Karan Johar is known for his larger than life movies with huge stars, exotic locales and 3 hours of tear jerking drama. His films are usually garnished with exquisite musical compositions. When I first heard of his next movie KANK and its music done by Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy, my expectations instantly soared up. I had got mixed feedback on the quality of the songs but after listening to them myself, I fully agree with my title- the music grows on you.
Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna
Singer: Sonu Nigam, Alka Yagnik
This song begins with some gentle music which carries on till Sonu’s vocals. Pure melody is undoubtedly Sonu’s best mastered genre and Alka Yagnik lends him full (at places a little faltering) support. This is an 8 minute long song based on the pain of separation. What I loved most about it is that it has not been cluttered with all sorts of instruments. Its pure, soft and yet sad. Its sure to grow on you with time.
Mitwa- love will find a way
Singer: Shankar, Shafqat Amanat Ali, Caralisa
Quite the best and easiest to love track of KANK, Mitwa is a winner all the way. The song has a fair share of fine lyrics by Javed Akhtar, a good blend of vocals and above all, lifting music. This is completely about the let-love-get you kind of theme. Anyone who’s in love or ever was cannot dislike this track.
It reappears in a "revisited" format. This version is faster with more beats and a dance feel. I prefer the original. ;)
Where’s the party tonight?
Singer: Shaan, Vasundhara Das, Shankar
Not a party animal by nature, I had apprehensions about my likeability factor for this song. Though this song is nothing too novel and can easily be linked to "Its the time to disco", its still fun! The catchline is sung in a funky manner. Some cool English vocals, some lilting music- it won’t really let you down. This song is sure to rise in popularity after the promos start airing it.
Tumhi Dekho Na
Singer: Sonu Nigam, Alka Yagnik
Melody retouched. "Tumhara hoon main aur tum meri" stays with the listener long after the song is over. Absolutely a love song, one can almost visualise the charming locations KJ would have shot the song in. Both the singers complement each other well. Though some people may find it a little monotonous at places, I totally loved it. I won’t comment about how it could have been better as comparison makes this album weak. Watch out for some interesting music at places.
Farewell Trance
Singer: Shweta Pandit, Caralisa
This is largely an instrumental piece which works on the melody of the title track and Tumhi Dekho Na. There are some vocals about so-b’ful love thrown in. This trance should feature with the credits somewhere. Its an okay hearing, mainly done on piano, flute and bits of sarangi.
Rock n Roll Soniye
Singer: Shaan, Shankar, Mahalaxmi
This is where KJ’s lucky mascot Kajol is supposed to make an appearance. I found this track to be on a similar theme as Leyja Leyja from K3G. I didnt like this a huge lot though..The lyrics are not too original, there are even bit of "Sir pe topi laal" thrown in. This is a decent hearing if you are in mood for fun.
All said and done, KANK is for select audiences. With a typical multiplex feel attached, the album also has has mixed reactions. If you dont compare it with KJ’s earlier movies, this wont seem like a big let down.