Reviewed by Manish Dhamija
manish@indolink.com

The first track is reminiscent of "Odh Li Chunariya" even to the point that it's titled "Teri Chunariya". The pace is very similar also, beginning slow and picking up throughout the course of the song. Sung by Kumar Sanu and Alka Yagnik, it is a very attractive duet, and I will not be surprised if it reaches the top of charts very soon. Both singers are in top form, especially Kumar Sanu whose voice earlier was being sidetracked by a nasal problem. And Alka is, well, Alka - sweetly perfect.

Following "Teri Chunariya" is "Hata Sawan Ki Ghata" with the first time duo Babul Supriyo and Jaspinder Narula. Supriyo can easily pass as a Sanu clone in this song as his voice sounds wickedly similar. Jaspinder Narula does her best with this composition that boasts of a lover for her "raajkumar". Her voice is probably well suited for Rani Mukherjee as Rani's voice is very deep and hoarse. With the fast pace of the song and its "fun" lyrics, the song would seem better suited for the likes of Govinda. But, the hero of the film is not Govinda, but Arbaaz and Salman Khan, who I'm sure will do well in carrying out the dance steps to this song.

"Hello Brother" - the title track sung by Kamal Khan, Sonu Nigam, and Jaspinder Narula is the third track of the album. How much can be said about this track, especially in reference to lyrics? The music is upbeat and has the feel of a discotheque setting. Sonu is mind-blowing as always, especially with the way he takes advantage of his vocal range. Jaspinder is not far behind and keeps the song moving. And, Kamal Khan is the perfect companion to the two singers. He does his best to keep up with the other two's vocal capabilities. After a while, it becomes slightly difficult to differentiate between Khan's and Nigam's voices. And for Punjabi lovers, there is a Punjabi interlude with Nigam, making this the third Punjabi duet with Nigam and Narula after "Ankhiyon Se Goli Maare" and "Balle Balle". Unfortunately, the song's ending is ruined by Salman's voice saying "What's up brother?" Sorry Sallu fans, the ending is unnecessary.

The album slows down a bit with "Chupke Se Koi", sung by Udit Narayan and Alka Yagnik. Although it is no "Ek Ladki Ko Dekha", it is a nice song with an attractive beat and suitable lyrics. The two singers are at their best as always. Ironically, the music sounds as if it were composed by Jatin-Lalit instead of Himesh Reshammiya.

Sonu Nigam reappears with Hema Sardesai this time in "Area Ka Hero Hoon". The song is below average mainly due to its lyrics which are nonsensical and pointless. Again, it sounds like leftovers from a Govinda-Karisma or Govinda-Raveena film. At least, "Hata Sawan Ki Ghata" was catchy. This song is 'fast-forward-worthy'. The only noteworthy aspect of the song are the singers, who do their best job with the innane lyrics.

The sixth track is an instrumental piece by Yusaf Khan and is obviously named "The Theme of Hello Brother". The music is nice, but does not seem to fit the rest of the album's pace. It is comparatively slower and sober and a direct contrast to the upbeat, "Have Fun" mood of the other tracks. For some odd reason, it seems like it's desperately trying to create another "Theme of Rangeela" or "Thump of Daud". Nice attempt, but no Rahman instrumental masterpiece.

"Chandi Ki Daal Par" - the final song of the album, sung by Alka Yagnik and Salman Khan (!). Yes...after Aamir Khan, it seems Sallu bhai is trying for another "Aati Kya Khandala". And, the result: competent! Salman's voice is unique and he does a competent job, but, sorry Salman's fiance wannabes, he is no Udit, Sonu, or Sukhwinder. His voice suits the mood of the song - yet another upbeat, ched-chad song. The tune is catchy and the lyrics average. But, overall, not a disappointment. Congrats to Salman who makes a commendable first effort, even though it sounds like his voice is struggling to keep up with Alka. Unfortunately, I don't forsee his name in the Filmfare nominations next year for Best Male Playback Singer as Aamir was in last year's nominations for Ghulam.

If you buy the CD for this album, it features remixed versions of Teri Chunariya, Hello Brother, Chupke Se Koi, and Hata Sawan Ki Ghata. Being no huge remix fan, I didn't feel comfortable reviewing them. But, being that the songs are catchy, I don't see the remixes being too horrible.

Of course, the original is probably always better. Also, TIPS gives away a free CD of Salman Khan hits, which features songs from the recent Biwi No. 1 to last year's Jab Pyar Kisise Se Hota Hai to way-back-when's Andaz Apna Apna and Patthar Ke Phool. All of these added attractions, in addition to the CD's very attractive cover, make this album a very worthwhile buy for all Hindi film music lovers.