"Hi I'm Shankar, from Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy," says Loy introducing himself, while the other two break out into hearty laughter. Judging by the quirky welcome, one can safely say their music is as witty and unconventional as they are.
After making the world groove to 'Kajra Re', musical trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy are back with yet another ear-catching soundtrack in Karan Johar's 'Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna'. "Initially, when we heard the story, we were pretty shocked that Karan could come up with such a concept. But we've watched the film and are convinced that we have lived up to our 'Kal Ho Naa Ho' calibre," states Shankar.
Unaffected by criticism towards the 'KANK' soundtrack, he snaps, "Nobody can decide what music one must or must not listen to. The fact that the soundtrack is on the top of charts with 'Mitwa' proves its worth."
Ironically, the trio who are known for their alternative sound, have composed two consecutively well-received soundtracks for the very conventional filmmaker. Hasn't there been a clash of views? "Karan is quite particular about what he wants and even rejected one of our songs. Ultimately, it is the filmmaker who realises which songs will blend into the film. It only makes us look better," asserts Ehsaan.
As far as present day Hindi music goes, unlike others, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy try and avoid comparisons with the 'eternally' melodious music of yore. "In that era, there was one radio station and five television channels. Obviously, only the best were highlighted. As a listener today you are served with every kind of music; you need to make a choice," says Loy.
Incidentally, their next venture 'Don' is a remake but they are least perturbed about expectations of living up to the famous 'Kahike Paan Banaras Wala' melody. "Farhan (Akhtar) understands his music so well that he can never go wrong. Be it with 'Dil Chahta Hai', 'Lakshya' or 'Don', he knows exactly what he wants, which makes our job much easier," says Shankar.
With three big films under their belt including Nikhil Advani's upcoming 'Salaam-e-Ishq', and an independent album slated for release this year, it looks like the music moguls are gearing up to give us some real good gana-bajana!
CID
