Ghost (2011) Music Review

Rating: ★ ★ ★ 1/2

An unknown/small banner very often provide some good tunes, and if the lead actor is the controversial Shiney Ahuja (who was last seen in 'Hijack' -2008) alongside Sayali Bhagat, that too in a horror flick, one expects a below average score from the movie. Moreover, except Kumaar, the other two lyricist- A.M.Turaz and Sandeep Nath doesn't quite excites the listener and Sharib-Toshi's (Music Directors) last release 'Phirr' (2011) offered nothing special on the musical front, leave alone the movie. Period. The talented composer duo is in with a surprise package with 'Ghost', which not only exceeds the expectations that one has from the music, but also provides some handsome stuff in the five originals. 2009 saw Sharib-Toshi in full fledged form, where they provided some outstanding compositions in 'Jashnn' , some good tracks in 'Jail' and who can forget the 'Maahi' from 'Raaz- The Mystery Continues'. So, let's see what magic they can create this time!

The proceedings starts with a haunting, melodious composition "Jalwanuma" by Toshi and Akram Sabri which needs few hearings to settle down. The high pitched voice of Toshi reminds of 'Maahi' and it’s real hard to recognise the voice of Akram Sabri except in the prelude. It’s a promising start considering the horror tag attached to the movie and should do fine among the listeners, but certainly it lacks the energy of an opening track. Decent Hear altogether.

"Aaja Khatam Sabr" is a situational naughty-night track where Sayali Bhagat will be seen luring Shiney Ahuja. Composers play safe by opting Sunidhi Chauhan for a composition like this. The lyrics are stereo-typed (A.M. Turaz) and words like ‘Jaaniya’ ‘Maahiya’ sounds so common and have nothing new. It should do well along the film's narrative and could make up for a good video if picturised well.

Sharib-Toshi produced a beautiful track "Aaya Re" in 'Jashnn' and the next track "Salaame Salaame" slightly falls in the same corridor. It’s a good attempt with Sharib's backing vocals (he does a 'Jayesh Gandhi' in the alaap) and the charming voice of Shaan alongside some rapping by BoB- The Rapper (remember 'Make Some Noise For The Desi Boyz'). But considering it as a dance number, it’s not that foot tapping and grooving, and neither the lyrics by Kumaar creates any impact. I doubt whether Shiney Ahuja will be able to pull this off and create any kind of sensation with the visual. Skip!

Till now, listeners have lost all hope, but the last two tracks are pure gem and displays the trademark rock-love genre of Sharib-Toshi, for which they have been praised earlier, case in point, 'Sainya Ve- Rock Version' (Jail), 'Maahi- Rock Version' (Raaz- The Mystery Continues). First in line is "Dil Ke Liye" by Javed Ali (who shot to fame with A.R.Rahman 'Jashn-E-Baharaan' in the magnum opus 'Jodha Akbar'-2008) and if you loved the singer previous classic 'Ek Din Teri Raahon Mein' from 'Naqaab'-2007, you are sure to get spellbound by 'Dil Ke Liye' which is melodious and at the same time has musical arrangements which deserves attention (especially the guitar strums in the 2nd interlude). Priya Patidar supports well for the 'O-Ya-E-Yo' and some alaap portions at the start and in the interludes, also Sandeep Nath impresses in the lyrics department. Overall, a song that the movie should bank on for promotions. Must hear!

The best track "Kaha Hai Tu" awaits the listeners at the very last for which the talented Sharib Sabri comes behind the mike. The guitar riffs at the start and then at 0.35 gives a feeling of Déjà Vu and reminds of 'Aadat Si Hai Mujhko- Rock Version' by the band 'Jal', but it's a mere coincidence as this feeling only lasts for 20 seconds and from there on, Sharib's high-pitched vocals and Kumaar lyrics creates a rock ribbed aura that shouts- 'Once More!'. Take special notice of some elegant notes by Sharib at 3.43. It’s a composition that should be promoted aggressively and no wonder if a special video is being released for the film's promotions, considering the past record of Shiney Ahuja in 'Tu Hi Meri Shabh Hai' from 'Woh Lamhe' and some tracks in 'Life In A Metro' and 'Gangster'. Don't dare to miss this masterpiece!

Wait for the day when Sharib-Toshi gets an opportunity to work with a big banner, although they have worked with the Vishesh Camp (Bhatt’s) previously, but unfortunately both movies went dhadaam at the box office and so the soundtrack never got the appreciation it deserved, especially in case of 'Jashnn'. This time also, they have provided some graceful and rocking composition and I doubt if at all it will reach the masses and gain popularity. The best is yet to come from the talented house of Sabri brothers!
I rate it 3.5 out of 5 (half star only for the talented young borthers)

Edited Version @ Planet-Bollywood