Melodies of 2015!

 Bollywood Music has changed a lot over last few years; EDM/club numbers have dominated the music industry with some non-sensical lyrics. 2015 revived the magic of melodies and offered various lyrically rich numbers that made peace with our soul although there was nothing groundbreaking stuff but still there were compositions which melted hearts.

Here is my list of some of the better songs to come out in 2015, not all compositions gathered the commercial success which they deserved but definitely these are worth a hear!

1. Bezubaan (Piku):  Composer, singer, lyricist - Anupam Roy - made his dignified debut in Bollywood with this soundtrack. This composition is not your usual commercial bollywood music albeit it's like a breezy sunset evening with a hot cup of tea and your thoughtful imaginative world, a slow build up that grows on you, something that gives your philosophical thought process wings. A special mention for the in-depth lyrics (Nange Paanv Daudi Aankhen Meri) and the gorgeous arrangements, especially when Sarod is heard at 01:53 and then goes solo from 03:50 to 04:30, what a gorgeous amalgamation of classical and western arrangements, pure musical bliss! 

2. Aayat (Bajirao Mastani): Remember 'Laal Ishq' from 'Ram-Leela', this composition takes that legacy one notch higher. It starts off (and ends too) on a ghazal'ish alaap with classical instruments in the backdrop elegantly arranged and orchestrated, Arijit Singh joins in and pierces your heart at first go, what with the interlude at 2 minutes with gorgeous tabla and Qawwali beautifully interwoven around a poetry that justifies that Love needs no boundaries, no religion, no reason, in fact Love is a religion itself. I don't remember any composition in a long time that kept me on loop like this gem from Bhansali!

3. Agar Tum Saath Ho (Tamasha): As a soundtrack 'Tamasha' was not at par with A.R.Rahman and Imtiaz Ali previous ventures but the songs justified the Director's vision. This composition takes your breath away with the innocent charm that it carries, the extraordinary overlapping effect where the renditions of Arijit Singh goes at never heard before vocal level and an ultra low octave at the same time, quite innovative. This is one of those serene pieces from Rahman that is going to stuck in your heart and mind for long time.

4. Humnava (Hamari Adhuri Kahani ): Although the song lands in the familiar trademark territory of Mithoon but the presence of Papon imparts a refreshing aura where the melody captivates you and tugs at your heartstrings. Melodically intoxicating!

5. Jeena Jeena (Badlapur): Sachin-Jigar and Atif Aslam makes a deadly combination and hardly disappoints. Guitar strums dominates the song with some painful lyrics that makes you hit the 'Repeat' mode straightaway. 

6.Kinna Sona (Bhaag Johnny): Sung by Sunil Kamath, this is not the usual-melodious-Mithoon, in fact Mithoon revisits the old world Sufi charm with this one, the same magic that he unleashed with 'Maula Mere Maula' (Anwar-2007). Give this one a try; it will mesmerize your musical imagination!

7. Sapna Jahan (Brothers): An engaging melody with some terrific arrangements (especially the second interlude and the use of tabla), add to that magnetic charm of Sonu Nigam, sprinkle some sublime renditions by Neeti Mohan and some beautiful lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya, there you have, a composition that leaves you in trance, that takes you through a journey where you discover the beautiful feeling of love, a feeling that is the most beautiful gift of God!

8. Moh Moh Ke Dhaage (Dum Laga Ke Haisha): Anu Malik surprised everyone with this classical composition that rides high on Papon's pretentious singing (what a classically trained textured voice!) and some fabulous orchestra lead by flute and harmonium. What a spellbinding, peaceful work by all the artists!

9. Main Hoon Hu Hero Tera (Hero): Amaal Malik became a household name this year with several hits in his bag, if not for the melody, definitely Sooraj Dooba Hai (Roy) would have been on top of my list but this soft romantic number touches heart, be it the simple yet effective lyrics or saccharine filled vocals of Armaan Malik, everything creates a soothing aura that makes you feel the warmth of love.

10. Tu Hai Ki Nahi (Roy): This composition by Ankit Tiwari ruled the first quarter of 2015 with his trademark auto tuned lazy vocals, a soaring melody and some wonderful arrangements, not to forget the haunting whistle part.

As far as innovation is concerned Amit Trivedi’s ‘Bombay Velvet ’ was a killer of a jazzy soundtrack that quenched the listeners looking for something Hatke; also I loved how beautifully Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy orchestrated 'Girls Like To Swing' from 'Dil Dhadakne Do'. If I were to choose my best melodious heart touching soundtrack, it would be ‘Hamari Adhuri Kahani’ where each and every composition was soul stirring and came with a strong repeat value. Sadly the movie bombed at the box office and as a result the soundtrack didn’t received the appreciation that it deserved. Anyways, let’s see what’s the trend of music in 2016 and what these magicians has in store for us.

The blogger is a music analyst at www.kiagia.com

Tamasha! My View Point

"Its like a creative painting on the canvas where you will either appreciate the in-depth of every artistic brush stroke used or you will see it as a mere sheet of paper with several colours spilled on it."

Remember, when you were a small kid, you did silly things, things that excited you, things that made you curious and all that was done without any motive, without any fear, nobody told you to do things, if you liked something you did it..That’s the basic notion that came to my mind when Ranbir Kapoor talks to his family in the climax and described his 'Bachpan' as the only thing that praised him, only thing that said 'Hey! You are Special' and how we let that phase die when we grow up!

There are several moments in the movie that are heart wrenching, one of the most amazing of them comes post interval where Deepika confronts Ranbir and seeks forgiveness upon realising that she has tickled the most complex emotional part of him which is followed by a brilliant composition ( Agar Tum Saath Ho). No one in this industry justifies a scene with a song with so much grace and perfection like Imtiaz Ali, such that the overall result is so honest and genuine that it touches your soul. Music has always been an important aspect of his ventures and same goes here where it’s used as a narrative to enhance the inherent drama of the situation, Matargashti, Safarnama, Tu Koi Aur Hai are the soul of the movie and depicts various moods in the narrative.

The story unfolds in a non linear way where we see the transformation of Ved as to how he is fascinated by mythological stories and weaves his childhood imagining them at every step, people around him are merely characters from some or the other stories he had heard before, then we see him as a person who has killed his wildness, his passion, his stories and has now become blunt to be a participant in a race whose cause is undefined, to be a part of the society where people are competing and running for financial security without giving a second thought as to who they are from the inside and what they want from life as a result he becomes a person who works nine to five, is well behaved, even when it comes to sex. There is one small scene where Ved talks to an Autorikshaw driver who explains how he wanted to be a singer but couldn’t due to monetary reasons, very simply stated: 'Andar Se Kuch Aur Hoon lekin Bahar se Majboor Hoon'.

Later on we see a split personality of Ved who gets shattered when Tara comes back and reminds him that in trying to belong he has lost his own identity somewhere, he has forgotten who he is, it’s not that simple as it takes the undoing of his entire life's experience and the energy. There are several scenes where we see the angst and outburst of Ved in between his normal conversations, note how he switches emotions when he confronts Tara (after somewhat called as breakup) at her home or when he freaked out his boss, that’s a psychotic behaviour one would associate with Jordon of Rockstar, Ranbir stands out in these several scenes where Deepika scores big with her expressive eyes and vibrant energy. Imtiaz Ali belongs to that rare breed of Directors that brings the best out of each artist they are working with.

Tamasha grows on you like a vintage wine, something that stays with you for long once you move out of the cinema, something that needs to be explored more and more after you watch it again, the proceedings at that time would become an experience, an experience that is very seldom felt in Bollywood may be due to fear of niche segment that such genre focuses on, a specific reason why certain audience have thrashed this badly. Honestly, I don’t remember any movie in the last two decades which affected me at this high level and left me overwhelmed and in awe of every artist involved in it.

No matter at what stage of your life you are, no matter what your are doing at present with your life, you can always change the END, you can fulfil your dreams, you can create your myth, your own story!

PS: The blogger is a music/movie analyst at www.kiagia.com

Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (Movie) - My View Point

Remember 'Hum Saath Saath Hain', that was Sooraj Barjatya 16 years back where he conquered hearts with basic human goodness instilled in a family melodrama quite convincingly, Prem Ratan Dhan Payo runs on the same line, add to it some English speaking characters with too many apples ( i Phone and i Pad) and Haldiram's. It’s a familiar tale that has gone on to become rusty and outdated and doesn’t look convincing in 2015, how did Vijay Singh survived the accident is still a mystery to me!

Brotherhood, forgiveness, family re-union, these are all familiar known territories that doesn't work anymore, that doesn't have the power to make one cry anymore, this is something that would have worked a decade ago and to make things worse the weak script is bombarded with some average compositions one after another where only Jalte Diye and Bachpan Kaha leaves an impact up to an extent.

It fails to evoke emotions for the Royal King and his family, it doesn’t have moments where you pray for a happy ending for the family, the dialogues are strictly below average, the humour is missing, the characters are never fleshed out adequately. The charisma and star power of Salman Khan is the only saviour where he carries the Bajrangi (Bajrangi Bhaijaan) charm forward; he is in terrific form indeed. 

Tamasha Music Review

There are thunderous expectations from the soundtrack of "Tamasha", after all when Director Imtiaz Ali collaborates with the maestro A.R.Rahman with some visionary stuff from lyricist Irshad Kamil; the musical world seems to be a magician's den where everything works in slow motion mode. Music has always been a vital part of Imtiaz Ali directorial ventures and no one in the industry justifies and picturises a composition like he does, case in point 'Main Kya Hoon' from 'Love Aaj Kal'  followed by 'Jo Bhi Main' from 'Rockstar'  to name a few. With 9 compositions including a remix and an instrumental, let’s dwell deep inside the imaginative world of these artists! 

'Ranbir Kapoor in Tamasha is someone who is enchanted by stories, has grown up hearing them and expresses himself by performing them'- Imtiaz Ali

"Matargashti" as the name suggests is craziness at its peak with some insane narrative lyrics by Irshad Kamil that defines the madness and throws light on the character of Ranbir Kapoor. Percussions dominates the proceedings here except the sweet little harmonica portion from 2:31 to 2:37. Mohit Chauhan is infectious as always and goes a pitch higher in both the anatara’s which gives a déjà-vu feeling of 'Sadda Haq' from 'Rockstar' (from 1:50 to 2:08 and then again from 2:43 to 3:00) albeit only for a short duration as one recollects that both compositions has nothing similar and are poles apart. The highlight of the song is the tribute to Dev Anand where the composition suddenly takes a retro u-turn with violins coming in and Mohit Chauhan efficiently switches gears, notice how elegantly the song shifts from the retro part to the 'tang tang dinga dang tang', quite brilliant stuff.

A feeling of pain expressed in a celebratory way with a Punjabi tadka or we can call it 'The Happy Sad Song'.."Heer Toh Badi Sad Hai" lands somewhere around the territory of 'Katiya Karun' from 'Rockstar' considering the Punjabi base where Mika Singh does well aptly supported by Nakash Aziz for the chorus and the 'Aaye Haaye Oye Hoye' part in between that gives it a Qawwali touch. The second interlude has some classic jugalbandi of Desi string arrangements that makes one tap their feet and applaud at the same time. Irshad Kamil's Hinglish verse depicts the sadness in a funny way "Loo (Toilet) mein jaana Mushkil Hai, Baji Padi Hai Band Heer Ki, Ab Iss Band Pe Naache Kaun, Ya Woh Utter Mad Hai, Heer Toh Badi Sad Hai''.

Sublime piano notes starts off "Agar Tum Saath Ho" which stands tall with Rahman's very own 'Aye Hairathe' from 'Guru' (2006). Alka Yagnik brings on the innocent effortless charm with her renditions sounding a bit like Lata Mangeshkar; one can sense that she is the perfect choice for this number considering the simplicity it demands. Arijit Singh joins in after 2 minutes and takes your breath away, the compositions flows like poetry, notice the extraordinary overlapping effect where his renditions goes at never heard before vocal level and an ultra low octave at the same time, what with the gorgeous tabla at 4:25. This is one of those piece of art from Rahman that is going to stuck in your heart and mind for long, by far my 'Song of 2015'!

'Music in the film has been used as a narrative to enhance the inherent drama of the situation without dialogue'- Imtiaz Ali.

The word 'drama' here is what the next song "Wat Wat Wat" is all about which takes some time to adjust to the unusual arrangements where one of Rahman's favourite instrument Shehnai takes centre stage throughout, especially during the long interludes, these portions somewhat took me back to 'The Dichotomy Of Fame' from 'Rockstar', just the Shehnai and nothing else. Sashwat Singh does most of the vocals in the Mukhda where Arijit Singh is in his elements with the anatara’s. The funny Bhojpuri lyrics with a crazy fusion of various rhythms give the composition a unique edge in terms of creativity and style.

Surprisingly we have one more version "Wat Wat Wat-Vengeance Mix" where the Punjabi element has been replaced with some cool techno-trance EDM stuff. If the original one was pure Desi this is pumped up western stuff with synth replacing the Shehnai. 

'We took six months to mix this song, when I asked myself, how do I take this song further? I knew the answer, it had to be sung by Sukhwinder Singh'. - A.R.Rahman

"Chale Kahani" is for the theatre act with several mythological stories interwoven around it, brace yourself for a grandiose visual treat. Flute starts off pleasantly with the energetic vocals of Sukhwinder Singh and then some exquisite semi classical orchestra. Haricharan and Haripriya joins in for a soft part later, this is one rare composition in Bollywood where so much is happening, it has so much to offer in these five minutes, as Imtiaz Ali said, this song is indeed an 'Achievement' in itself!

"Safarnama" is about a man's search for his love, Lucky Ali amazing vocals instantly connects and transports the listeners in a spiritual dreamy world where one can embark on a journey within. The long arrangements reaches a new high after the Mukhda with Mandolin strums and acoustic (read gorgeous) guitar chord progression and how can one forget the accordion, notice how it is used throughout the composition and the impact is even more captivating in between the phrases, for instance from 00:35 to 00:38 etc, take a bow Mr.Rahman!

Devotional Folk type alaaps creates confusion at the start of "Parade De La Bastille" but one minute into the song, the gear changes and there you go; lots of bagpipes, mandolins, violins, accordion, percussions and some 'Matargashti', which is justified as both of these songs are composed for the scenario when both the lead characters are in Corsica. This is one of those rare instrumental pieces that wins you over and finds a place in your playlist.

'Sometimes in trying to belong, you lose your edge, you become blunt and you forget who you are unless someone comes to remind you, someone who has seen you at that time. It’s not that simple because it takes the undoing of entire life's experience to get in touch with yourself and the wild energy.'- Imtiaz Ali

"Tu Koi Aur Hai" is undoubtedly the soul of the movie rendered evocatively by A.R.Rahman himself. It builds up the journey of 'self discovery' slowly with minimum orchestra, then goes a opera-ish way supported by Alma Ferovic and Arjun Chandy, ending on a hypnotic take on Safarnama with violins and chorus that evokes out a lot of emotions and leaves one speechless! A masterstroke to end the soundtrack!

To conclude, the soundtrack leaves the listeners spellbound, the sheer richness of the orchestra, the in-depth lyrics, and each and every composition. Tamasha may not be at par with previous golden soundtracks of A.R.Rahman that he has given in the past 2 decades but it’s by far the best effort put in by a musician and lyricist to justify what the director is trying to convey, to justify his philosophical thought process behind each composition, this is where we can say that music is the greatest form of art that exists, it’s like magic that needs the right stage and situation where the magicians can weave the magical web without any limitations. To give a rating for such art would be injustice to the arists involved. Period.

''All the world's a stage and all the men and women merely player"

-Shakespeare

PS: The witer is a music analyst @www.kiagia.com

Bhaag Johny Music Review

RATING  ★ ★ 1/2
One is not sure what to expect from the music of "Bhaag Johnny" where as many as four composers have been roped with the likes of Mithoon, Yo Yo Honey Singh, Arko Mukherjee and Devi Sri Prasad. Suddenly there is an anxiety level as these names are always associated with some good chartbuster tunes.

Devi Sir Prasad (DSP) who’s 'Dhinka Chika' from Ready is still a rage, recreates his own Telugu Hit for "Daddy Mummy” with the lyrics being lifted from the Tamil Version. MM Mansi vocals are energetic and remind of Mamta Sharma at places due to the heavy texture, DSP aptly supports her with the rap portions in between, though what makes this number catchy and foot tapping is the pulsating techno arrangements that stays with the listeners for long. Overall this one may enjoy a short stint amongst the party lovers.

Arko Mukherjee last ost 'Jism 2' is one of my favourites, the song 'Abhi Abhi' has the power to melt hearts even after three years, now when he re-creates Sajid-Wajid's and Sonu Nigam's 'Deewana' iconic number "Iss Qadar Pyar Hai", one expects something gorgeous and innovative. The melody and hook line is kept the same with a welcome change in the lyrics by Faaiz Anwar, Ankit Tiwari croons this one with all heart albeit the auto tuned effect which somewhat limits the vocal talent and emotional connect, also it ends absurdly and quickly after the second Antara. A re-hash version that could have touched new heights only results as a good number and nothing extraordinary.

Yo Yo Honey Singh's "Aankhon Aankhon" suffers from the same old pulsating music (minus the rap) throughout which lands in the same old familiar territory that we have heard in the past so many times, 'Angreji Beat' (Cocktail) to be very specific. The hindi-punjabi lyrics though are quite catchy and the hook line becomes addictive after a while, luckily the song doesn't go ear-defying over the top in the arrangements and maintains a decent rhythm. Although the composition lacks innovation and offers nothing fresh but who cares this is going to be loved by Honey Singh fan club and is to be played in discotheque's for some time to come.

Remember the magical 'Maula Mera Maula' from 'Anwar' that swept the listeners off their feet..that was Mithoon about a decade ago, now most of his compositions are somewhere weaved around his chartbuster 'Phir Mohabbat' from 'Murder 2' or carry the same 'safe zone' template and refrain from innovative imagination..That’s where "Kinna Sona" wins you over with the same magical charm. Sunil Kamath textured vocals carries the Sufi-pop flavour brilliantly and that too with a classical touch, watch out for his high notes which reminds of the legendary Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Sahab. The lyrics by Amitabh Verma oozes love and emotions with every word, his work flows like a soothing poetry alongside the fabulous tabla beats and mesmerize the listeners, make no mistake, this one has is here to stay and has in it to enjoy a long shelf life. Keep this one on loop and enjoy the peaceful romantic ambience that it creates!

Mithoon brings the immensely talented Rahul Vaidya for the last track "Meri Zindagi" and to much surprise he seems to put in a lot of effort in his renditions which makes him sound unusual. This one is a sad situational number that misses the chord on the emotional level and ends the soundtrack on an average note.

All in All, Bhaag Johnny has some decent numbers with a magnificent 'Kinna Sona' that is a delight for the music lovers. Overall: Enjoyable!

The writer is a Music Critic @ www.kiagia.com, find the edited version here

Phantom Music Review

RATING  ★ ★ ★ 1/2

Director Kabir Khan's Bajrangi Bhaijaan shattered many records and won accolades and hearts everywhere, Pritam composed some nice situational numbers which had grown post movie release, "Phantom" on the other hand is a thriller where the focus shifts to background music rather than the soundtrack, as a result he offers six tracks with 3 originals and 3 reprise versions, let’s check them out!

"Afghan Jalebi (Ya Baba)" is one of those massy numbers that catches attention instantly, a folksy tune with an Arabic touch add to that some pulsating music crafted around some crazy insane writing by Amitabh Bhattacharya, result: Chartbuster! The arrangements and the overall fun element is where one gets a sense of déjàvu and lands in a territory where Pritam's very own 'Saree Ke Fall Sa' (R..Rajkumar) meets 'Pungi' (Agent Vinod). Debutant Syed Asrar Shah energy is impressive; the chorus part 'Khawaja Ji Ke Paas Teri' is certainly the highlight of the composition. The other version "Afghan Jalebi (Film Version)" is the same as the original one and one can't find any slightest of difference between both of them, wonder why it has been credited to another singer Akhtar Channal Zahri.

Akhtar Channal Zahri sings the "Afghan Jalebi (Dumbek Version)" and certainly this one is the best of all the four versions. Akhtar's renditions are raw, and are more inclined towards the Sufi genre, notice the elegant dictions when he sings 'Afghan Jelabi..Mashooq Ferabi' (the 'e' here is intentional, hear it to know why). The use of Dumbek and tabla makes this version completely different and yes the use of string instruments in between is not to be missed. Keep this one on Repeat Mode! 

And then we have Pritam's favourite Nakash Aziz (Saree Ke Fall Sa) for "Ya Baba (Fitna Farebi)" which goes same as the original with some less energetic albeit more filmy renditions by Nakash except for the last one minute where we some welcome change in the lyrics but nothing much special here from Pritam this time.

"Saware" is a soothing melodious number which rides smoothly on Arijit Singh vocals. The whole composition has a story flowing with it where the second paragraph is very well written by Amitabh Bhattacharya, the chorus part has a trance feeling to it and its where Kabir Khan makes his presence felt, expect this one to be heard at various junctures in the movie. This is one song that should grow immensely post movie release.

"Nachda" is the surprise element of the soundtrack where Shahid Mallya takes centre stage with his intense renditions beautifully weaved around some sensational lyrics by Kausar Munir which has a lot of depth and meaning to it, giving the word 'Nachda' an altogether different meaning..Superb. As for the arrangements, we get to hear some electric guitar riffs are the start and then the string instruments takes hold of the proceedings and the overall result is an eccentric amalgamation of rock flavour and Arabic elements. Both the interludes are heavily arranged and its one of those compositions where everything from the lyrics to the vocals to the arrangements are top notch. Pritam at his very best!

"Phantom" is one of those soundtracks from Pritam where one was not sure what's in store for them and that's where the soundtrack strikes gold. Kabir Khan has a knack of using the songs beautifully alongside the narrative, take for instance 'Zindagi' and 'Tu Jo Mila' in 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' recently. 'Nachda' and 'Saware' to grow post movie release where 'Afghan Jalebi' satiates the masses where Dumbek Version stands out among the four!

Drishyam- My View Point!

Bollywood is on a roll, first Bajrangi Bhaijaan and now Drishyam, which discovers the forte of intelligent cinema that is long lost in the league of Item Numbers and masala pot boilers. What makes this movie more interesting is the plot and screenplay, one knows little about the story and its the sheer joy of discovering what next? Now what?

The character build up of Ajay Devgan is very strong, a common man who loves watching movies on his small television in his office every night, who eats at an ordinary restaurant and couldnt clear his fourth class in school. It is this very modesty that makes one connect with him instantly and relate with the proceedings. When a situation arrives due to an unfortunate circumstance then we see how a common man can go to any extent to save his family drawing a thin line between wrong and right. We get a sense of his practical knowledge that he has gained from watching cinema at the very start and his entire strategy is plotted around ideas he has gathered from the movies.

Its an experience where one feels sympathetic for both the main characters- Ajay Devgan and the terrific Tabu. The movie keeps one hooked at the edge of their seats with the ongoing tension and makes one applaud for the intelligentsia that Ajay Devgan unfolds.

It was a great feeling when the audience applauded the terrific climax scene, the suspense element, which makes a point that India Cinema and viewers are not hungry of senseless Item number and Rom-Com's. At a duration of 2 hours and 43 minutes, it keeps you on your toes and thinking.

A masterpiece that is not be missed! 

Bajrangi Bhaijaan - My view Point

How often in Bollywood we come across a movie that carries an emotional vibe throughout and brings tears every now and then! Bajrangi Bhaijaan is not over the top usual SALMAN EID SPECIAL he has been known for years, it’s rather very simple and has its heart at the right place. The character build up of Pawan/Salman is commendable as an innocent soft/pure hearted person and it’s that strong build up of his character that makes the upcoming proceeding real and convincing.

Seven year old Debutant Harshaali Malhotra melts your heart with her innocent smile and one can feel her pain through her expressive eyes. The movie is all about Humanity, it’s about being a good human being keeping aside all religions/nationality and how beautifully it depicts that at each point in life we meet such people who are ready to offer help and restore people's faith in Humanity.

Another highlight is the character played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui, another innocent good for nothing reporter who is kind hearted and helps the girl without a second thought, it also shows the importance of media and social network in today's era if used in a right thoughtful way. Nawazuddin is a natural artist and fits into every character in an effortless way that is spectacular, notice how innocently he asks about Mahabharata..'Mahabharata...Picture Hai?' then a 10 second pause and then 'Nayi Picture Hai'? 

My favourite moment was in the climax when Salman while crossing the border enacts like Shahida/Munni by nodding his head and waving his one hand on seeing Kareena on the other side while she screams his name, a very strong impactful scene which portrays the impact the little girl had on him, the kind of strong bond that they shared, the kind of high emotional relationship they shared, that one small gesture says it all..WoW!

Last time I was so emotionally involved and moved by a movie throughout was Taare Zameen Par. Bajrangi Bhaijaan is by far the best Salman Khan movie in recent years; it has the power to squeeze a lump out of your throat and not only tears when it comes to the climax. 

Life is all about Humanity; it’s all about helping others...Lesson learnt!

Hamari Adhuri Kahani Music Review

RATING  ★ ★ ★ ★
Expectations..Expectations and more Expectations..This is how one looks forward to the music of "Hamari Adhuri Kahaani" and why not, after all its a Mohit Suri venture who brings out the best from the stable of musicians like Mithoon, Ankit Tiwari and Jeet Gannguli to name a few, its him who made Arijit Singh and Ankit Tiwari a household name with 'Aashiqui 2' and 'Ek Villain' , with whom one associates some soulful, excruciating music since the Director inception in Bollywood with 'Zeher' in 2005, and since then he had swayed and stormed the music lovers with some chartbuster soundtracks regardless of how his movies fared on the box office. All said, the stakes are very high where Jeet Gannguli, Mithoon and Ami Mishra are at the helm of affairs, with 4 originals and 2 reprise versions, let’s dwell inside the dream world of these artists!

"Music is the soul of the movie, the songs are an integral part and I don't think there is a better way to describe the film than the title song"

-Mohit Suri.

  

Jeet Gannguli starts of the proceedings with the title track "Hamari Adhuri Kahaani” with soothing piano and acoustic guitar notes in tandem with a haunting violin (played by Suresh Valvani) and some beautifully arranged interludes, the flute piece at the end deserves a special mention. THE Arijit Singh instils his soul in the composition and makes one feel the pain where Rashmi Singh and Virag Mishra brings forth some agonising work with the pen. The composition with duration of 6:38 never has a dull moment and the best part comes in form of the high pitched renditions and the arrangements. It forms the crux of the films narrative and should be heard at several crucial junctures in the movie. It is one of those compositions that will grow immensely post the movie release. Surprisingly Jeet Gannguli comes behind the mike for "Hamari Adhuri Kahani (Encore)" when everyone was cheering for Mohammad Irfan. This one is no different from the original one by Arijit from the music to the lyrics to the arrangements, everything remains the same. Jeet does a good job as a singer with his soft and easy on ears vocals but to be honest his voice falters and sounds a bit odd in the high pitched notes, may be some other established singer would have evoked more emotions out of this intense composition.

Mithoon's "Humnava" lands in the familiar territory of his previous compositions with his trademark unplugged style and can challenge the composers very own 'Banjaara' (Ek Villain) being the overall situational feel of this one quite similar to it. The composition flows like a soothing poetry with the textured vocals of Papon beautifully interwoven around Sayeed Quadri deep rooted lyrics that strikes a chord instantly. A special mention to the singer Papon who has a classical touch in his renditions (consider the alaap portions here in the first interlude) and at the same time has a fresh and youthful charm which makes me wonder why he is not used often in Bollywood since he made his debut with 'Jiyein Kyu' (Dum Maaro Dum-2011) followed by the super gorgeous 'Kyon' (Barfi!) and more recently the sublime 'Moh Moh Ke Dhaage' (Dum Laga Ke Haisha) to name a few. Neverthless, it’s the highlight of the soundtrack and is here to rule the charts for months to come keep this one on loop and feel the love!

'You meet someone special, fall in love and before you know it, they become your world'. Lyricist Kunaal Vermaa describes this beautiful feeling of being in love with "Hasi" (use of the word 'Hasi' works pretty well) and the end result is intoxicating. Composed and sung by debutant Ami Mishra, this melodious outing has a soft-rock vibe (very similar to Pakistani rock bands) attached to it courtesy the drum beats and the extended climax which offers electric guitar riffs for the last one minute. Close to four minutes, the song keeps one wanting for more and while one waits to see it rise in popularity in days to come, one can be sure that this is one song that has in it to enjoy a long shelf life.

An unplugged reprise version "Hasi (Female)" spellbound the listeners where Shreya Ghoshal's sugar coated renditions oozes love and romance with each and every word and transports the listeners in a dream world of pure love. The best thing about this version is the complete change of lyrics from the original one which is always a welcome change, also one can’t resist the magical flute part in the only interlude which leaves the listener in trance and stand still mode..Speechless! 

"Ye Kaisi Jagah" composed by Jeet Gannguli is a situational composition that has a nice simple melody flowing with it. Rashmi Singh and Virag Mishra bring forth the emotions and feelings of a married woman who has fallen for someone else and is in a state of dilemma; certainly the lyrics are the highlight of this composition. Debutant Deepali Sathe creates a soothing ambience with her renditions and Jeet Gannguli can be heard for some great classical alaap portions in between that generate a 'wow' factor. A good number that would look great alongside the narration.

To sum up, "Hamari Adhuri Kahani" is by far the best soundtrack of 2015 that portrays intense love and touches the soul. Each song has a story flowing with it and is an integral part of the film's narrative. Although this one is not at par with 'Ek Villain' and 'Aashiqui 2' but with almost a month for the movie to hit the big screen, one can be sure that the compositions will be loved by the masses especially those who like their music to be soft, simple and full of romance. Whilst the title track will become a rage post the movie release, 'Humnava' and 'Hasi' will catch instant attention.

The writer is a music critic at www.kiagia.com

Dil Dhadakne Do Music Review

RATING ★ ★ ★ 1/2

Zoya Akhtar stormed bollywood with Zindagi Na Milegi Dubara (2011) after her critically acclaimed Luck By Chance back in 2007. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy last work Kill Dill produced some good numbers but failed to impress the listeners. Dil Dhadakne Do boasts of ensemble cast of Ranveer Singh, Priyanka Chopra, Anushka Sharma, Anil Kapoor and Shefali Shah which alone sky shoots the expectations of the listeners. The soundtrack promises to take one on a sparkling entertaining ride that caters to the youth, with five originals and Javed Akhtar at the helm of lyricist, stakes are very high from all perspectives!

The title track "Dil Dhadakne Do” is something which one doesn’t associates with the musical team of SEL. The pulsating synth rock tune with some gorgeous guitar riffs works well where Priyanka Chopra adds a certain seductive element with her voice. Farhan Akhtar does well but his voice sounds a bit strange/odd in the high notes. The lyrics are carefree and suit the situation well, the video is well shot and while Anil Kapoor dances to the voice of Farhan Akhtar, one wonders if different singers should have been chosen for each different character! Neverthless, the composition will grow with time and starts off the soundtrack on a good note.

Some vibrant bass guitar riffs sets the mood for a classic rock number.."Pehli Baar" is a trademark S-E-L stuff and straightaway the arrangement takes you to 'Sooraj Ki Baahon Mein' from 'ZNMD'. The extended Mukhda and the interludes with some zingy electric guitar riffs unleashes a magical aura where Siddharth Mahadevan does really well especially for the high pitched vociferous renditions in the hook line and Sukriti Kakkar evokes the right emotions with her soothing stylish vocals. The song has a story flowing with it and is more than just a romantic number which tells you to follow your heart (DIL). Keep this one on Repeat mode..Rocking!

Shankar Ehsaan Loy are in their elements with "Gallan Goodiyan", an addictive Desi celebration number with a Punjabi flavour that is insanely catchy, there is so much happening for the whole five minutes, notice the Punjabi arrangements in the second interlude from 2:32 to 3:25..zestful. Sukhwinder Singh is at his usual best, Yashita Sharma does well, Manish Kumar Tipu does the funny 'Hello Hello' part and makes one smile, Shankar Mahadevan and Farhan Akhtar also joins in with their short parts. It’s a fun dance number that is going to be a rage in coming days.

"Girls Like To Swing", picturised on Anushka Sharma, seems to come straight out of Amit Trivedi stable, more precisely his recent jazzy Bombay Velvett. The trumpet and drums at the very onset makes one brace for a outrageous jazzy number where Sunidhi Chauhan carves magic with her dazzling renditions backed up stylishly by the chorus and some lively lyrics by Javed Akhtar. The composition is high on arrangements and despite being a Jazz forte, this one caters to the masses and makes up for a high spirited foot tapping number that is here to rule the charts. One word: Splendiferous..Go Swing with S-E-L this season.

The only slow situational number in the soundtrack "Phir Bhi Yeh Zindagi" has as many as five singers and the hook line has a hangover of S-E-L previous compositions. Divya Kumar starts off well and excels with his raw voice joined by 'Uff Teri Adaa' (Karthik Calling Karthik) girl Alyssa Mendonsa alongside Sapna Pathak, Farhan Akhtar and Vishal Dadlani. The lyrics are ordinary and could have been more inspiring given the genre the the song belongs to, neverthless the soft-rock number is a pre climax material that will take some to settle down and would grow post the movie release.

Overall, Dil Dhadakne Do is an impressive youthful soundtrack that is full of energetic dance numbers which are high on arrangements and fun to watch. Pehli Baar and Gallan Goodiyan are chartbusters in the making and will enjoy few weeks in the top 10 segment. Worth your time and money, grab this one right now!