average affair that will only be hogged by DJs in clubs. Full review of the remixes can be found below.

To conclude this collaboration between Salman Khan and the duo of Sajid and Wajid is surely no Partner but turns out to be somewhat better and more redeeming than God Tussi Great Ho. The three redeeming tracks are “Love Me Love Me”, “Ishq Vishk”, “Dil Leke” and along with “Jalwa”, have the potential to rise the album to the top of the charts for some weeks until a better album arrives- the upcoming Dil Bole Hadippa will be stiff competition, particularly with the king of chart-busters: Pritam, at the helm. Until then, I can only hope that Salman Khan's prediction comes true and Wanted thunders better than Ghajini in the box office. Until then, let's wait and see!

Additional Analysis- Remixes


“Love Me Love Me (Mama Papa Mix)” - With such a ridiculous and laugh-inducing name, I wondered if the remix would do any good, or perhaps, any justice to the original. But reading such a redeeming name as DJ “Akbar Sami” generated an inbuilt expectation. All this expectation is regrettably shattered as the remix turns out to be a watered-down version of the original, which creates a heavy impact with it's beats but little more. This one's a complete downer. And what's with the Spanish touch? Below average fare.

“Ishq Vishk (Remix)” - With the original again winning hands down in impressing the listener, this one tries the same old trick by increasing the tempo and adding the same old club beats, but compared to the previous one it sounds a little better in comparison, though in reality it isn't really groundbreaking. It's just that the original song is quite overpowering. Undoubtedly it's a decent hear and will find a fair share of admirers and detractors.

“Dil Leke (Remix)” - Now I wonder if it was really necessary to make a remix of this particular song. This one just doesn't make sense; it seems like this mix was made for the sake of making the ‘mix’. A complete downer, considering the original is a much cherished romantic outing, and the remix doesn't help much with the repeat value.

“Jalwa On The House (Remix)” - The original song had amazing beats, but this one works in most parts, because of its eclectic arrangements. This makes it the only remix so far to add any value to the original and gives it some repeat value. While the original did not break much ground due to it's average lyrics, this one has an amazing set of pads, synth loops, bass and beats, therefore making a contagious hear.

“Tose Pyaar Karte Hain (Remix)” - The final remix fails to deliver as it just sounds like an enhanced, extended version of the original with extra beats. Akbar Sami just can't get it right in this one. Sadly, another disappointment.




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Wake up sid !





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With the award-winning trio; Shankar Mahadevan, Ehsaan Noorani and Loy Mendonsa (SEL) teaming up with old associates Karan Johar and Dharma Productions to compose for Wake Up Sid , one expects a lot from this album after the musical super-success of Rock On!! and the (musical) hit Luck By Chance.
SEL get a little experimental with the soft-rock genre in this soundtrack consisting of five original songs (four of which are composed by them, the one guest composition is by Amit Trivedi), and a remix. But the best part of it is that it turns out to be a breath of fresh air after the overdose of commercialized Bhangra-Hip Hop amalgamations that Pritam and co. has dished out in the past few months (a la Dil Bole Hadippa and Love Aaj Kal etc). That’s not to say that Pritam’s compositions are not worth listening to, but once in a while, albums like Wake Up Sid provide a welcome change from the repeated feeling of déjà vu we have experienced for some time (except for the odd soundtracks like Kaminey and Ruslaan, which have also provided a welcome breaks from the monotonous ‘Bhangra’).
The album takes a breezy start with it’s title track, Wake Up Sid, which is pleasant on the ears and immediately gets you into the soft-rock groove. The strings, pads and beats are easy on the ears, and the heavy guitar in the chorus really brings you alive! This one’s a pure winner, and the masses will start loving the track from the word go. Another highlight is Shankar Mahadevan’s crooning to the upbeat lyrics (by Javed Akhtar) that reflect upon the life of Siddharth ‘Sid’ Mehra and where he should be heading. Loy Mendonsa backs Shankar effectively. The last few seconds of the track increases the pitch, giving it a new high and for us, a newfound addiction.
The track even has a ‘Club Mix’ (later on the CD), which isn’t exactly your typical DJ mix, but a rock mix that should work as well as the original itself. Whilst that was successful in making listeners (lazily) hum and sway their heads from side to side, with the help of the added tempo and energy,this one makes you shake your head semi-vigorously and tap your feet!
Kya Karoon? is another track in the alternative / soft rock mode that surely brings a smile to your face (somehow it oddly makes me reminisce “Strawberry Swing” by Coldplay in their recent album Viva la Vida). The lyrics make you connect with the main protagonist, ‘Sid’ and his life, the way he lives it, carefree and jobless etc. Clinton Cerejo’s vocals (coupled with effective backing by Dominique and Loy) make the listening experience a soothing one. If you give this a chance to grow on you it will definitely reward you.
Aaj Kal Zindagi continues with the feel of the whole album, though this one is high on the emotional quotient, and tends to stir your heartstrings particularly when Shankar Mahadevan starts crooning Javed Akhtar’s lyrics:
Tere liye nayee hai zameen naya aasman,(Likh de hawaa mein koi nayee daastaan…
The song turns out to be the most beautiful of the enterprise so far – it really makes you feel like doing something big, achieving something in life. Emotion is the domineering force in the composition and the highlight is the singing by Shankar Mahadevan, who returns after the title track, only this time he registers the additional emotional impact. A must listen!
If you thought Aaj Kal Zindagi was emotional, then here comes another contender titled Iktara and one that is surely going to have you either moist-eyed or emotionally stirred by the end of the song. The singers (especially Kavita Seth) give their all, and combined with the composition by guest composer Amit Trivedi (Dev.D fame), this song turns out to be the most soul-stirring of the lot. Lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya (who also doubles up as a fabulous backing vocalist to this one) register an impact. Another fabulous listen!
The album ends on the same light-hearted note with which it started in the form of Life is Crazy, which is brimming with vibrancy and energy and as a result, turns out to be an addictive hear. In fact, you might become so fond of it that you will want to have it on repeat-mode until your thirst for the song is quenched! What also works in the track are the zany vocals by Uday Benegal and Shankar Mahadevan (with effective backing by Loy and Alyssa Mendonsa). SEL have another potential hit on their hands and whilst it isn’t as impacting as the previous two it’s still as addictive and provides a fitting end.
After the soundtrack ends, I find myself smiling – rather grinning – broadly (and widely) and a feeling of upbeat happiness fills inside me at listening to such refreshing music. Since the emergence of commercial soft-rock which was received in such spectacular fashion with Pritam’s Life in a… METRO , we had another great (rock) soundtrack Rock On!! and now it’s back to rule our hearts with Wake Up Sid. Whilst not the best out of the stables of Shankar, Ehsaan & Loy (they have composed far better songs) the soundtrack still turns out to be a must-buy for music lovers, lovers of soft-rock, and probably fans who want a real change from the commercial soundtracks that have come up in the form of Wanted, Dil Bole Hadippa! and the like. 








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Friday, September 18, 2009

Blue


BLUE


Aaj Dil Gustakh Hai

Bhoola Tujhe

Blue Theme

Chiggy Wiggy

Fiqrana

Rehnuma


Yaar Mila Tha

Producer: Dhilin Mehta
Director: Anthony D’Souza
Starring: Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Kumar, Lara Dutta, Zayed Khan, Rahul Dev and Katrina Kaif, Kabir Bedi
Music: A.R. Rahman
Lyrics: Abbas Tyrewala, Mayur Puri, Rajat Arora, Sukhwinder Singh, Raqueeb Alam
Singers: Kylie Minogue, Sonu Nigam, Suzanne, Shreya Ghoshal, Sukhwinder Singh, Benny Dayal, Hentry Kuruvilla, Shi Millhouse, Raven Millhouse, Vijay Prakash, Rashid Ali, Blaaze, Raqueeb Alam, Sonu Kakkar, Jaspreet Singh, Neha Kakkar, Dilshad, Udit Narayan, Madhushree, Ujjayinee Roy
Audio On: T-Series Number of Songs: 7
Album Released on: 10 September 2009



“This is my first film after the Oscars. So expectations are scary. It’s important to work with a great team to create great music and we’ve done that with Blue. What’s special about Blue is that it’s an underwater adventure. So it was very exciting to do this score because as a composer it’s important that you don’t get typecast. It’s also important to give the kind of music the film requires and have fun with it!”

~A.R. Rahman

Oh yes indeed, there certainly does happen to be a very justified reason for all the euphoria Hindi music fans are experiencing—two words: Rahman. Blue.

Okay, okay! Arrey yaar, don’t have a panic attack! I won’t leave you hanging mid-air with just those two words. I’ll take you through my listening experience for all 7 tracks! As Rahman himself suggests, “Drown into the music of Blue.” As you wish…

FYI, Resul Pookutty is the sound designer for Blue. Thought I’d throw that information out there!


It’s no secret. We’ve all heard news buzz about actress and pop singer Kylie Minogue singing for Rahman in Blue. Yup, the name of the track is Chiggy Wiggy and the very talented Sonu Nigam also joins her for the musical joyride. The female to-too-too-too-too-too's are rather contagious and upbeat, and Kylie’s vocals are really refreshing to listen to. The beats are catchy, heck, this entire song is catchy, and the big surprise is when Sonu comes in 2.14 into the song shouting “Gore!!!” and the song fuses Punjabi beats and lyrics with Kylie’s western rendition. Grab someone and sing, “I wanna chiggy wiggy with you!” It’s nice how Abbas Tyrewala paid attention to using alliteration—so many “k” and “kh” sounds: Khaatoon, Khidmat, Kaatil, Khilaadi, Kaatilanaa. One of my favorite stanzas is, “But I don’t’ need a shining star, And I don’t want to be rescued, No neither frog, nor charming princes, Nor my summers barbecued…I wanna chiggy-wiggy with you boy!” Sonu’s “oye’s” and the stretched out “rabba” at the end will make you smile. Welcome back, Sonu! Hope to hear more of you regularly.

Shreya Ghoshal. This girl has been surprising us all with her amazing versatility as a singer (just take a look at the two extremes—Bhor Bhaye/Delhi-6; Latoo/Ghajini). It’s nice to hear her modulate her voice for a more chilled-back effect in Aaj Dil Gustakh Hai. Mayur Puri’s lyrics are rather average though (“aaj din gustaakh hai, paaniyo pe aag hai, dhadkan bhi betaab hai”), and the song does take repeat listens to get into. Sukhwinder Singh doesn’t really shine much in this song…honestly, Rahman could have easily taken Hariharan or Suresh Wadekar and it would still have had the same effect. Okay, okay, not trying to be mean or anything! There are plenty of people credited with backing vocals: Benny Dayal, Hentry Kuruvilla and Shi Millhouse, Raven Millhouse. Sanjeev Thomas does a nice job with playing the guitar. The piano also stands out in the song.

Stresed out lately? Chhodd naa yaar. Fiqr not, Fiqrana is here! The song starts off initially reminding me of Kaise Mujhe from Ghajini. Vijay Prakash (Manmohini, Jai Ho, Paal Paal Hai Bhari) takes the mic for this song. The stanza going “Jeet-te hai adh adh adh ke hum” brings back mild memories of a crossover of Hum Honge Kaamiyaab and Illayaraja’s Chal Chalein Title Track. Lyrics are by Ajit Arora, who also wrote lyrics for Singh Is Kinng and dialogues for Om Shanti Om, and honestly, it’s cool to hear a phrase like “khaamaa khaa,” but that's just about the only phrase that stands out in the lyrics. There are lots of electronic sounds used, and Shreya doesn’t have much to offer in this track, unfortunately.

Awesome! Rashid Ali (Kabhi Kabhi Aditi, Kahin Toh Hogi Woh, Ishq Ada Hai, Naadhir Thinna) is back in Bhoola Tujhe. Kavita Baliga, a teacher at Rahman’s music school, is also credited with “Yeri Voice.” It’s nice to hear Rashid’s soulful voice, and even the questioning tone of Abbas Tyrewala’s lyrics are beautiful...The song starts off with mesmerizing strings (Chennai Strings Orchestra) and then the guitar (Sanjeev Thomas) comes in followed by the trumpet (Kishore Sodha). Tension continues to build up with drums joining in at 1.54 into the song. But, honestly speaking, the lyrics and Rashid’s style of singing doesn’t really mesh well with the music…or, perhaps that is the point…to indicate a sense of internal tension going on…

Oh. My. God! Blue Theme is one BIG party!! People went crazy with Jai Ho—make ‘em listen to this. So much is going on in this song…not just in terms of instruments but even singers. We have two lyricists (Sukhwinder Singh for the Punjabi portion and Raqueeb Alam for the Hindi portion) and we also have SIX singers: Blaaze, Raqueeb Alam, Sonu Kakkar, Jaspreet Singh, Neha Kakkar and Dilshad. Just try not to dance when this song is blasting through your speakers—you just can’t resist! I have to draw special attention to lyricist Raqueeb Alam (Jiya Se Jiya/Connections; Ringa Ringa/Slumdog Millionaire; Ishq Ada & Meherbaan/Ada)—he manages to write lyrics to a fun-filled song but he doesn’t sacrifice poetry and imagery--“bekhauff nigaahein,” “rangeen sharaare,” “bearish ke taarein,” “bedaagh vafaayein,” “saagar ke dil mei jitney khazaane, dil ke saagar mei, utne afsaane.” Wow!


You know, even if I didn’t know Rehnuma is for Blue, the first image that would have come to mind after listening to this song IS water! That’s one of the amazing qualities of Rahman’s music—they really do conjure up images and memories. Listen to Himalayas from Connections and bingo, that’s exactly what you’ll imagine. Listen to Rehnuma, and, yes, that’s right, you imagine the under-water world. Sonu Nigam and Shreya Ghoshal come together for this song, and Abbas Tyrewala pens down lyrics once again--the only two lines that really grabbed my attention are "leher si yeh baahein" and "zulfo ki qaid mubaarak tujhe ho"...and, that's about it. The way Sonu and Shreya stretch each word and seem in no hurry has a relaxing effect. And, if it wasn’t already obvious by now, Sonu does a damn good job with loud vocals!

After the Blue Theme, Yaar Mila Tha has got to be my favorite track from Blue. It’s one of the strongest compositions—no wonder Rahman chooses two very gifted singers—Madhushree and Udit Narayan—for this song. Ujjayinee Roy, Shi Millhouse, and Raven Millhouse are credited with backing vocals. Abbas Tyrewala really excels in providing fun “roothaa-roothi” “chhedd-chaad” lyrics. Just take a look at these lines:

Raah takti thi toh khafaa ho gayi thi tu yaa bewafaa?

Ke panghat pe ghoonghat ke binaa,

Jaa baithi kaise tu woh bhi mere binaa?!

Ussi panghat pe jaahaan jhat se pehli baar thaami thi maine teri kalaayi, harjaayi!

Jaahan dhoop se hum bache the, jaahaan nache the apne kadam,

Aur besharam, woh kalayi,

Tu thamaa ke aayi,

Haathon mein naa jaane kis khotte ke, kis potte ke, mere hote se par sote se!

Par tu ne hi toh usse bhejaa naa?

Ke meraa pyaar piyaa ko de jaanaa.

When I heard Udit Narayan sing the word "khote" I couldn't help but giggle. The song is just so sweet and playful naa yaar! The electronic shehnaai sound is really fun to listen to and so are the “taa teenaa teen teen teenaa” chorus vocals. The percussion arrangements are perfect. Both Madhushree and Udit Narayan really get into the song, which is nice since these days most singers sing without any feel.

Rahman himself says he wanted to have “fun” with Blue and doesn’t want to get “typecast.” Yes, Blue does have some fun compositions such as the Blue Theme, Chiggy Wiggy and Yaar Milaa Thaa. And, composition-wise, the rest of the songs are also enjoyable to listen to…however, lyrics, for the most part, are a HUGE disappointment, and there isn’t consistency in terms of quality throughout the OST. While some songs grab your attention immediately, songs like Aaj Dil Gustaakh Hai will take a very long time to grow on you, and even then, it feels as if you’re forcing yourself to feel excited about some of the songs. All that said and done, it can’t be denied that it is really wonderful to have another Rahman OST to listen to, and there certainly is something for every listener in Blue, so you really DO have to give this OST a listen.

Gosh, I can’t believe you’re still sitting at your computer. Music is meant to be listened to, it is meant to be experienced. And, no review can compensate for that (Gasp! That wasn’t very politically correct, was it?). So, do yourself a huge favor by going through the “Rahman experience” on your own…that’s right y’all—grab the Blue CD and drive ‘em music blues far, far away!!

[Slight Side Note: Party time for Rahmaniacs--The music of Shekhar Kapurs’s Passage is also out and the music composer is none other than The Rahman. So do be sure to give that a listen as well!]













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Thursday, September 17, 2009

What`s Your Raashee


Mp3

Aa Le Chal

Aja Lehraate

Bikhri Bikhri

Chehre Jo Dekhe Hain

Dhadkan Dhadkan

Jao Na

koi jaane na

Mannuga mannuga

Pal Pal Dil Jisko Dhoonde

Pyaari Pyaari

Salone Kya

Sau Janam

Su Chhe







Video




Producer: Ronnie Screwvala, Sunita Gowariker
Director: Ashutosh Gowariker
Starring: Harman Baweja, Priyanka Chopra, Anjan Srivastava, Visshwa Badola, Rajesh Vivek, Dilip Joshi, Daya Shanker Pandey, Honey Chhaya, Darshan Jariwala, Manju Singh, Bhairavi Vaidya Manoj Shah, Pratik Dixit, Geeta Tyagi
Music: Sohail Sen
Lyrics: Javed Akhtar
Singers: Sohail Sen, Tarannum Malik, Bhavya Pandit, Shaan, Marianne D’Cruz, Ashutosh Gowariker, Pamela Jain, Madhushree (Sujata Bhattacharya), Udit Narayan, Aslesha Gowariker, Harman Baweja, Alka Yagnik, Bela Shende, Rajab Ali Bharti
Audio On: Sony Music Number of Songs: 13
Album Released on: 18 August 2009



What's Your Raashee? - A Musical Extravaganza!

Baazi (1995) earned him a name. Lagaan (2000) set him a standard. Swades (2004) made him a versatile director (having tried out three genres – historic fiction, action thriller, and social drama). And Jodhaa Akbar (2008) finally made him a name to reckon with. He is none other than the passionate Ashutosh Gowariker whose next film What’s Your Raashee? Kimball Ravenswood, a satirical take on marriages and astrology) has created tremendous buzz ever since it was announced and that could be for many reasons – the second-time pairing of Harman Baweja and Priyanka Chopra after their half-decent, half-disastrous sci-fi epic Love Story 2050 (2008), Ashutosh’s first-time venture into a romantic comedy, Priyanka Chopra’s twelve distinct characters, and of course, the MUSIC. (which is an adaptation of Madhu Rye’s novel

The music is in the news because of the apparent end of the musical collaboration of Gowariker and A. R. Rahman with the former trying out something new with relatively unknown and newcomer Sohail Sen (son of Sameer Sen who himself was part of the 'Dilip Sen-Sameer Sen' fame). With expectations reaching an all-new high with the innovative marketing UTV Motion Pictures has tried out, considering the promos and the posters, Sohail Sen creates a curiosity level among people, with their minds churning out questions like: “Will Sohail Sen be able to make music for Ashutosh Gowariker?”, “Will Ashutosh Gowariker’s music succeed without A. R. Rahman?” and “Will the expectations generated from the buzz be met?”

But worry not, as Ashutosh Gowariker, Sohail Sen and Javed Akhtar have collaborated together to bring us a world-class thirteen-track musical extravaganza that turns out to be far different from the usual bubblegum fare the Bollywood composers have churned out in the recent past. Sohail Sen has given us a winner in the form of What’s Your Raashee?, with each of the first twelve songs being dedicated to a particular star-sign, personifying it by capturing the mood of the star-sign-associated person through his fantastic music and Javed Akhtar’s cleverly written lyrics, thus making this album Gowariker’s biggest musical outing of his career.

The quality shows from the very start with the song "What’s Your Raashee? (Pal Pal Dil Jisko Dhoonde)" (made for Aries), an out-and-out jazz song that starts off with the saxophone, an effect that sways you off your feet. Never before in Bollywood has Jazz music been dished out in such an international manner and given such an international feel. Alternatively made the title song of the film, this goes about depicting the problem the protagonist (Yogesh, played by Harman Baweja) has trying to find his dream girl. In fact, the chants of ‘What’s Your Raashee?’ take the song to another high, and you would be singing it aloud sometime after the second hear. Just when we think that the swing beat would continue, the song’s tempo heightens for a while to give variety. Sohail Sen comes behind the mic to give us a smashing solo, which will linger in your mind for a long time to come. This one not only makes for a pleasant hear, but also gives a grand opening to the album, whilst enhancing expectations for the tracks to come.

The expectations are fortunately met with the next track, which has a romantic outing. This one, titled "Jao Naa" (made for Aquarius), has been the most publicized track in the whole album so far. The track has been lapped up well, and it shows – the strums of the guitar attract you from the off, followed by Sohail Sen’s delightful singing for what turns out to be a powerhouse track that will be on your playlist and the radio charts in the days to come. Tarannum Malik vocally backs up Sohail Sen, but though Sen dominates her voice, it leaves a distinct, dreamy feel on the listener. The video (seen on TV and online nowadays) doesn’t harm its prospects at all – in fact, it leaves an even better mark, making the viewer smile. A must listen, and a beautiful number at that!

Just when you expect the feeling of romance to continue, Sohail Sen gives us a classy up-tempo track that gives us a rather R&B / hip-hop styled dance number – a style you’ve never heard of in any soundtrack of Ashutosh Gowariker’s previous films (“Yunhi Chala Chal” from Swades (2004) was more philosophical). Called "Aaja Lehrate" (made for Gemini), this one takes its time to grow on you, and once it does, you get into the groove as well. Shaan is his usual best and Bhavya Pandit provides the firebrand vocals that are required for the track. If there’s a disappointment, it’s is the abrupt and unusual ending when it switches to a club vibe.

Romance is back with "Bikhri Bikhri" (made for Cancer), but this time with a distinct Indian touch and intense feel to it. Yet again, Sohail Sen runs away with the accolades as the composer-come-singer pulls out another winner! The ‘antara’ portions of Marianne D’Cruz (and Sohail Sen, whose ‘antara’ is on reverb in the background, giving the song an entirely dreamy touch) only enhance the overall impact the song has upon the listener, who might already be floored with the exquisite Rahman-esque touch and the trademark poetic lyrics by Javed Akhtar. Though it is as romantic in nature as the first two tracks, this one is high on the emotional quotient and has a hint of sadness to it. Expect music connoisseurs and romantic music lovers to lap this up with excitement.

Expect the unexpected with "Maanunga Maanunga" (made for Libra) for basically two reasons – Ashutosh Gowariker turning singer with this track (yes you read it here first!), and the hilarious lyrics by Javed Akhtar who brilliantly depicts a ‘Libran control freak’ (one of Priyanka Chopra’s twelve characters) that requires Yogesh (Harman) to do anything she tells him to. The arrangements, a combination of orchestration and electronic beats, don’t disappoint and gel well with the whole ‘uptight’ atmosphere. Ashutosh Gowariker has hidden his singing talent for a long time and here he successfully expresses the uptight, nervous nature of Harman’s character, opposite to Pamela Jain’s soft, high-pitched vocals. Though it won’t acquire top billing, this one surely doesn’t deserve the skip that listeners make when they find an average number.

The romance numbers of the 1990s return in a soft-rock avatar with "Sau Janam" (made for Pisces), a melodious number featuring Sujata Bhattacharya (popularly known as Madhushree to the world today) and Udit Narayan. Both singers give their all to this song and remind us of the many duets Narayan was involved in (mainly with Alka Yagnik). Music lovers will surely associate this song with quite a few oldies including “Akele Hain Toh Kyaa Gham Hai” from the Aamir-Juhi starrer Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988) and “Rehna Hai Dil Mein” from Indra Kumar’s Mann (1999). But the underlying beauty of this song is that whilst reminding us of various songs from the past decade, it doesn’t sound re-hashed or copied, and rather underlines the ‘the good old times’ successfully. Another melodious outing that continues the smooth sail of listening to the album, this one requires the repeat value and patience to make this song a desirable hear to the listener.

What happens when 'old' meets 'new'? What happens when hip-hop beats meet retro synth? What happens when an urban number reminds you of the 1950s? The answer is "Aa Le Chal" (made for Scorpio) which, to begin with, sounds like a typical hip hop number but later brings out a fresh cocktail of the sounds of today mixed with the sounds of yesteryears. Asleesha Gowariker (sister of Ashutosh Gowariker) comes behind the mic to give an Alisha-esque feeling to the song. One cannot help but feel for Harman Baweja’s character as he utters his dialogues in this track about a scorpion (Priyanka’s character) who is a hopeless romantic and wants Harman to do all kinds of things (like writing her name in the sky, to which a non-flustered Harman replies, ‘Aasmaan pe… tera naam? Alright’ which brings a reaction from the listener in the form of a smile). This one though, turns out to be more of a situational track that would look good on screen, provided the video has been well thought-out. But considering Ashutosh Gowariker’s passion and dedication to make a film, I think it should work out really well. Overall, a pleasant hear.

Jut when we thought about Alka Yagnik in the earlier song Sau Janam, she makes a trademark entry into "Pyaari Pyaari" (made for Virgo). As she starts singing in the first stanza, one realizes that though there have been many award-winning singers in the recent past, Alka Yagnik’s place can never be taken – she has created a certain space for herself, just like veteran singers such as Asha Bhonsle and Lata Mangeshkar. But I’m pleased to see the choice of songs she has been singing in the recent past, testifying as well as justifying the fact that she has become quite selective on what she wants to sing (she has been doing almost all of her previous songs under the compositions of A. R. Rahman, e.g. “Tu Muskura” from Yuvvraaj (2008), and “Ringa Ringa” from Slumdog Millionaire) (2008)– and that’s really good news. Sohail Sen’s voice is very restrained here, and it works for this beautiful piece of work, which has just the right orchestral arrangements to make for a memorable outing. This has to be the most impactful track after Bikhri Bikhri, and one that will strike gold for the avid music listener as well as Sen! I am left speechless after hearing this, just as I was for Bikhri Bikhri.

Starting off ordinarily with the accordion, "Su Chhe" (made for Taurus) turns out to be a contemporary Gujju track with some Gujarati lyrics peppered here and there, but with a subtle difference (the difference being the absence of the irritating and over used “Hey-Jee-Ray” scream). The start doesn’t sound promising, but as Bela Shende starts singing, you suddenly change your mind and decide that the tune is hummable and the music pleasant. Pleasant since it builds on an already enjoyable soundtrack. Give it a listen because you won’t find the typical tried-and-tested formula of making Gujarati styled tracks in Bollywood – instead, you’ll find something different, upbeat, and modern. A simple and nice addition to the soundtrack, though nothing earth shattering.

The accordion continues in the next track but this time coupled with the harmonium, to create an old world feel yet again for "Salone Kya" (made for Sagittarius). The lyrics, whilst situational, provide something really fresh. Sen uses all his skill to create a different atmosphere for each track, which in turn reflect the feelings and the personality of each star sign and the associated character that Priyanka Chopra plays. Arrangements and mixing stand out in this song, with vocals by Tarannum Malik who sounds like a strange mixture of Alka Yagnik and Shreya Ghoshal, but nevertheless, performs really well alongside Sohail Sen (good as usual). The song will have it’s fair share of admirers looking for something new but also detractors, for not matching the best that the album has to offer. Another unique song, this one should also score on screen.

Amazingly we have had 10 songs already and each one has registered an impact in its own unique manner, one wonders what the remaining tracks will offer? The next one "Dhadkan Dhadkan" (made for Leo), captures Leo’s intensity with a fantastic array of energetic arrangements! Starting with a pad that fades away, the sudden orchestral arrangements light up a track that shines throughout and such an impact was last heard in “Dil Ka Rishta” from A. R. Rahman’s Yuvvraaj (2008). The duo of Tarannum Malik and Sohail Sen return after Jao Naa and Salone Kya to give a totally different feel to this song. The inspiration is such that you end up picturing the song onstage or in some auditorium. Whilst situational in nature, it continues the successful run of the album on it’s closing tracks.

The piano returns alongside traditional instruments for the penultimate track"Koi Jaane Na" (made for Capricorn). Rajab Ali Bharti’s semi classical style really ups the song a notch or two. Sohail Sen’s backing reverb-based crooning to the title takes the song to an all-time-high. Bela Shende amply supports him with her saccharine-sweet vocals that compliment this all Indian feeling song with its distinct emotional touch. Lyrics by Javed saab are philosophical and at times heart-wrenching, expect this to bring a tear to your eye. One of the few 'reflective' songs on the album, this can't be missed!

The album ends with an icing on the whole cake with the second part of What’s Your Raashee?, titled "Chehre Jo Dekhe Hain", an exquisite medley of the twelve tracks gone by in the album. This turns out to the song in which Priyanka is supposed to appear in all her twelve avatars simultaneously in just one song; the very song Priyanka was told to have to dance for 12 hours in one stretch, without a break! Sohail Sen croons the lyrics of Javed Akhtar, which hint at a few things e.g. that the time has come to choose his girl. This song will be a blast when seen in the pre-climax and climax portions. It's as pleasant as the first part of the title track, though its definitely more upbeat and lively due to scenario presented. People will have their own preferences but I think I prefer the first part due to it’s smooth, slow and lazy feel. But you will have to listen to find out which one you prefer!

Ashutosh Gowariker, Sohail Sen and Javed Akhtar give us one of the classiest, grandest and most eclectic musical extravaganzas to come in a long time (along with Dev.D which released earlier this year). Overall, What’s Your Raashee? , being a relatively smaller film of Ashutosh Gowariker compared to his previous three epic movies, musically springs out one of the biggest surprises this summer. This one is a must buy, not only because it pack in a variety of sounds (ethnic as well as urban – each one sounding unique and different from the other), but also because of the logical placement of the tracks (linked to each star sign), which allows us to visualize the way things go in the movie, making us expect something more out of it. This being Harman’s first film with a top soundtrack (with the music of Love Story 2050 (2008) being strictly decent, and Victory (2008) below par), Harman should be proud. And so should Ashutosh Gowariker, with his new musical protégé – Sohail Sen. With such a sparkling debut soundtrack, he is here to stay for sure!

REVIEWER'S TIP: Requires attentive, relaxed and patient hearing; strictly for the connoisseurs of music.


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