Singers: Monali Thakur, Amitabh Bhattacharya, Mohan Kanan, Swanand Kirkire, Amit Trivedi, and Shilpa Rao
Rating: ***1/2
The music of director Vikramaditya Motwane's "Lootera" is like a breath of fresh air. With six tracks in its kitty, the album has been composed by Amit Trivedi with time and patience. Not for once does the music go out of tune.
"Sawaar loon" opens the album. Sung by Monali Thakur, the song becomes more interesting as it progresses. Melodious and rhythmic, it talks about a girl's dreams. The composer tries to break away from the usual music by using a lot of different instruments. The lyrics weave a melodious story.
Next is "Ankahee", sung by Amitabh Bhattacharya in a beautiful, magical way. The song can be enjoyed best while alone. There is no glamour in the song and it touches the listener in a romantic way.
"Shikayatein" brings a sense of freedom. The duet by Mohan Kanan and Amitabh Bhattacharya brings novelty in the music scene. The chorus has been giving a lot of attention and space in the song and the drums join in to make it foot-tapping.
Amitabh and Swanand Kirkire give a regional and classic touch to the next track, "Monta re". Infused with Bengali lyrics, the song talks about an innocent heart which has lost its way. An interesting composition.
Amit Trivedi goes behind the mike for "Zinda", a song that has mass appeal as it talks about melancholy in a very poetic and beautiful way. It has a strong guitar riff, which brings passion to the song. Towards the end, it turns grandiose with the music going to a higher notch.
The last song in the album is the romantic "Manmarziya". Sung by Shilpa Rao, Amitabh and Amit, the romance is toned down in the song. A soothing track, it does not lack in melody.
"Lootera" has fine compositions. No item numbers, no discotheque peppy tracks. It is a relaxed compilation of songs. It may not appeal to those looking for upbeat numbers, but it finds a connect with lovers of soft and romantic music. All the songs are high on imagination and have a story to tell. Trivedi meets the expectations of his fans.