You can listen to the soundtrack here.
Amit Trivedi totally nails the retro folksy sound in Sawaar Loon (evoking such beauties as Main Zindagi Ka Saath and Dil Ka Bhanwar), as usual making beautiful use of strings alongside that simple percussion template. Choice of Monali Thakur works splendidly as she does a fabulous rendition of Amitabh Bhattacharya’s matchingly old school lines (with a konnakol cameo from the composer himself). Good to finally hear a song that uses Monali’s voice well. Ankahee is the first time I can remember Amitabh Bhattacharya getting a non-wacky, non-chorus playback role; and what a fine job he makes of it! Not to be outdone in any manner is the arrangement, led once again by the strings. The understated use of brass percussion adds a nice touch to the affairs. Composer next enters Bengali folk territory and spins out a winner there too, the instantly likeable Monta Re. The usual folk elements associated with the genre are all there adorning the background, and towering above them is Swanand Kirkire’s earthy singing. Hat tip to Amitabh for that Baul-based cameo.
The rock-infused sounds of Shikaayatein are bound to remind one of Udaan, and not just for the guitars. But if there is something that helps mitigate that, it is the vocals – that of the ever-reliable Mohan Kannan and the chorus formed by the lyricist. Continuing on the Udaan hangover in a more pronounced manner is Zinda that is rendered by the composer himself. Elaborate use of strings notwithstanding, this still is the weakest song of the soundtrack for the earlier stated reason. Then comes Manmarziyan. The centerpiece of the soundtrack. There is the guitar going on a haunting medieval folk-ish hook, there are the lovely violin phrases layered above that, the touch of exotic with the occasional santoor, and the vocals harmonies that add to the ethereal feel. And the icing on the cake – Shilpa Rao – Amit employs the lady’s voice pretty much the same way he has in the past, and to equally scintillating effect. Enough to say that the song will stay with you long after the santoor strains trail away.
Lootera. The Udaan team of Vikramaditya Motwane-Amit Trivedi-Amitabh Bhattacharya delivers a musical extravaganza on their second outing as well!
Music Aloud Rating: 8.5/10
Top Recos: Manmarziyan, Monta Re, Sawaar Loon
