Bhoomi Trivedi opens the album with a spirited rendition of the catchy title track Ram chahe Leela. Trivedi, best known for participating in a music reality show, is outstanding in her delivery of this energetic number. Bhansali’s tune is an entertaining fusion of rock and folk that makes for great listening.
Lahu munh lag gaya is familiar territory for the composer – a beautiful melody wrapped around a Gujarati folk bed. Although the opening lyrics Lahu munh lag gaya sound a tad strange to the ear, Shail Hada’s mesmerising vocals work like a charm.
Aditi Paul, yet another contestant of a reality show, gets her big mainstream Bollywood song in Ang laga de and does a remarkable job. This lilting melody is soft, sensual and pleasing to the ear. Every Bhansali film has one song that’s an ode to the moon and in this album, it’s Poore chand (Shail Hada). This track could well have been a part of the soundtrack of Saawariya or Guzaarish. It’s a soothing number, no doubt, but there’s nothing novel about the composition or the arrangement.
Nagada sang dol is a rousing, festive garba number that’s super addictive. Shreya Ghoshal is in top form and, keeping her company in the closing notes of this energetic song is the talented Osman Mir. The Gujarati chorus portions are particularly impressive. This one’s a definite chartbuster. Mor bani thanghat kare is a contemporary version of the traditional folk song. Mir is a compelling reason to give this song a listen. He is exquisite in his rendition of this rustic number.
Ishqyaun dhishqyaun and Tattad tattad are two tracks that stick out like sore thumbs in this album. They are entertaining, no doubt, but belong to the soundtrack of a South Indian remake flick and not a Bhansali film!
Ghoshal conveys the sense of longing so wonderfully well in Dhoop. This is her turf and she is excellent in this haunting melody. The pick of the album, however, is Arijit Singh’s Laal ishq. Bhansali uses gentle percussion, strings and shehnai to create a contemplative, almost prayer-like song of love. Singh adds so much soul to this gentle number with his poignant rendition.
Verdict: Must buy!
