tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501380121886916872012-01-15T11:32:13.043-08:00Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.comBlogger2481100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-5586291855537133072012-01-05T05:13:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:06.479-08:00

'Jalte Badan' [review]; a film about the perils of drug addiction. They tend to be quite fun. I don't know if the Bollywood ones were made with sincere intentions in mind or if they (too) were just exploitation, but either way, when trip-out songs were required for such films, music directors often excelled.'Aag Se Aag Bujhale' is no exception. It starts with a long intro (sadly missing from the

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-56930559373016481112011-11-28T08:40:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:06.493-08:00

Here's one from Ravi. Never the most ingenious of music directors, and more often than not I find his scores a bit dull; this soundtrack is however an exception. 'Dharkan' boasts a delightfully wistful lounge track ('Pee Meri Ankhon Se'), a rockin' cabaret number ('Jab Tu Ne Kuchh Na Kiya') much in the vein of Shankar Jaikishan or even early RD Burman, chirpy and catchy accordion pop ('Main To

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-19806371837363396842011-11-22T05:40:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:06.508-08:00

And another. This one's a very different sounding score from what is usually expected from Bappi Lahiri though; there's nothing bombastic or cheesy or even loud to be found on 'Kamla'. Perhaps it was decided that for a film dealing with modern-day domestic slavery, a more subdued tone would be appropriate. To his credit, Bappi pulls it off just fine - it's a soundtrack well worth a few

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-58060740155606065162011-11-10T04:23:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:06.523-08:00

I didn't plan on this one. I had presumptively pegged 'Pasand Apni Apni' as a dime-a-dozen, bland, mid-80s Bappi Lahiri soundtrack not really worth bothering with. And it was Sharon Prabhakar I was looking for YouTube clips of (having rather liked her on 'Qurbani In English) when I came across 'Ding Dong Ding Dong'. It took me by surprise that I couldn't stop playing it; that wasn't supposed to

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-70021817580806607982011-10-28T05:04:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:06.542-08:00

It shouldn't have come as a surprise to me, but it did. Collecting and listening to Bollywood soundtracks for more than a decade, blogging about them for four years; it wasn't until after I'd completed MFT3F's initial run that I first heard (heard of) what has to be one of RD Burman's greatest songs. Fellow enthusiast and frequent commenter Harshi posted a link to 'I Am Falling In Love' on

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-35533846771365215892011-10-24T12:53:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:06.557-08:00

From what I've heard from those in the know, 'Surakksha' is the soundtrack on which Bappi Lahiri went from merely dabbling in disco to being the first Indian music director to fully embrace it. If that's true, 'Tum Jo Bhi Ho' could well be the first real Bollywood disco anthem. It has all the markings: Heavy beats, Giorgio Moroder-esque electro stylings, disco strings, soaring melody, funky

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-79124088649772474732011-09-23T13:01:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:06.572-08:00

A Laxmikant Pyarelal score from 1974 (in addition to 1973, their best year I think) sporting a wonderfully cool cover; I couldn't resist picking this one up. 'Naatak' may not be quite on par with some of their best efforts from the period, but a few songs on the album strike my fancy. 'Zindagi Ek Naatak Hai' (I'm partial to the sad version) is packed with passion and drama, with an enticing intro

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-56691620594414512152011-09-16T01:06:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:06.587-08:00

I've never been able to find out whose idea it was to make an English language version of the 'Qurbani' soundtrack, nor the reason for it. Biddu's involvement might have played a part; one can imagine Polydor wanting to capitalize on his reputation and fame in English speaking countries (primarily the UK) by releasing an 'international' version. But if that was the case, it's slightly odd that

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-66440770947909458742011-07-15T06:31:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:06.602-08:00

The first time I saw Biddu's name on a Bollywood soundtrack, I was somewhat surprised. I had been totally unaware of his career other than that as a very successful UK pop producer; to me he was primarily the man behind Tina Charles, whose 'I Love To Love' was one of the first songs able to entice my younger self onto a school disco dance floor. I don't think I even knew he was Indian. And

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-26943949098469234892011-06-30T23:55:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:06.617-08:00

More kid's stuff, this time the score to an Indian children's movie. A rare thing, apparently. 'Safed Haathi' is another LP I picked up (cheaply) out of curiosity more than anything; Ravindra Jain is a music director whose name I've come across quite often, but never previously been tempted to pursue. It's also one of those albums where they've thrown together the songs (and bits of songs),

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-16726699593473774802011-06-30T12:37:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:06.632-08:00

A while back, I was asked by a reader if I could recommend some Bollywood songs aimed at kids. At the time I couldn't, but being a parent myself, the request did pique my curiosity. I've always had a soft spot for artists who show the youngest segment of their audience their due respect, so when this album turned up I found it hard to resist.And as it turns out, 'Songs For Children' is a great

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-41612545649566105512011-06-18T09:19:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:06.724-08:00

Full LP version of a score previously posted as an EP, so some of you might be familiar with some of the songs. Breezy, fun and pretty darn wonderful all the way through; if you're on the lookout for a ready made soundtrack for summer, 'Mr. Romeo' could well be it. I'm particularly fond of 'Isi Shaher Men, Isi Gali Men Magar Yeh Nahin' at the moment.Track listing: 1. Kishore Kumar, Asha

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-13381770540255406202011-06-10T02:00:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:06.980-08:00

I have on occasion toyed with the idea of putting together a compilation of RD Burman instrumentals. It would, inevitably, be a fantastic collection, and 'Dance Music' from 'Mukti' [review] would be one of its finest tracks.I've played it non-stop since obtaining the soundtrack a few months ago. If Ennio Morricone, Henry Mancini and Lalo Schifrin had ever worked together, the result might have

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-46041596413305106972011-05-26T00:26:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:07.075-08:00

A Kalyanji Anandji score, mid-70s; chances are it'll be a worthwhile listen. That was my reasoning when deciding to buy 'Kasauti', and I wasn't entirely wrong. Perhaps not one of their top, most memorable soundtracks, but it has a few good songs.There's the playful, rock'n'roll tinged 'Baby Ho Gayi Hain Jawan', with plenty of fun instrumental details if not the strongest of melodies. The same can

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-49925274260250644952011-05-10T05:17:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:07.164-08:00

   Two oddities this time around: I mentioned earlier why the Gramophone Company of India didn't take kindly to Polydor releasing the soundtrack to 'The Train', and how they responded by putting out an EP of cover versions. Well, here it is. I imagine the release would have seemed redundant and even desperate at the time; the tracks do sound somewhat lacklustre, as if nobody involved really had

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-1644936664821315252011-05-06T05:11:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:07.252-08:00

OK, so I know I've said that the Third Floor project is completed. And essentially it is. As proven over the last couple of weeks though, there'll still be a bit of activity; additional albums, new comments - it's kind of nice to keep this place alive, kicking, connected. Does that warrant a Facebook page? Yeah, why not… as good a place as any to keep people updated. Might even post the odd

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-22381468139792040652011-05-05T00:41:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:07.346-08:00

This one had been on my radar since I first started getting into Bollywood soundtracks; for some reason it took forever to find. Three tracks (especially) makes it worthwhile: The infectious 'Aa Khelen Chhuppa-Chhuppi' (approx. 6:30 into the clip), 80s Bolly disco that for once has a proper, dance worthy, down and dirty groove; 'Aa Bahon Men Aa', more of the same only with more of a lounge

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-68981663242947988912011-04-26T05:54:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:07.435-08:00

I have to confess that what initially drew me to 'Agent 009' was the title and the cover's mod-tinged spy imagery; I'm a sucker for that type of stuff. I was slightly curious as well though, to find out what Sonik Omi sounded like in the 80s, seeing as most of my other albums by them were made nearly 10 years prior. Surprisingly then, perhaps, there hadn't been much of a change. For better or

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-40510604243075766872011-04-12T03:24:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:07.524-08:00

A few more soundtracks have come my way since last I posted. 'Roti' [review] had been on my want list for quite a while; I'd forgotten why, but it didn't take many listens to remind me it was all due to the instrumentals. Three of them, and they're excellent. The first is freaked-out blaxploitation music enhanced by wild percussion, the second is a lovely strummed Morricone interlude, harmonica

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-21070641095715201202010-12-10T00:01:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:07.615-08:00

A much sought after and oft-requested classic. It's been a long time coming (I only managed to acquire a copy about a year or so ago) but well worth the wait. And many will already be familiar with it, by reputation if nothing else. For the uninitiated, what we have here is the result of somebody, possibly director Raj Kapoor, coming up with the fairly unique idea of releasing, in addition to

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-90583505059399329412010-12-04T13:23:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:07.710-08:00

I was fed up with the old blog design, so I changed it. Just in time for the seventh volume in the Music From The Third Floor compilation series. Good stuff!Track listing:1. Dance Music (from Amar)2. Yeh Nach Wach Kya Hai (from Ek Haseena Do Diwane)3. Peene Ke Baad Aati Hain Yaad (from Bullet)4. I Am A Call Girl (from Call Girl)5. Title Music (from Kismat)6. Dil Ka Rishta Jod Diya Hai (

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-81219951854591819912010-11-29T00:31:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:07.802-08:00

I obtained this soundrack around the same time I first learned how to make MP3s from vinyl, something which resulted in me emailing the title track to everyone I knew with the accompanying message "LISTEN TO THIS!!" 'I Am A Call Girl' was, and still is, one of my favourite Bollywood tracks; the combination of seedy lyrics (sung in English by Ranu Mukherjee, whom I otherwise know nothing about)

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-7600066532380039252010-11-25T23:45:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:07.891-08:00

'Bullet' [review] wasn't among the first Bollywood soundtracks I obtained, but it was one I really wanted from an early stage. Rumours had it that this was the ultimate RD Burman score, encapsulating everything his reputation as an ingenious sonic adventurer was based upon. And it had a lovely, mod/pop art flavoured cover. Such things appeal to me. Copies I came across tended to be very

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-9023853086543894912010-11-22T12:49:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:07.977-08:00

I think it's fair to say that hadn't it been for the 60s/70s masala beat and funk stuff, Burman and Kalyanji Anandji et al., I wouldn't have been as much into Bollywood soundtracks as I arguably am. But I'd still have been a fan of Geeta Dutt; with all due respect to Asha and Lata, she's my favourite of the female playback singers. So when a vintage O.P. Nayyar score comes along which has her

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-1901988518298227352010-11-19T00:12:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:08.178-08:00

It's funny how this album used to (probably still does) turn up on eBay at exorbitant 3-digit buy-it-now prices. I paid $10 for my copy. It's funny how they tended to be accompanied by descriptions of the "superhot megasexy NUDE WOMAN on cover" sort. Maybe someone should take these eager (evidently very young and innocent) sellers aside and explain to them a thing or two. It's also funny how I

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-86152654441463219832010-11-04T12:34:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:08.271-08:00

Back mid-november with the last batch of goodies.

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-81844794712167922432010-10-14T03:46:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:08.375-08:00

   RB Burman in Lounge, two EPs worth, both excellent. Pretty much every track on these has a cool and laidback, quintessential 70s vibe to it; pretty much all of them are great. 'Yahan Nahin Kahoongi' and 'Hey Mujhe Dil De' (from 'Mr. Romeo') and 'Dekho Mujhe Dekho' and 'Hum Tum Gum Sum' (from 'Humshakal') are my current faves... but that could change. I really wouldn't mind getting hold of

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-44220581290312428102010-10-12T03:04:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:08.482-08:00

   'Dekho Abto' is a song I find hard to qualify. Liking it, or not, I suppose, would depend a bit on whether one thinks that any foreign or exotic version of an overly familiar Beatles song is a good thing or not. And possibly how one responds to a 35 year-old sporting an ill-fitting Beatles wig in a picturization verging on parody. Personally I'm unmoved, but that may have to do with the fact

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-17306573521366594992010-09-22T12:14:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:08.572-08:00

   Another batch of EPs, and for all their shortcomings (literally) I am rather fond of the format. Kalyanji Anandji's 'Kalicharan' is highlighted by the wonderful 'Yeh Pal Chanchal Kho Na Dena', featuring moogs stabs, great instrumental interludes and a lovely melody; incidentally available in all it's full length, high quality, picturized glory on Mister Naidu's latest Helen compilation. The

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-9544806707378730862010-08-30T23:46:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:08.663-08:00

'Hera Pheri' initially came to my attention due to its title music, Kalyanji Anandji's instrumental reworking of Joe Simon's 'Cleopatra Jones' theme. Both original and copy are fantastic blaxploitation workouts, and the latter is undeniably this album's selling point. That said, I'm very fond of Asha Bhosle's contributions to the soundtrack as well; the upbeat and funky 'Aapka Sarkar Kya Kuchh'

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-84096630974173737882010-08-26T13:47:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:08.750-08:00

Here's a rather good O.P. Nayyar score, on which it's apparent why he was often referred to as the King of Rhythm. All sorts of rhythms. There's not much to dislike on 'Kismat' [review]; highlights include the swing flavoured rock'n'roll number 'One Two Three Baby', the old timey country song 'Lakhon Hain Yahan Dilwale' (featuring, it seems, The Monkees), the tipsily sung lounge track 'Aao

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-87466644655048543932010-08-17T03:23:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:08.842-08:00

For several reasons, 'The Train' [review] is a landmark record. It was the first ever Indian soundtrack album to be released on the Polydor label, ending a decades long near monopoly on the part of the Gramophone Company of India (EMI/HMV). The latter was obviously very annoyed by this intrusion, and in fact counteracted by releasing an EP of cover versions of the film's songs. Unsuccessfully,

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-52512565477782911752010-08-10T01:36:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:08.930-08:00

Here's a great one from Shankar Jaikishan. 'Chhotisi Mulaqat' has the duo doing what I like most about them, mixing lively rock'n'roll, breezy pop and gorgeous melodies. Highlights? Take your pick: The exuberant title track, Asha's super sweet 'Mat Ja Mat Ja', Rafi's jumpy 'Na Mukhda Mod Ke Jao', Lata's beautiful, lounge-tinged 'Jeevan Ke Do Raahe Pe'... and everything in between. Near flawless

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-74255049242565598222010-07-22T02:18:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:09.021-08:00

The intriguingly titled 'Doctor X' is a soundtrack that, to the best of my knowledge, doesn't turn up very often. The same thing goes for the film I think; I can't even find an entry on IMDb, never mind locating clips on YouTube. But it happens to be my favourite Sonik Omi score (admittedly I've only heard a few), featuring a couple of really cool tracks.The overall vibe is upbeat and fun. '

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-2045872321847579312010-07-19T01:17:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:09.110-08:00

Although Naushad isn't among the music directors I actively look for, there are a few of his scores I rate highly. I've posted one of them before; here's another.To my ears, 'Amar' [review] falls into the same general category as 'Detective' and 'Chhalia', full of enchanting melodies, exotic arrangements and old world charm. It's hard to pick highlights, but check out 'Oodi Oodi Chhai Ghata'

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-59159371555015580132010-07-10T07:43:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:09.198-08:00

In my mind, this soundtrack always gets filed next to 'Teesri Manzil'. Maybe it's because I acquired both at around the same time; maybe it's because they're of the same (approximate) vintage and style. Or maybe it's because both are by RD Burman. Yes, Sachin Dev is the credited music director, but Pancham is all over this. And I'm not complaining; 'Jewel Thief' [review] [2] [3] is a charmer

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-66115633222264354702010-07-05T01:37:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:09.292-08:00

Three words: 'Nothing Is Impossible'. I'm almost tempted to leave this write-up at that; I reckon it's what Bappi Lahiri was thinking when scoring the centerpiece of 'Zakhmee'. Years before he became the king of cheesy disco, he took Burmanesque cabaret, garage rock and lounge, threw it all into a pot, mashed it up, turned everything inside out, and proceeded to record the resulting crazyness

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-28672721529207284482010-06-22T11:19:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:09.385-08:00

(The lovely Greta over at MemsaabStory is posting her review of the actual film today. Make sure you head over there; double your fun!)'Zamaane Ko Dikhana Hai' is RD Burman in 80s disco mode; something of an acquired taste. Truth be told, had it been my first meeting with Bollywood soundtracks, this blog wouldn't have existed; I'd never have delved further. More often than not I find Hindi

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-22109730246773474532010-06-15T00:00:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:09.474-08:00

Up until recently, this soundtrack was on my Bollywood want list. Now, after having obtained a copy, I'm not sure why. Not that I dislike 'Salaam Memsaab'; it does have its moments, but it's not really what I'd call an essential Burman score.There's the instrumental of course; they tend to be worthwhile. It's quite long for a change, comprising two very different themes. The first has bongos,

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-47714042483484474162010-06-10T00:43:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:09.564-08:00

Take a look at the above cover. Click on it, view it in full size, and tell me what the hell is going on in that picture, because based on it, 'Jal Bin Machhli Nritya Bin Bijli' looks like one bizarre, demented film. A woman dressed as a cobra, a menacing looking guy in a devil cap, another sporting a swan wig and peacock feathers, and chorus girls in... what, anti-radiation helmets? All

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-73067318983048214242010-06-06T13:15:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:09.658-08:00

   Been a while, sorry about that. Busy days. But here to tide you over until I get back on something approaching a regular schedule are a couple of singles I found in the back of the 7" box. Neither of the 'Sharafat' [review] songs are particularly noteworthy; 'Pehle Na Dekha' is an OK ballad, but forgettable. 'Mere Apne' [review] is a bit more interesting; 'Hal Chal Thik Thak Hai' is chirpy

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-90842927623580579292010-05-11T02:14:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:09.750-08:00

When I first saw the cover of 'Apna Desh' [review], I knew this was a record I needed to own. It took a while to get - copies always seemed to be snapped up right before my eyes - but after a few years my perseverance paid off. Hell, I even bought and watched the film while waiting (capsule review: It goes on and on, and then has a wonderfully camp last quarter) just to see the cover image in

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-14142759308564590582010-05-11T01:08:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:09.853-08:00

This just in, the LP version of 'Nehle Peh Dehlaa'. What I said here then, but with dialogue, an extra qawwali, and all songs are full length. Upgrade at will.Track listing: 1. Asha Bhosle: Main Choron Ki Rani 2. Aziz Nazan Qawwal & Chorus: Sunle Too Binati Meri Haji Ali (Qawwali) 3. Lata Mangeshkar & Kishore Kumar: Sawan Ka Maheena Aagaya 4. Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar & Manna Dey:

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-42488496368240206732010-05-07T02:04:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:09.943-08:00

Another fine effort from the Shah brothers. Peppy and poppy in tone, mostly; check out 'Aaja Ya Aajane De Paas' and 'Do Qadam Tum Bhi Chalo'. And the fab Northern Soul instrumental serving as an intro to 'Yeh Nach Wach Kya Hai'; I kind of wish they'd made it into a separate track. Luckily the subsequent Rafi song is good as well.Curiously, my copy of 'Ek Haseena Do Diwane' is pressed under

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-52609570728475682882010-05-05T02:31:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:10.035-08:00

Kalyanji Anandji again, old style. Predictably, 'Bluff Master's [review] main attraction is the 'Title Music', a fun, jaunty, rockin' dance nummer with Latin flourishes. A couple of the songs deserve mention as well though... 'Jabse Tujhe Jaan Gayi' is high drama with a galloping beat, castanets and lashing whips; 'Ae Dil Ab Kahin Na Ja' has a gorgeous melody and an exotic, atmospheric feel;

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-1825139219421949432010-04-26T13:33:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:10.128-08:00

'April Fool' is a relatively new acquisition; it's an album I never considered an essential purchase (for reasons long forgotten) but then a real cheap copy came my way so I figured, why not?It's not bad actually... while not on par with some of Shankar Jaikishan's great rock'n'roll moments from a year or two down the line, it does contain elements of what was to come: 'Aa Gale Lag Ja' has a

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-50706627652396593122010-04-24T03:13:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:10.214-08:00

As the 10-day Bollywood spree over at the fabulous Anywhere Else But Here Today blog is coming to end, we've joined forces and put together a special compilation to celebrate.Much of its contents will be familiar to regular Third Floor visitors, but note that it includes a couple of exclusives (thumbs up to Memsaab for helping out), in addition to a sneak peek at one I'll be posting in a few

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-85919152103130761782010-04-20T14:39:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:10.302-08:00

Kalyanji Anandji's 'Commander' is one of those highly sought after soundtracks that many collectors are/were willing to shell out a sizable amount for. Myself included at one point, although luckily I managed to keep my cool until a reasonably priced copy came along. So what's all the fuss about? Besides a fantastic looking cover, it's essentially the two electro tracks, 'Itni Jaldi Kya Hai',

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-12040330940171463572010-04-16T01:06:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:10.395-08:00

"And I would rather be anywhere else but here today". Pop music is a universal language. And history's for exploring. Let's celebrate what's out there. The world's your oyster. And pop's your passport. Come on let's go…Music From The Third Floor is proud to be associated with this blog.

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-69515642516725328322010-04-11T14:20:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:10.488-08:00

   Rounding off this week's EP section, here's a pair of nice RD Burman efforts. 'Double Cross' [review] has him in an upbeat poppy mood with four songs that, while hardly his finest are all sprightly and fun enough to get your feet tapping and your soul smiling. 'Main Jhonka Mast Hawa Ka' is my favourite I think (for the weird bits), with honourable mention going to 'Aiyo Aiyo Kahdo Zamane Se',

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-44420555252196619202010-04-09T12:46:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:10.576-08:00

Those of you who have been keeping tabs on the number of soundtracks uploaded on Music From The Third Floor will undoubtedly have noticed that posts will be coming to an end before very long. By the end of 2010 at any rate. That is, unless I acquire more records. And while part of the blog's initial objective was to aid me in downsizing my collection, there is still a handful I'd be eager to get

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-41364345192751763922010-04-08T13:51:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:10.669-08:00

   An even odder pairing, perhaps, and a radical change of pace. 'Shabab' is traditional and low-key; pretty much what I expect from Naushad. There's nothing on it that really sticks out. It's pleasant enough, and 'Jogan Ban Jaoongi' is kind of nice, but in total probably not a record I'll play a lot.Laxmikant Pyarelal's 'Aap Beati' obviously has a more modern sound. But sans any of the stuff I

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-73707319758538145372010-04-05T14:18:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:10.761-08:00

   A bunch of EPs coming up now, having discovered I have quite a few of them left. Pairing might seem (and is) a bit random, but seeing as I've gotten used to posting them in couples... Two fantastic ones to start off with though. 'Priya' is quite rare I think, which is a shame as the first side (at least) is super. 'Pretty Pretty Priya' is fab Beatlesque pop and will be familiar to those who

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-13173170963658441072010-03-29T03:41:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:10.847-08:00

For some reason, I never used to rate 'Anjane Mein' much; however listening to it now I'm thinking it's kind of alright. Both 'O Meri Jaan' and 'Gayi Kaam Se Yeh Ladki' have loads of neat instrumental bits (the singing parts leave me cold though); a nifty mix of east and west. 'Sachchai Ki Ra Men' and 'Jeevan Ke Sab Sukh Paye Too' are typically lovely Lata ballads and 'Dil Ka Rishta Jod Diya

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-81166624883285490392010-03-12T14:37:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:10.935-08:00

Honestly, I don't think there exists a better series of Bollywood compilations than this... now in its 6th volume. So good you almost want to see the films. Right?Click on the picture for printable cover art and annotated track listing, should you so require.And previous volumes are available again as well.Track listing:1. Everybody Dance With Me (from College Girl)2. Theme Music (from Raaste Kaa

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-8637946934565309832010-03-08T12:49:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:11.031-08:00

'Manoranjan' [review] is a great sounding RD Burman score. Arguably sans any very memorable stand-out tracks, but still, a great sounding RD Burman score. See, it's all in the arrangements, the details, the adventurousness. The Moog and close harmony singing in 'Dulhan Maike Chali', the oriental beat kicking off 'Aaya Hoon Main Tujhko Le Jaoonga', the playfulness of the two instrumentals (

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-41358433590872951012010-03-04T13:08:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:11.128-08:00

Sharebee is being rubbish in that they won't let me upload - new post(s) as soon as they sort it, or I find an adequate alternative. Bear with me, yeah?:)

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-71022526228549770282010-02-03T15:20:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:11.218-08:00

Here's one that's been requested a few times lately; quite rightly so as it's a good score. SD Burman composing and RD Burman arranging; frequently a winning combination. And 'Talash' is no exception.'Kitni Akeli' is my current favourite track; a lovely lounge-jazz number sung by Lata. Asha's two contributions are ace as well: 'Mera Kya Sanam' (very reminsicent of some other song... anyone?) is

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-47522801495411257742010-01-28T01:10:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:11.309-08:00

Another oldie. While not quite as good as the below, O.P. Nayyar's 'Mr. & Mrs. 55' [review] is a very worthwhile listen. There's a sweet, romantic vibe running through a lot of it, and what it perhaps lacks in terms of memorable songs, it makes up for in nostalgic charm. My favourite tracks are (predictably) Geeta Dutt's; 'Thandi Hawa Kali Ghata' and 'Nile Aasmani' in particular.Track listing:1.

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-40775196642262263242010-01-24T04:49:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:11.403-08:00

Vintage Shankar Jaikishan, 'Anari' [review] [2] is delightful as can be. Lovely melodies, chirpy choruses, lively accordions, romantic strings, bicycle bells, Lata Mangeshkar... hard to resist really. I believe 'Nineteen Fifty Six' is the famous one, and it's indeed wonderful. But so is 'Ban Ke Panchhi'. And 'Tera Jana'. And at the moment I can't think of anything sweeter than 'Dil Ki Nazar Se.

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-55958808988883913472010-01-20T05:25:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:11.497-08:00

I've mentioned a few times that Kalyanji Anandji scores post-1980 usually leave me cold... well, here's an exception. What's good about 'Haadsaa' is the fact that they seem to be exerting themselves again; trying to transcend what by 1982 had become formulaic, and mostly dull. Meaning better songs and melodies, more subtle/less tacky arrangements, and some pretty ace grooves. Hightlights are

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-82096338073574860052010-01-01T05:27:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:11.593-08:00

One of RD Burman's most famous soundtracks, containing the quintessential Bollywood cabaret number 'Piya Tu Ab To Aja', sung by Asha Bhosle and performed on screen by the incomparable Helen. Song and scene both are awesome; elaborately arranged and staged, catchy, full of subtle (and not so subtle) eroticism - a classic. And a lot of you will know it already.The question is then, how's the rest

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-57059406731515784832009-12-27T12:34:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:11.886-08:00

One more before the end of the year; a worthwhile if uneven Bappi Lahiri score. It's from before his disco period, yet does contain signs of what was to come - especially noticeable on the title track. Both the synth-line at the beginning and the 'I love you' chorus in the middle are from Donna Summer's 'I Feel Love'; to Bappi's credit though, borrowing bits from the now classic electro anthem

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-77640698599173594492009-12-23T14:58:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:11.979-08:00

I'm not sure how much the typically compressed 70s pressing has to do with it, but to me the soundtrack to 'Raaste Kaa Patthar' [review] sounds like a demo; made in a garage. Albeit a large one, to fit the orchestra, but still. There's a rawness to it that I don't hear on most other Bollywood albums - and it's all the better for it. It sounds dramatic, loud, distorted, full of jagged, jerky

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-346865198613440832009-12-20T04:31:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:12.071-08:00

There was a time, when Bollywood music was doing the rounds in the trendiest of western clubs, that any late 70s/early 80s Kalyanji Anandji soundtrack with the slightest hint of disco or funk inevitably would be hyped as 'ultimate killer masterpiece', or something similar to the same effect. A few times I fell for it. Like when I bought 'Laawaris'.There's nothing out of the ordinary on this. Most

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-40919444435993944082009-12-15T01:22:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:12.160-08:00

   At the time of writing, tattered copies of these 2 EPs (along with an admittedly sought after single from 'Apradh') are up for grabs on eBay. Starting bid? A measly US$320.Call me funny, but I find that kind of ridiculous. Therefore:2 MEGA RARE RAHUL DEV BURMAN SOUNDTRACKS!8 PRE-RECORDED SONGS VALUED AT US$32 (MIN.) EACH!FREE FOR THE TAKING!!And take them you should, as both 'Raton

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-73912060908669620062009-12-13T14:05:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:12.251-08:00

This 1974 effort is a companion piece of sorts to 'Jawani Diwani' from a couple of years earlier. Both films involve the same producer, director and lead actors, and there seem to be recurring characters... I'll let others either confirm or dismiss any direct thread between the two though. Because all that concerns us here is that both scores are by the same musical genius, and that the 'Dil

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-74699381075176437482009-12-09T03:52:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:12.342-08:00

Getting this show back on the road: A week of RD Burman soundtracks, starting with 'Khel Khel Mein' from 1974. Increasingly though, after 40-something RD scores previously posted, the problem arises of what to write that I haven't already; I worry that my commentary is becoming redundant. Oh well... this particular effort is playfully poppy; nothing as outrageously 'out there' as Burman often

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-14039793695380167102009-11-10T13:52:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:12.438-08:00

While I'm not usually a fan of Ravi, here is one of his I'm prepared to give a few spins. 'Ankhen' is a spy film I think... the score isn't exactly overflowing with the sound and feel of international espionage (whatever that is), but it does include two great Lata Mangeshkar songs; the sweet and tuneful 'Milti Hai Zindagi Men' and the atmospheric 'Gairon Pe Karam'. I keep coming back to both.'

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-66018290131912105742009-11-04T15:57:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:12.530-08:00

Pre-funk Kalyanji Anandji. And it's a keeper. There's not much for the sample-hungry beatheads on this one, simply a collection of great songs, for listening, mostly. Admittedly it's the (ubiquitous) jazzy cabaret number ('Hello Hello') that initially drew me to 'Ek Shriman Ek Shrimati' [review]; however Lata & Rafi's 'Jeevan Path Par' is an equal contender for best track. A lovely, melodious

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-3719370351420749332009-11-01T05:37:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:12.696-08:00

I've mentioned earlier that Laxmikant Pyarelal scores from the early 70s (well, any era really) could go either way. A lot of them leave me cold, but here's one I like a lot. 'Man Mandir' has a full pot of good songs on offer, to pick and choose. Favourites? The lovely 'Ae Meri Ankhon Ke Pahle Sapne' (either version) and the the quirky 'Kahiye Ji Kya Loge'. But don't sleep on the rest; it's a

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-42441140581528287432009-10-26T04:57:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:12.790-08:00

They just keep on coming... Another fine (if not essential) late 70s Burman effort. Three catchy easy-pop tracks ('Dil Men Jo Mere', 'Dekho Mera Jaadoo', 'Jeevan Ke Har Mod') and a cool instrumental (dramatic at first, then light and breezy) make 'Jhoota Kahin Ka' a very listenable soundtrack. And who other than RD begins an album with a Woody Woodpecker impression?Track listing:1. Kishore Kumar,

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-33004978109607653742009-10-20T05:32:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:12.881-08:00

A RD Burman soundtrack from the late 70s that's not funky or full of beats, yet I still like it; yup, entirely possible. 'Hamaare Tumhare' is sweet, good natured and happy sounding from start to finish, and thus hard not to enjoy. Most of the songs are almost old-fashioned in tone, charmingly so, as if RD was updating a soundtrack from the 50s (probably not the case though). Listen to 'Ham Aur

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-34304926824364086992009-10-16T06:31:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:12.973-08:00

One more before the weekend; another late-period Sachin Dev Burman. And it's wonderful. 'Yeh Kaisa Sur Mandir' (for perfectly defining Bollywood's sitar & strings formula), 'Jaa Jaa Jaa' (for the bossa-tinged rhythm and dramatic breaks), 'Pyase Do Badan' (for its sexy seductiveness) and 'Bye Bye Miss' (for being fun and poppy with Shankar Jaikishan tendencies) are my favourites here - but there

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-41410225617055540642009-10-14T04:17:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:13.069-08:00

I have a soft spot for 'Jimmy Aaja'. It's quite probable though, that this is due to me liking M.I.A. and having heard her reworking of the song prior to the original. Bappi's is cheesy as hell, but memorable and kind of fun.Elsewhere... well, 'Disco Dancer' [review] [2] is a bit of a weird one. The music is Bappi Lahiri at his best, or worst, depending on whether or not you like his 80s disco

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-31345179691454337862009-10-12T04:28:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:13.161-08:00

   Two more Kalyanji Anandji EPs; nice ones to boot. 'Hum Tum Aur Woh' includes 'Tu Milale Aaj Nigahen' and 'Husn Agar Zid Pe Aa Jae', uptempo songs that, while not spectacular, both have a good feel to them. 'Kathputli' (my preferred of the two) is highlighted by the lovely 'Tum Jo Hansage Duniya Hansegi' and Asha's cabaret number (or so I'd imagine; I've not seen the film) 'Jeena Kaisa Pyar

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-14227135347977834682009-10-03T07:03:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:13.252-08:00

The fifth compilation of recent Third Floor choice cuts. Cool cabaret numbers, zany instrumentals, gorgeous psychedelic ballads, chirpy pop and a bit of funk; Bollywood style. Grab it quick though, as trolls apparently patrol these waters; previous volumes are being removed from a lot of the file hosts.Track listing:1. Title Music (from Dushmun)2. Leja Leja Leja Mera Dil (from An Evening In Paris

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-89769613577725973512009-09-23T10:22:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:13.346-08:00

This one I originally had planned for later, but as it's been requested quite a few times, and I was listening to it anyway the other night, I felt like pushing it forward. So here's Kalyanji Anandji's 'Professor Pyarelal'.Most of it is pretty much as expected, considering the vintage (and a composing duo just past their prime); I don't find any of the songs particularly noteworthy. They're

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-28596940832380763972009-09-21T03:29:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:13.442-08:00

And while we're on the subject of mixed feelings... The arguably best track on 'Roti Kapada Aur Makaan' [review] has a great musical arrangement; dark, brooding, intensely dramatic; an ominous, booming piano and soaring strings. What spoils 'Aur Nahin Bus Aur Nahin' for me though, is the singing. Not a bad word about Mahendra Kapoor as such, but his voice here is way too predominant, too loud,

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-76553488951969981652009-09-17T13:39:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:13.531-08:00

'Samadhi' I'm definitely on the fence about... half the time I listen to it I think it's ace, the other half it does nothing for me. Tracks such as Bangle Ke Peechhe, 'O Yara Yara' and 'Jan-E-Janan' are all probably good songs, very uptempo, which I like, but I keep getting the feeling they're lacking in some respect. Not funky or Western sounding enough maybe? Nah. I'm not that one-tracked, am I

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-52961186715709878492009-09-10T12:18:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:13.625-08:00

Been meaning to blog about this for ages, but it's kept slipping my mind...A while back, some of us were discussing in the comments to some post or other the lack of decent Helen collections on DVD, and how great it would be if someone could compile one. Well now (as I'm sure a lot of you have discovered already), someone has. Over at The Bollywood DVD Restoration Project, the very wonderful

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-69606055268743532622009-09-09T23:53:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:13.720-08:00

According to the sleeve, Shankar Jaikishan's brief for this one was that "the music of this film had to be the expressive parallel of the central character's restlessness and hidden yearnings". I don't know if they succeeded or not as I've not seen the film. Unfortunately, there's nothing here that makes me want to.It's mostly traditional/classical sounding, without much in the way of attention

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-38760306755471335252009-09-02T05:35:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:13.820-08:00

One killer instrumental... and that, essentially, is all there is of much worth on 'Aandhi'. All the songs here are a bit dull; not really up to standard. Or at least not up to my expectations. They're very high when it comes to RD Burman. 'Music' however, ah, now that's something. Yes, it sounds like it was made a decade earlier (RD tripping in Haight-Ashbury) but it's nevertheless awesome.

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-32295682600345083752009-08-26T14:34:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:13.911-08:00

A short and sweet oldie from the King of Rhythm, O.P. Nayyar. (I had meant to post it last week but noticed at the last minute there were glitches in the initial rip. Hopefully it's OK now). There's nothing on 'Tumsa Nahin Dekha' that amazes me in a big way, but for vintage sounding songs and nice rhythms, you could do a lot worse. Best track is the bouncy 'Aaye Hain Door Se', with 'Jawanian Yeh

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-82806316071475548302009-08-18T05:55:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:14.000-08:00

Here's a good one. 'Rafoo Chakkar' is primarily sought after for its funky instrumental, on which Kalyanji Anandji took Henri Mancini's theme from 'The Thief Who Came To Dinner' and fused it with the sound of Isaac Hayes' 'Theme from Shaft'. The result is a Bollywood classic.I once received an email from a guy wondering about the rest of the soundtrack. He'd downloaded it via iTunes and wasn't

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-40870301384361355052009-08-04T15:35:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:14.093-08:00

Remaining in Paris, on what I think is one of SD Burman's last scores. I might have bought 'Barood' in part due to the packaging; a lovely multifold cover (reminiscent of, if not quite as elaborate as the original pressing of 'Shalimar') and custom inner-sleeve. The latter features the press shot of Shoma Anand used in the current blog header btw. I don't find the music very exciting though...

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-16682415615180036692009-08-03T13:10:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:14.184-08:00

This one's marred by rubbish (horribly distorted) sound as well, damnit. Although I'm a bit on the fence in regards to 'An Evening In Paris' [review] [2]; I keep thinking I should like it a lot as it's Shankar Jaikishan in their good period, there's plenty of rock'n'roll, Paris... the problem is I'm not able to find many strong melodies to latch on to.OK, the title track is quite good, and 'Leja

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-906676030198779222009-07-30T05:09:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:14.274-08:00

Two instrumentals highlight 'Heera Panna'. The first is groovy easy-funk featuring wordless vocals from Usha Iyer/Uthup (I'm guessing), the second is no holds barred pysch-jazz with a relentless conga beat, screaming moogs and a whole lotta noise; tribal, raw, and brilliant. While quite a few Bollywood instrumentals of the era sounded like freak-out music, this is the only one I'm aware of

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-51558060706481176912009-06-19T04:02:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:14.365-08:00

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-18539516004832406272009-06-02T05:54:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:14.455-08:00

According to Stella at Parties, Sarees and Melodies, 'Leader' was something of a transitional work for Naushad, representing a bridge between the classic, folk-based soundtracks of the 50s and earlier, and the modern jazz & beat based sounds of the 60s and beyond. And that it thus divided its audience. It's certainly worth attention though, with interesting going-ons on both sides of the divide.

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-6126476099373570552009-05-22T03:33:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:14.546-08:00

I seem to be on a mediocre streak at the moment... which always worries me as newcomers to the blog might think it dull. (Tell them it's not!) Another quickie: 'Shor' is hardly among Laxmikant Pyarelal's finest, but it does have its moments. A pleasant vibe throughout; listen to the chirpy 'Shehnai Baje Ne Baje', as well as 'Ek Pyar Ka Nagma Hai' with its violin intro and soft rolling rhythm -

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-5655681670295844432009-05-13T05:56:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:14.636-08:00

Another score with a great instrumental, and not very much else. 'Dushmun' [review] has loads of dialogue, and songs that are mostly nondescript and forgettable; 'Main Ne Dekha Tu Ne Dekha' being only a tad more interesting than the rest. 'Title Music' is what's worth the price of admission. It sounds a bit like Ennio Morricone guesting on the 'Dharmatma' soundtrack; a rolling rhythm, hypnotic

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-68778676422905074762009-04-24T03:55:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:14.730-08:00

   Two more that sound rubbish; these even after cleaning. Bugger all you eBayers who equate dragged-through-gravel looking vinyl with EX+. I considered not posting them, but decided to go ahead, for reference if nothing else. Neither appear to be essential Burman though; much of what I said below also goes for 'Kaala Sona' and 'Warrant'. The only track really worth noting is Asha's cabaret

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-36655245067841460772009-04-20T06:00:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:14.818-08:00

   Two scratched records that I've managed to make sound almost passable with clean-up software, but there might be a glitch or two somewhere along the way. If these are great soundtracks, and looking at the composer and vintage you'd think they would be, then they picked the wrong tracks for the EPs. Both records are dull and unremarkable, sans the magic RD Burman is capable of. 'Gham Hai Kisi

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-10353103123781343742009-04-14T05:07:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:14.910-08:00

'Abdullah' might have been a better score had they left out the singing. Which I know sounds harsh, considering it features the likes of Asha, Lata, Rafi and Kishore. However their efforts here are forgetable, and if not for the inventiveness and distinctiveness of RD Burman's arrangements (much more than his compositions), this would be a bland affair. 'Dance Music' is arguably (and predictably)

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-49257319350389417112009-03-12T05:29:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:15.016-08:00

Unsurprisingly, it's the cabaret number that highlights this otherwise not very interesting score from Sonik Omi. 'Aag Men Jale Jawani' is full of bounce and rich in detail, falling somewhere between the jazzy rock'n'roll of 60s' Shankar Jaikishan, and RD Burman's later sonic adventurousness. An excellent track.None of the other songs are very memorable, and the arrangements fail to excite me.

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-82455116121788720952009-03-10T06:30:00.000-07:002012-01-15T11:27:15.116-08:00

'Sahib, Bibi Aur Gulam' [review]: A nice one from Hemant Kumar; old school, charming, sweet. And I like Geeta Dutt. I don't have a lot featuring her, but what I do is generally lovely. 'Piya Aiso Jiya Men' (especially) and 'Na Jao Saiyan Chhod Ke Baiyan' are no exceptions. (Capsule review, designed to facilitate catching up on posting.)Track listing:1. Title Music2. Asha Bhosle: Bhanwara Bada

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-77723802755819484112009-02-18T06:40:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:15.214-08:00

I really like 'Jhuk Gaya Aasman'. Lots of good stuff, not necessarily spectacular, but with a fun feel throughout. 'Unse Milee Nazar' is happy sounding pop'n'roll (sung by Lata for a change), 'Kisiki Jaan Lete Hain' is the energetic cabaret number (Asha and Helen, natch), 'Sacha Hai Pyar' has a nostalgic sounding melody with a bit of a Parisian feel, 'Meri Ankhon Ki Nindiya' is essentially

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-81642714342162253172009-02-08T03:48:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:15.317-08:00

When I first started acquiring Bollywood soundtracks, upon realizing that they could be real patchy affairs, and acknowledging that there was no way I'd be able to remember Hindi song titles, I used to stick Post-it notes on them, jotting down which (if any) tracks would be worth coming back to.The note on the cover of 'Téré Méré Sapné' [review] says "none". Consequently I hadn't played it more

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-850138012188691687.post-70893581794761410972009-02-07T13:26:00.000-08:002012-01-15T11:27:15.407-08:00

I blame blaxploitation.com for this one. One of my favourite websites of yore, their list and capsule reviews of funky soundtracks was a great source of inspiration as well as shopping guide, and a 4 out of 5 rating is what induced me to buy it. Most of the time they could be counted on. Not always though. 'Badle Ki Aag' isn't very good. 'Jawani Men Aate Hain Daur Char', the disco selling-point

Amelia Swhizzagershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14898632957421026035noreply@blogger.com0