Don 2 : Music Review

Big disappointment. These two words explains it all. When I saw Milliblog giving it a NW1W, I was shocked that it was for an SEL album, but while playing the songs, I realised Karthik was right. The tracks seriously has a hangover of title track from earlier film. 

Aa raha hoon palat ke - a dialogue piece has nothin to comment about. Next Zaraa dil ko thaam lo - starts as an Enrique number, with a 'longer than normal' prelude lines, the song got me confused. Vishal's voice tweaked to sound like Shankar's, the song tries hard but falls flat. That mysterious-menacing charm of previous Don, is missing here.  Usha Uthup's Hai yeh Maya -a dark mysterious situational track, also fails to catch attention. Finally, in Dushman Mera, we get to hear Shankar, with Sunitha Sarathy. Using all the leftover pieces from Don1, even the epic interlude of Main hoon don [remember, when PC enters the floor wearing red gown !] - is wasted by putting up lyrics onto it. 

The King is back - is more of an instrumental piece. Made me miss pulsating tracks by Midival Punditz in Don. And if all this is not enough, title track is re-re-mixed and sung by KK in Mujhko Pehchan lo. Sigh.. missing Shaan here..... Hai Yeh Maya repeats as remix. And again, Mujhko Pehchanlo comes as yet another Remix - with irritating loop of lines 'Don ko pakdna mushkil hi nahi.....'. The Don Waltz is a little relief as we get to hear something else then just dance floor tracks - not so special stuff though. 

I seriously hope the tracks are well used in the [expected to be as short as 100 mins long] movie. As a standalone album, it fails. Why oh SEL ? Why?  Hope this too shall pass. 

Tags : Don 2 songs, review, Farhan Akhtar, Shankar Ehsan Loy, Ehsaan, Shah Rukh Khan, Lara Dutta, Kunal Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Hrithik Roshan, Guest, Special appearance, Scene, Don, sequel

We Are Family : Movie Review

Hamesha.. forever. The song, is stuck in my head that is heavy right now after such a weepy climax. And its been a long, really long time since I wept like this watching a movie. And I love it when a movie can make me cry like this. Sidharth Malhotra's 'We Are Family' is a movie-that strengthen the belief in 'Bollywood' formula. The melodrama that ruled 70s movies. No matter it is based on Stepmom [and I haven't seen that one], but the Indian formulation of videsi story is done so perfectly, that except setup, nowhere it looks non-Indian.

We Are Family is story of troubled relationships, which generally - is not my most fav genre. But its the treatment of the movie, that makes it worth watch.

Housefull : Music Review

When Shankar-Ehsan-Loy composes soundtrack for a comedy flick, results has not been so exciting. Take Ek aur Ek Gyaraah or most recent ShortKut for example. So with that fear I started listening this album.

Starting with the first promo song, Oh Girl You're Mine - a new voice Tarun Sagar along with Alyssa & Loy. Yes, Alyssa who sang fantastic Uff Teri Ada-KCK. The leisurely paced song holds nothing special that it can be called a SEL product. Being in same league, Papa Jag Jayega holds same beats. Neeraj Sridhar [Akki movie, you know] alongwith Ritu Pathak & Alyssa sings this song. Which is fun because of its lyrics.

A shocker comes up next in form of remixed re-created 'Apni toh Jaise taise' the legendary Bachchan song. Aapka kya hoga [dhanno] will surely be riot on screen. Mika Singh, with Sunidhi and [hold it].. Sajid Khan features in the song.

Then comes my favorite track. Shabbir Kumar [yes, the Shabbir Kumar] croons I don't know what to do with Sunidhi is fun fun fun track. Can't wait what's there up on screen. Concluding the album, Vivenne Pocha & Amitabh Bhattacharya comes with Loser. A smooth jazzy feel describing 'loserness' of the lead character. A passable track.

See, here too SEL did not give some mind blowing tracks like he used to create for Excel Entertainment :) . But for a comedy flick, that need not be necessary. Lets see how it fares on screen.

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Karthik Calling Karthik : Movie Review

Don't read, if you want to watch the movie.

Farhan has his own audience. He has his own style, and again he has his 'own' movie. Let me warn first, this is no a Bolly flick, if you are looking for. Karthik Calling Karthik is a really well made Psychological Thriller, which may find only a few takers. Also a rare genre in Bollywood. But Its a really nice effort to showcase how bad or good someone's life can go by his own mind.

From first few minutes only, we know who the caller Karthik is. But film takes a really interesting turn where it left us thinking who, when and how. And between those thrilling moments, Director Vijay Lalwani has brilliantly put touchy moments, to show pain of the protagonist. Sincere film making I would say. As the end approaches, we too, can feel what Karthik is going through. Without being loud, the film left us thinking about such persons.

Coming back to Farhan Akhtar, he is flawless in the movie. What is most enjoyable in his performance, is his witty one liners, and how he delivers them. Its always a treat to watch. On the other hand, Deepika too does not disappoint. In a role where she doesn't need to act much, only need to look good, she's always great. Shefali Chhaya in her special appearance, does nice job.

The treatment of the movie is absolutely fantastic. The urban feel, or say, Hollywood kinda look of movie works wonders. Such a small starcast and such a tight editing works wonders here. Just 2.15 hours, KCK is worth a watch if you are really 'into' such cinema.

And oh, last but not the least, how can you not catch SEL's fabulous score on big screen???

My Rating : 3.5 / 5

My Name Is Khan : Sigh.....

Let me clarify this first. I 'love' K.jO's movies [KKHH,K3G,KHNH-not KANK plz]. I like SRK in his sincere efforts. I love the pair - SRK+Kajol. To me they are the 'first couple' of the industry. The movie got me so excited. And given lovely soundtrack by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, I was dying to see it. Oh..and there's Kajol!! So, yes, I expected it to be as awesome as K.Jo products are. But..all of that fell flat. Disappointed I am, a lot. I was feared about this. By the first promo, I sighed how the movies based on 9/11 are getting churned out. Hoping this would be last in this genre. It will not get any better if we still make the movies like this.

Good, Goood :
Why twice? That's like SRK's speech pattern in the movie. And I actually Liked it. Loved the performances of all major characters. SRK is lovable as person suffering from syndrom. For the first time you can't see SRK in a K.Jo movie. Here he is Rizwan Khan-the character. Perhaps after Swades' Mohan Bhargava, only here that SRK is into the skin of character. The goofiness in his act can make anyone fall in love with him, why alone Kajol? Loved Lovvved Kajol ofcourse. Hardly there are any chances of her going wrong. [warning!! read next para]. In the first half, Zarina Wahab made it so real, Absolutely delightful performance as mother of Khan. Also a surprise was Sonya Jehan, who did perform her part with finesse. Even little Tanay Chheda was joy to watch. Another joie de vivre of the movie is its lavish scale. Its shot superbly. San Francisco looks dew fresh. And 'wallah...' add gorgeous Kajol to this cinematography - Treat for eyes for sure. Oh, and music complements her definitely. All songs are nicely picturised. With only one glitch. [next para]. Ofcourse, There are moments so true that make you cry. But..



Bad...Baaaad :
[with some light spoilers]

Jimmy Shergill. In a typecast role. Actually the whole movie runs upon typecast formula. Which a lot of movies has shown in past 3 years. And I think everyone has had enough share of Preaching & teachings. When the movie starts with a typical Airport Security Check, you know what's there in store for you. And if that alone is not enough, you have an Islamic extremist giving lecture to his followers, a aboslutely waste side-plot. Though SRK saves the scene later. The master of candy-floss entertainment, K.Jo burns his hand in this rather more serious subject, and looks like his hands fell short. He tries to pack in each and every punch and loses it there. Can you imagine Kajol sounding screechy? Yes, in a most crucial scene, Kajol [I repeat, KAJOL] sounds over the top. The whole sequence looks so silly at that time. And voila! the movie 'runs' on that theme later. Like a fairytale, the storyline is hard to imagine in the real world. Which is not expectable in a movie based on reality.

By reality, another thing i would like to point out. How on earth, one can not reach to a flooded town in USA, the U.S. of A.??!! Even in India, we reach them by air or by military boats. So why couldn't US' troops? or even the NGOs? The disaster scenes of Wilhemina amused me. Also whole set of flooded town reminded me of Fallen Isengard [Lord Of the Rings]. [Well, I told you, fairytale]. And the least I had expected-the duplicates of not one but Two Presidents !!! Why? That looked abosolutely B-Grade'ish'. Bothe of the sequences could have done far better if they could use some intelligent camera angles. Like-showing expressions of people while keeping camera behind 'the president'. when the whole world knows whom you are going to 'replicate' someone as President, there isn't need to show his face!! And thoses sequences stretches the movie a lot. Making me lose interest in it. And oh, when it was most needed, the song 'Rang De' doesn't show up at all. :(
On a personal note, I am disappointed by the fact that SRKajol don't look into each others' eyes. Man, How on earth can you let go off such amazing chemistry? I know that the story demands so, but still, the 'charm' of the two together, is impeccable and can not be let go off. Sigh...how I wish K.Jo to make another movie with sizzling chemistry of the best couple on screen, ever. Give me SRK widening his hands, waving them to Kajol-wearing Saaree and running towards him - I would die for that.

My Rating : 2.5 / 5

Noor-E-Khuda : My Name Is Khan - Lyrics and Thoughts

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Noor E Khuda ...

When piercing voice of Shankar Mahadevan, heard in first promo of My Name is Khan - I was sure that this is going to be one hell of a soundtrack. Given my increasing inclination for Sufi, I would say this is surely a treat for me. And as promised - Shankar Ehsan Loy once again delivers a superb soundtrack to start year 2010 in a musical way.

Though right now I am going through other songs as well, I can't resist myself to put up words for 'THE' song - Noor-E-Khuda. Sung by Shankar Mahadevan, Adnan Sami and Shreya Ghoshal. A song which will surely bring tears [atleast to me] in this sure shot tear jerker movie of Karan Johar. Though lyrics of Niranjan Iyengar left me hungry for more deep words, cause here just for rhyming sound I think he has taken easy picks. Like Zard-Sard and more. But the way song is composed, left me speechless. The 'antara' of Shreya Ghoshal would be 'must watch' in the movie. And as the song concludes, Shankar Mahadevan in his own style, leaves his mark. And for such song, choice of Adnan Sami is a bit surprising. But he does his part perfectly.

Here are the lyrics.

Noor E Khuda....

Ajnabi mod hai,
Khauf har aur hai,
Har nazar pe dhuan chha gaya
Pal bhar mein jaane kya kho gaya

Aasman zard hai
Aahein bhi sard hai,
Tan se saaya juda ho gaya
Pal bhar mein jaane kya kho gaya

Saans ruk si gayi
Jism chhil sa gaya
Toote khwabon ke manzar pe
Tera jahan chal diya

Noor E Khuda Noor E Khuda
tu kahan chhupa hai humein yeh bata
Noor E Khuda Noor E Khuda
yun naa humse nazarein phira.
Noor E Khuda ..

Nazar-e-karam farma hi de
Deen-o-dharam ko jaga hi de
Jalti hui tanhaiyaan
Roothi hui parchhaiyaan
Kaisi udi yeh hawa
Chhaya yeh kaisa sama
Ruh jam si gai
Waqt tham sa gaya

Toote khwabon ke manzar pe
Tera jahan chal diya

Noor E Khuda Noor E Khuda
Tu kahan chhupa hai humein yeh bata
Noor E Khuda Noor E Khuda
Yun naa humse nazarein firaa.
Noor E Khuda ..

Ujhde se lamhon ko aas teri,
Zakhmi dilon ko hai pyaas teri
Har dhadkan ko talaash teri,
Tera milta nahi hai pata,

Khaali aankhein khud se sawaal karein,
Aman ki cheekh behaal karein,
Behta lahoo fariyaad karein,
Tera mit ta chala hai nishaan,

ruh jam si gai
waqt tham sa gaya

Toote khwabon ke manzar pe
Tera jahan chal diya

Noor E Khuda Noor E Khuda
tu kahan chhupa hai humein yeh bata
Noor E Khuda Noor E Khuda
yun naa humse nazarein firaa.
Noor E Khuda ..

Noor E Khuda Noor E Khuda
aaj kal tu kahan hai yeh bataa

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Favorite Train Songs

Since long time, Trains have played a great part in Movies. Be it from Hollywood or from Bollywood. From the fantastic action in Sholay, Roop Ki Rani Choron Ka Raja and recent Dhoom2, Rang De Basanti and Blue. Emotional at its best like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. Dark like Devdas. To, absolutely fantastic songs since B/W era. Also, some movies which are totally based on Trains like The Burning Train and partially based like Jab We Met. and Kaminey. Trains have lured our film makers from time to time. So with that, here are some of my favorite Train songs. For which again, I would like to get more suggestions / additions from you all. [click on songs to go to Youtube]

7. Paper Planes : Slumdog Millionaire - Well, this is not actually a train song. An independent track by MIA, is used in such a way in the movie that we just can't help but imagine about the movie while playing it. Fantastic journey of the two kids is shown-from Mumbai via Rajasthan to Agra. Living their life in and around the train.

6. Chhaiyya Chhaiyya : Dil Se - You must be wondering why this song is at no.6? Well, its all because of the over exposure. Still, each and every 'so called' music channel shows this song without fail. So that made me annoyed. Besides that, what a great idea by Farah Khan, to make people dance on roof of Train. Beats of Rahman makes us feel the thump of train. And can't help but visualize Malaika Arora Khan.

5. Mere Sapno Ki Rani : Aradhana - How on earth one can forget this song while talking about trains? The one and only 'train' beauty - Sharmila Tagore - looking through the window !! S.D.Burman has made such a brilliant opening music for the track with Whistles of the coal Engine. [Toy Train of Darjeeling] Aah, talk about immortality. Kaka Rajesh Khanna was in full swing with Kishor da's vocals.

4. Hoga Tumse Pyara Kaun : Zamaane Ko Dikhana Hai - Long before Dil se..., there was a couple who boarded roof of train to sing a song.[okay, most of the scenes where special effects though] Beautiful Padmini Kolhapure was sad, and cutie Rishi Kapoor trying to cheer her up. What a fantastic video. Toy Train of Darjeeling [again] looked wonderful. And Shailendra Singh's voice suited perfectly for R D Burman's creation.

3. Dhadak Dhadak : Bunty Aur Babli - The song itself says the beats of Train. Dhadak Dhadak. Also the fantastic words by Gulzar makes this Shankar-Ehsan-Loy composition a gem. So energetic the sound of music is, that makes you feel that you are in a train. Though the song talked much about the ambitious youth, Train is used as a backdrop, a medium to catch the running success.

2. Tu Kaun Hai : Bhopal Express - Originally featured in Lucky Ali's album Aks. Well, this is a very odd choice. The movie is not a mainstream one, nor the song is made exclusively for it. But again, the overall feel of the song is such perfect for it. With sounds of railway tracks, steam engine. The chimes and darkness of death of Bhopal Tragedy. Everything makes it such a haunting track.

1. Yeh Hawayein [Kasato Mazaa] : Parineeta - Oh So Cute kids singing 'Kasto mazaa'. And then Sonu and Shreya Ghoshal engages in pure divine tune of Shantanu Moitra. Heaven.....Worth menion is Swanand Kirkire's beautiful words. Interesting thing is , this is the same train where once Saif's mom Sharmila did travelled in the song Mere Sapno Ki raani.... Here its Gorgeous Vidya Balan who's giving her tough competition. Composition with whistles and sound of steam engine makes it a classic.

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Update : Reader's choices :

Pal Do Pal Ka Saath Humara : The Burning Train - Added by Sujoy.
Hum Dono Do Premi : Ajnabee [1974] - Added by Anonymous
Gaadi Bula Rahi hai : Dost - Added by Anonymous
Jiya O Jiya Kuch Bol do : Jab Pyar Kisi Se Hota Hai - Added by Khushi

..and Added by BollywoodDeewana
Teri Hai Zameen : The Burning Train
Chuk chuk Chakka Bombay se Baroda : Rafoo Chakkar
Badal gaye : Baharein phir bhi aayengi
Rukh se zara naqab : Mere Huzoor

London Dreams : Music Review and BLUE Soundtrack Giveaway

Aditi Sharma at saavn.com was so kind enough to giveaway offiicial download code for soundtrack of BLUE [after reading theBollywoodFan's post] . And here, on my blog she is giving away the same on behalf of Saavn.com, 10 copies of whole album and 10 copies of Kylie's single 'Chiggy Wiggy' for absolutely free. Mind it!! This is THE official downloads. The Original one, not pirated.

You just need to send an e-mail to bluemusic @ saavn . com, and tell them you read about this giveaway at darshit's blog. Also add a link to this post . The first 10 e-mails received will entitle senders to the complete album, the next 10, will be given single track 'chiggy wiggy'.

Please note I am not connected with Saavn.com. This is purely promotional activity brought to you by Saavn.com. Please to the Saavn Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

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LONDON DREAMS :
It took so much time to grow on me. Seriously. It has never happend to me for Shankar-Ehsan-Loy 's compositions. Though mad mad Mann ko Ati Bhavey became my favorite since the first promo. Other songs made me re-listen to it before I could believe that these are 'actually' SEL compositions. :) Some days back, Barson Yaaron was stuck in mind with its 'Hanuman Chalisa' bit. I just can't believe this is sung by Roop Kumar Rathod, whom we've only heard in Ghazals. Also the bit '...duniya teri mehmaan hai' is just so addictive.

Next addiction is Tapkey Masti - with fabulous lyrics by Prasoon Joshi, the track is so fun. And the current line stuck with me is 'Aa zamaane aa....Aazmaane aa...' from Khaanabadosh. A sound similar to RDB's Paathshala, still the track stands on its own. While Yaari Bina reminds me of 'yaari hai imaan' - I would love to see how it shapes up on screen. Jashn hai jeet ka has really good vocals by Abhijeet Ghoshal. And Shola Shola reminds of 'disco' beats.

As SEL are giving so much inspirational tracks throughout this year, here comes another Khwab Jo this time around with Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. Shankar gets me goosebumps with his trademark classical raagas. I just can't wait to see this one on screen. Just because of last two minutes of the track. It sounds really awesome.

I was expecting something identical with Rock On soundtrack. Cause the storyline seems similar. But for this one, the desi fusion has worked quite in fun way. Making it enjoyable.

My Rating : 4 / 5 stars
My Picks : Khwab Jo, Mann Ko Ati Bhavey, Khanabadosh, Tapkey Masti, Barson Yaaron [oh, almost all :P]

Wake Up Sid : Movie Review

Lakshya meets Taare Zameen Par meets Rock On meets Luck By Chance. Add some more freshness in terms of simple screenplay and dialogues and fantastic visuals - that's Wake Up Sid!! And the former sentence is not criticism but actually a complement. Cause all the movies are so great and is treating little bit similar subject that comparisons will definitely be there. But still, the movie stands on it own.

Its a story about Siddharth Mehra a spoilt brat living without any inhibitions. He gets to learn his lessons when he fails in life for the first time. And as all know, failure is a key to success [yup, the line is overused, but...] Konkona plays Aisha a girl who wants to be independent, on her own, and that's why she has come to Mumbai. I think this role looks a bit like extension to her role in Luck By Chance. Many sequences do remind me of that. But all is forgiven though. Cause it is not intended.

Movie deals with the fine line area of getting matured suddenly after fun years of college. It is hard for many people. Including me. I and most of us have that Sid inside them, which never goes out. 'Sid' tells them to do whatever they 'want' to do in life. But the fact is, that most of us end up doing the regular stuff cause its 'life' that doesnt allow us to do so. Also in other case shown here, some spoilt brats are fed with silver spoons that they cant see harsh realities, making them hiding from it. I don't care attitude developes there. Ranbir shows this mixed bag dillema quite well. I liked his earler both movies too, not a big fan of him but yes, he does act well. He is so sweet as Sid. Who is outspoken, tells whatever he feels.

Though Konkona is playing a little similar role to LBC, she is really good. I know this is a regular complement for her. Cause she is so consistent. Please give her all awards yaar, cause this year she has been so fantastic. [so was she in Metro too..]. How more 'droolable' it can get then having Koko on Marine Drive to chat with?? :)

Supporting actors -friends -Naved (Namit Das) and Nikki(Shikha Talsania) and Anupam Kher are quite ok. But Supriya Pathak won me over her touching performance. A mom who tries to learn English, just to befriend with her son! Loved her.

A huge credit goes to the production design [Amrita Mahal Nakai]. The movie looks Fantastic on screen. Thanks to cinematography Anil Mehta for some fabulous shots of Mumbai - the good 'old' mumbai. Baylon Fonseca's out and out fabulous sound design makes it worthy too. Dialogues and screenplay has kept the movie surprisingly simple. There aren't any preachy lines or typical situations which one expects from such movie. And that makes worthy. Overall treatment by Ayan Mukherji -the director is quite well handed, that it doesn't look like a first timer's flick.

[correct me if i m wrong] Amit Trivedi works WONDERS with his awesome background score. There are so many tracks in the movie which are not there in the Album. I loved all of them. I hope producers will come out with Background score CD too. The melodious 'Iktara' comes in a Punjabi version too. Its absolutely heart warming. Loved all the moments involving the song. And how can I forget my fav SEL! Their songs fits perfectly in the movie. They truly are the Guitar Kings of Bollywood.

All in all, its one heart warming story which inspires you without being preachy. Not a 'great' stuff but, nice commendable honest effort which haven't gone wrong. Must Watch it!!


My Rating : 3.5 / 5
Favorite scenes : Koko's B'day, Mumbai rains, Vey Malang tera Iktara...
Rewatch : Yes, but on DVD.

[and yeah, for all Mumbai lovers, who are not living in the city right now and missing it, you should not miss this :)]

Wake Up Sid....tell me - What's Your Raashee???

Was busy busy busy with me, and my life. As most of you know through my Tweets, that I just have got Engaged with my girl. So life had been on fast track. Now it has paused and I am enjoying a letter from alphabet-that's 'W'. Yup, being a music lover, its a treat for me that two very good soundtracks released simultaneously last week. Wake Up Sid by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and Amit Trivedi and What's Your Raashee? by Sohail Sen.. Both make it a really good listening with fresh bunch of tracks. Here's my take on both of them.

Wake Up Sid :

A K.Jo. production and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy [SEL]; who can overlook this? Peppy Title Track is fun to hum along. And similarly upbeat version of the same is quite good to play aloud. SEL seems to be in DCH mood and fab lyrics by Javed ji. 'Kya Karoon' has fresh feel with equally fresh voice of Clinton Cerejo, is quite youthful. Next track is a clear reminiscent of 'Kaisi Hai Yeh Rut' from DCH-Aaj Kal Zindgi is a trademark Shankar Mahadevan song, where he goes flipping between high and low pitch so so smoothly. A dreamy uplifting track. Last track 'Life is Crazy' has soft rock flavor. Good one to hangout with friends together.

Besides such nice tracks, the clear winner from album is 'Iktara'. One of the best example of perfect composition with guitar strings and classical sound mixed together. The track is stuck in mind since so many days. The refrain 'Goonja saa hai ektara' and 'hmmm...naino ko moond moond' is keep humming in my mind. Brilliant composition by Amit Trivedi and haunting voices of Kavita Seth & Amitabh Bhattacharya makes this one of the best track of the year.

What's Your Raashee ?

Frankly speaking, when I heard the soundtrack of What's Your Raashee, composed by Sohail Sen, I didn't like it quite much. May be its because of its an 'Ashutosh Gowarikar' production, so naturally I was thinking about 'Magnus Opus' as usual. But I forgot that Ashu had came up with mainstream like 'Baazi' too. And also I didn't know wht the movie is all about. After all this, and repeated listening, I quite liked the OST.
Jazzy title track starts of the album very well with fresh voice of Sohail Sen himself, but loved his voice in very next lovely song 'Jaao Naa'. A perfect song to make your loved one stay with you on those 'chori chori' mulakat. Funky 'Aaja Lehraate' sets you on fast beat. Next track surprises you with Sohail Sen singing again, and this time a much 'thehrav' wala song. 'Bikhri Bikhri' is one of my favorite from album. Sound of Tabla makes this lovely.

While 'Manunga Manunga' sung by Ashutosh himself is fun but situational track, yet another fabulous song is on the way after that as 'Sau Janam'. Mush content goes high as Madhushree, Sohail and Udit Narayan gives voice to this lovely composition with soft rock bits. After Ashu, its his sister Aslesha who also tries her hand at singing, her 'Aa le Chal' is quite peppy foot tapping track. Sohail is unstoppable with another beautiful song 'Pyaari Pyaari' with Alka Yagnik. Its a quite 90's song but good listen.

Gujju!!! Me!! Yay ! A gujju song for Priyanka Chopra!! So how can I overlook it? 'Su Chhe' is really a fun fun song. Bela Shende does nice job for this fun track. BTW 'Su chhe su chhe mane kai dyo, kai dyo mann maa su chhe' translates as ' What's there, what's there, in your mind, tell me tell me'

'Salone Kya' is Arabian kinda song with 'Shudh Hindi' lyrics. While 'Dhadkan' sounds situational, may be a wedding song. Another 'seems wedding' song is 'Koi Jaane Naa' another favorite of mine. Would be interesting to see climax with this song.

All musicians these days come up with remix tracks of most of the tracks from the album, just to fill up the CDs. But here, Sohail Sen has done quite innovative job in concluding track 'Chehra jo dikhe hain' - where he mixes up all 12 tracks into one, and that too with different lyrics and song. This would be must watch on screen.

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Well, so, what are your favorite tracks from both of the albums??

Valentine's Day with Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy

Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy (SEL) are masters of peppy, sweet songs. Many of the movies, where they have given music, are romantic dramas. And somehow, most of the time they get along with Javed Akhtar, ending up creating sweet mushy cuddly love songs worth to play on the Valentines. So here are my picks for the V-Day to play along with your loved one around.

Again, I have made a Youtube playlist for all of them [well, almost] tell me if you liked it or not. And how about your OWN list? [besides SEL- will also do]

10. Yeh Pyar Kya Hai [Marigold]: Surprising choice, isn't it? This movie is largely unknown. But music of it, was worth notice. Shaan gives life to superb words of Javed Akhtar. Guitar strings are great. I could not find original video, but this animated one, is really sweet and cute.

09. Kitni Narmi Se [Dil Jo Bhi Kahey] : This is another movie, which is un-noticed. But here its Sonu Nigaam. Rendering this sweet song of a boy, falling in love for the first time. Again sweet words by Javedji. Dreamy dreamy song, like a shower of rain in green hill garden. I haven't found original video of this too. So I have put video of my favorite TV series 'Remix'. Audio is same only video is from series.

08. Aao Naa Aao Naa [Kyon, ho Gaya Naa] : Ash looked beautiful like never before. This thing I have marked that, when she was in love with Viveik, she looked awesome in all her movies of that time. I am not big fan of hers, but I loved her in this and in Shabd. The song clearly goes to singer Sadhna Sargam. Udit joins her lately in second half of the song, but Sadhna is just so fantastic.

07. Pyaar Ki Dastaan [Luck By Chance] : Now this is recent favorite of mine. Typical bollywood love song, with different feel to it. Fabulous visuals. Great words again by Javedji. Amit Paul and Mahalaxmi performs this one with so much love.

06. Meri zindgi Mein Aaye Ho [Armaan] : This song is little bit special to me. Some sentiments you know. Javedji's words and [surprising] Sunidhi Chauhan's voice makes this so special alongwith ever dependable Sonu Nigam.

05. Tumhi Dekho Naa [Kabhi Alvida...] : Colorful. Is a single word to describe it. Never have I seen such brilliant use of color in a video. Making it so so much lovely. And SRK / Rani jodi looks great. Javedji again.....Alka and Sonu does great job.

04. Yeh Tumhari Meri Baatein [Rock On] : Oooh...Love is all around. Guitar strings and Dominique Cerejo's amazing voice, make you fall in love. [javedji again :-D]

03. Bol Na Halke Halkie [Jhoom Barabar Jhoom]: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Mahalaxmi Iyer. A wow composition and equally wow vocals. Dash of sufi and Gulzar saab's great words, makes you drool. The video though, let me down by weird looking Abhishek. But besides that, great visuals of North India.

02. Kaisi hai yeh Rut [Dil Chahta Hai] : Dreams of love. First love. Akshye Khanna. Singer Srinivas. Visuals. There are so many reasons to love this song. Brilliant....lovely, I can feel falling hearts around me, whenever I listen to this.

Now I am being selfish, cause I just couldn't decide between following two. So I can't help but put TWO songs on the post of No.1.

01. Jeene Ke Ishaare [Phir Milenge] : Again this was a small movie about a cause. SEL are guest composers. But they created this memorable song for this. Starts with Guitar strings [these guys are best at using Guitar]. Shankar himself does the job of singing and he is just so fabulous. Shilpa looked lovely with Salman on screen. The chorus singing, always gives me goosebumps of joy, of love. And this was amongst the first of now acclaimed writer Prasoon Joshi.

01. Kuchh Toh Hua Hai [Kal Ho Naa Ho] : There is not a single song, that can match lyrics of this. Complete description of first love. And at the same time, so simple lyrics by Javedji. Shaan and Alka Yagnik does superb job, and on-screen Saif-Priety looks so so good. I just love the song so much.

So these are my favorite songs from SEL, I hope I haven't missed any good one from them. are there any? And yes,

Happy Valentines Day to you all....love you Bloggers !!

Rockford - Nagesh Kukunoor [1999]

Nagesh Kukunoor - A name often taken for great movies like Dor, Hyderabad Blues, 3 deewarein and Iqbal. But nobody much remember his earlier flicks like Rockford and Bollywood Calling. Why, why comedy is such ignored genre in bollywood when it comes to count great work of someone?

Anyways, Rockford, is not a comedy as many reference sites and books puts into the genre. Its a story about a 13 yr old boy, Rajesh Naidu, [Rohan Dey] who comes to this High School, set somewhere in South Indian Hill station. School is a convent one. So we oughta see Brothers, Sisters, Fathers and Mothers. [This is one reason, this movie is my personal fav, cause I have studied in same kinda place].

13 year old, Rajesh, who is never left alone by parents. Now he has to live alone far away from home. This thought, in India, is very depressing. I remember my parents too often threat me of putting me in a hostel if I mess around anymore. There, his parents are living him in hostel.

See anything alike?? Below ---

Here, he meets his benchmate first. Selva Reddy - excellently played by Kailash Atmanathan - who is a happy go lucky kid. Who knows everything-just everything. I just loved his character. The way his part is written and developed, is really interesting. Each viewer feels attached to his character and remembers their own pals in school.


Another pal joining them is David,played by Imran Mirza a sports freak with heart of Gold. He is arrogant, but always helpful and kind to his friends. Mature enough to control Selva's freakiness.

Convent school has its own rules. Its own people. Its own bad things too. Ragging, pranks, and even 'Monthly Prank Awards' are also held overhere in this school !! In physical exams, Rajesh can't do even a single pull-up. And then enters his savior - Johnny Mathew [Nagesh Kukunoor] An assistant physical trainer. Who tearches not to recognise failure. And many more other things too. ;-)

Enter Ms.Vegas, - Nandita das looks lovely in Saree as a teacher, whom every student admires. ;-) After all, she is among the only girl in this all male boarding. see for yourself.

See those faces smiling??? Especially, Selva. I just loved his character as i told earlier. See his many moods in following cap.

Then follows is sweet school memories, and funny moments. Tries to woo girls. and much more. Then our boy meets Malti [Ulrika krishnamurthy] and falls instantly for her. Why not? she is so adorable and lovely girl.

Parts of the movie are so funny and in parts, it is much inspiring too. And most of the moments are like that, you can relate yourself to it. Set up of the movie is so much familier. And many of us have gone through such phase in our own lives.

See, who hasn't made 'Gupshup' and 'chit' chat in class like that??

OR, how about first shave and first kiss ....?

first Love letter, and first piece of Porn????

or the FIRST....... [Watch the movie, for that]

Beauty of the movie lies in its simplicity. No matter its a low budget film. Picturisation looks weird in today's senario. Where we gotta see fabulously picturised things on screens. But movie packs in such a warm and witty things that I got flattered to. And mind you, this is not 'art house' cinema. Just a small bollywood movie.

Everyone has acted superbly. Nandita Das is just doing a cameo for the movie. In other cast, Nagesh has done good job. So is Jayant Kriplani as principal. And above all, the juniors, are the backbone of this movie. Rohan, Ulrika and Kailash just amazing. They are first timers, but we can see they just dont act. They just live the movie.

I live you here with some hillarious moments of the movie. One is a moment which comes twice in movie. Hillarious take of song 'Ankhiya tu mila le raja' from Aamir's movie 'ISHQ'.

The song comes again in an emotional moment, which made me shed tears. Watch the movie for that.

Another hillarious song is 'Shokhiyon mein...from Dev Anand's movie Prem Pujari. Here, first Rohan and Nandita sings the song. Later Nagesh takes place of Dev saab.

Here, is original video of devsaab and beautiful Waheeda Rehman.

Now lets turn to most favortie part of mine. thats MUSIC ofcourse.

This movie has featured some tracks which are lifetime favorite for me. Fabulous TWO tracks. One is by SHANKAR-EHSAN-LOY and other one taken from KAY KAY's first album. Pal. - Yaaron Dosti which is an anthem is now for friendship.

So there goes, my first review of an old movie, old in terms of not recently released, but I just got re watched it. And just to share with you. So please do watch this flick, and hey, its totally in English, so there you won't need any subtitles. So watch it and tell me you liked it or not.

P.S.: This movie contains some mature [adult] jokes on sexual feelings of pre-teen boys. so it that is not your piece of cake, then I would not recommand this to you.

And again finally, SEE ANYTHING ALIKE???

Luck By Chance – Music Review

I am confused. Always, always I am confused between Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy [referred in here as SEL] and A R Rehman. I don't want to compare the two, but naturally comparison ho jaati hai. Rehman gives such stupendous score in each film. While SEL gives music, which is totally involved in the film. One can not think anything but the movie itself. Like in TZP, Rock On – which we have heard recently. Tracks are so dedicated to the movie itself.

Luck By Chance, is a movie about Film Industry, aspirations of youth to join it and hopes higher then sky. To become star, a big star in this wide wide sky. So here, SEL presents a really interesting combination of tracks for the movie. While daddy dearest Javed Akhtar gave some nice words to it. After all, its Zoya Akhtar's debut as Director.

Yeh Zindgi Bhi: The album starts off with a track that describes the theme, even story of the film. Loy Mendonsa & Shekhar [of Vishal-Shekhar] gives voice to this beautiful rendition. Its about ambition and aspirations. And where does life takes them. Song starts with low note, and Shekhar adds special touch and cozy feel. In its peak, the song gets vast feeling and following words describes the feel of the movie. Shekhar of Vishal-Shekhar pair, has sung this, while in Dostana - Shankar Mahadevan sung Desi Girl. Now that's what I call Professionalism. The tradition of singing in other musician's work is going really good places.

Jo palko ke tale, hai apne sapne leke chale, ha kah do woh chale sambhalke;

Naa karna koi gile, kahi jo thokar aisi lage, ke sapne toote Aansu Chhalke''

Will you translate this for me theBollywoodFan???

Baawre : We get another surprise, another performance by Loy. I am just surprised why he had not been singing till now. This is kinda desi track. Starts off with qawaali kind of rendition by Shankar. This track is mad mad mad ride to Bollywood. The colorful movies with chorus dancing and dancing stars. Close your eyes and you can see colorful Bollywood around you. Lyrics are also apt for this feel. I would not call this Foot Tapping, but Body Rocking. You oughta see Hrithik dancing to this tune. He is superbly awesome. Here is the video….

Interestingly, this tune goes Don way after first half. The Don theme, which featured in SRK theme, this is exactly same. Don't be surprised if you get to see SRK on the screen. Also the Last track – Baawre [remix] is very much same as Don's remix theme.

Pyaar Ki Dastaan: Now, we have to take at least one love ballad, if this is movie about Bollywood, no? Here, SEL special. Lovely as usual SEL songs are. Amit Paul [runner-up of Indian Idol 3] teams up with ever dependable Mahalaxmi. This is quite a mix of Chup chup ke [Bunty/babli] & Mera Dil [Salaam-e-ishq]. So smooth and lovely words. Predictable words, though, you will love the track.

Yeh Aaj Kya Ho Gaya : Smooth, is the main word of this album. All tracks are so smooth, I just love them. This is a soft rock kinda song by Sunidhi. She leave us thinking why SEL didn't took her in Rock On?? Drums, keyboard and vocals everything is so fine. The song is about Morning, and hope, which comes by every new dawn. Yaay, I want more of this,SEL, keep going on…

Sapno Se Bhare Naina:Finally, here came track which I was waiting for. Since the first promos were out, I was dying to listen this fabulous track. Shankar Mahadevan, proves to be Most Versatile Singer, in this industry. Song starts with slow rendition with Classical Fusion touch. And goes damn well with Bass. The words expresses depression and struggle of a newcomer. We already have seen in promos.

Interesting part of the track is halfway. Where Shankar does his fantastic job, the Sargam [indian classical] sung is damn damn good. I cant get enough of this track.

O Raahi Re..: Guitar. I just love this thing. And when Ehsaan is playing that…..wow. This track surely going to him. And again, Shankar shows his versatality. Such great singing. Such great arrangment. Oh my God, I am in love with this track. So soothing, it reminds of S D Burman's songs. About raahi, about life. Great great.

I would again request you theBollywoodFan to translate this. These two songs are so good, that it shall reach to all.

Damn, I am so eager to watch all these tracks on screen. Add Konkona Sen & Farhaan to this. I am chewing my nails….. Overall, this is surely a good soundtrack. I would rate this 4 out of 5. Go for it.