Vishal-Gulzar strike again

Vishal Bhardwaj and Gulzar’s partnership has yielded many gems in the past — Maachis (1996), Satya (1998) and Omkara (2006). Their rich legacy fuels high hopes and luckily, this album doesn’t disappoint.

Film: Ek Thi Daayan
Music: Vishal Bhardwaj
Lyrics: Gulzar

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Vishal Bhardwaj and Gulzar’s partnership has yielded many gems in the past — Maachis (1996), Satya (1998) and Omkara (2006). Their rich legacy fuels high hopes and luckily, this album doesn’t disappoint.

The first song, ‘Yaaram’, takes quite a few swings — beginning with an ethereal orchestral music backdrop, building up tempo to transform into a club number, and gradually returning to an R&B space. Clinton Cerejo’s genius at music production is written all over the song. He’s also sung this duet with Sunidhi Chauhan, who sounds mellow. Add to this, the charm of Gulzar’s conversational lyrics: ‘Suraj se pehle jagaaenge aur akhbaar ki sab surkhiyan hum gungunaaenge’. Suresh Wadkar and Rekha Bhardwaj won us over in ‘Tote ud gaye’. The best thing about the song — with heavy basslines, steady groove and lively dhols — is that it isn’t too loud, but has an arresting quality that makes you groove while listening to it.

Keeping in tune with the film’s plot, ‘Kaali kaali’ exudes a dark charm. Now, as has been witnessed in the past, it is very easy for composers to go overboard while capturing eeriness in music. But this song nails the murky theme in an almost exemplary fashion. ‘Lautungi main’ goes a mile further and combines melancholy with angst. The song boasts of grand orchestral sounds and a variety of percussions.

‘Sapna re sapna’ is a soothing lullaby sung by Little Champs participant Padmanabh Gaikwad. The talented kid is effortlessly emotive and lends an honesty to the song. With all of five songs — each captivating in its own right — the album is a must-listen.

What we like
Excellent production, music and lyrics

What we don’tlike
Very short album