Vishal-Shekhar mesmerise with 'Shanghai' songs

Film: 'Shanghai'; Music Director: Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravijani; Lyricist: Dibakar Banerjee,Vishal Dadlani, Anvita Dutt Guptan, Neelesh Misra, Kumaar; Singers: Shekhar Ravijani, Vishal Dadlani, Arun Ingle, Mandar Apte, Dibakar, Bhupesh, R.N. Iyer, Raja Hassan, Kirti Sagathia, Richa Sharma, Nandini Srikar; Rating: *** 1/2

The music of a Dibakar Banerjee film is not something you watch out for because he is known for making gritty and compelling movies. But when you have Emraan Hashmi in the cast, the music can't go wrong. 'Shanghai' brings together an ensemble of singers and lyricists blending well with the compositions created by Vishal-Shekhar. The soundtrack is indeed imaginative and has something for everyone.

First up is 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. A modern day national anthem, it is a satirical take on the existing state of affairs in the country. It starts on a high note with the beating of drums and a lot of voices have crooned the song together, including Keerti Sagathia and Vishal Dadlani. However, the highlights are the lyrics penned by Dibakar, who has also lent his voice to the track.

It also has a remix version, which is equally good. But musically speaking, it's not too different from the original. It should have got a better treatment from the music directors.

'Imported Kamariya' is a totally opposite song. The item number has very funny lyrics. The best part is Richa Sharma's voice that takes control along with back-up vocals by Vishal-Shekhar. But the composition disappoints as it is not at par with the duo's capabilities. Plus, one simply wonders why they did not remix this one.

'Duaa', penned by Kumaar, starts on a soothing tone with the beautiful voice of Nandini Sirkar. Singers Arijit Singh and Shekhar join her and together they create the perfect track that makes you fall in love with the flow of emotions in it. The composition is equally good with a mix of Indian and Western sounds, but it is the vocals that mesmerises you.

Next on the playlist is 'Khudaaya'. Written by Neelesh Misra, it is a soft romantic number sung by Shekhar. While Vishal is known for his powerful voice, Shekhar too should cash in on his melodious voice. He is an absolute delight to the ears and carries the whole song on his shoulder with Raja Hassan supporting him well.

It also has a remix version that is a passe.

'Morcha', penned by Vishal, is an inspirational number, but not too commanding in terms of the music but scores big in terms of the lyrics that talk about having a strong, corruption free India. Maybe his association with the anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare paved the way for the track. Nonetheless, he does a descent job in the singing department backed by Raja Hassan.

The album rounds up with 'Mantra Vishnu Sahasranamam'. Sung by Srivatsa Krishna, the devotional chant means the Thousand Names of Vishnu. It helps you connect with your traditional ethos and will definitely manage to garner some support.

On the whole, 'Shanghai' is a good package with new musical styles to suit the varying needs of music lovers. The only disappointment is the remixes, but that can be ignored as other songs completely bowl you over.