A.R. Rahman goes behind the mike for the title track “Dil Bechara” which carries a simple tune. Written by Amitabh Bhattacharya, who reunites with the maestro, after ‘Lekar Hum Deewana Dil’ (2014), the orchestral arrangements overpower the tune but Rahman’s voice remains the highlight. The short duration (2m43s) leaves listeners wanting for more but its abrupt ending is a disappointment. While this track was not supposed to be the title track as the movie was earlier titled ‘Kizie Aur Mazzie’, the soundtrack starts with a slow-paced song which is not spectacular. “Friendzone” is the remixed version but adds nothing new to the proceedings.
On the other hand, “Mera Naam Kizzie” alongside Poorvi Koutish is a fun-loving number. Aditya Narayan nails it. Even though the lyrics are not up to the mark, it still leaves a smile on one’s face. A lot more is being expected from Rahman and such sugar-coated tracks do not have a long shelf life.
Shreya Ghoshal and Mohit Chauhan – a dependable duo joins the soundtrack for “Taare Ginn” which is orchestrally vibrant for a couple of reasons. Firstly, both voices add a lot of texture to this tune – which does not sound from Rahman’s repertoire. Secondly, the tune is unpredictable. What’s more, the song is very pleasing to the ears.
“Maskhari” reunites the talented Sunidhi Chauhan and Hriday Gattani. The latter starts off the song with a lot of gusto and then he is immediately joined by Sunidhi, who brings some much enthusiasm. A happy song – with regular instrumental (mandolin, saz and banjo) interludes. “Maskhari” is not the most original song but both singers contribute so much to its success. All in all, Rahman makes the most of the solo violin, charango and flute. The song is at par with earlier tracks composed in ‘Tamasha’ (2015).
An expert in handling romantic tracks – Arijit Singh, alongside Indo-Canadian singer Shashaa Tirupati, begin “Khulke Jeene Ka”– which contains a long ‘mukhda’ from the ’90s. Amitabh Bhattacharya’s lyrics fall short of expectations. Instruments such as the guitar, ukulele and flute are widely used to enhance this song but overall, despite its beautiful arrangements, both singers are clearly wasted. The track has a good tempo but it runs out of steam.
“Main Tumhara” is clearly the best song of the soundtrack. Jonita Gandhi and Hriday Gattani pour all their heart into rendering this slow-paced track, full of emotions. The flute pieces embellish the tune.
“Afreeda” works mostly for its rhythmic Middle-Eastern tune and energetic singing by Sanaa Moussa and Raja Kumari. The guitar portions are greatly executed. “The Horizon of Saudade” is a dreamy instrumental piece, true to Rahman’s standards. The solo violin and guitar pieces take the centre stage.
‘Dil Bechara’ is an average soundtrack with wonderful arrangements by Rahman because most of the tunes seem to be composed in a hurry and carry a ’90s and South Indian flavour. Lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya is adequate but not poignant. Music lovers were expecting more. “Main Tumhara” is a must-listen.
Rating: 2.5/5
