Reviewed by Mandeep Bahra
mandeep@indolink.com

When the likes of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Anu Malik and Bally Sagoo get together, one expects the sky! However, each one of them has pulled this soundtrack in a different direction. As a result the songs have a jarring effect. The arrangements by Amar Haldipur (of Amar-Utpal fame) are the glue that holds this soundtrack together! Amar should be credited on the front cover of the album and not just in small print on the back.

There are three highlights on this album, the first of which is "Ishq Da Rutba". NFAK's enthusiastic rendition and composition, coupled with Amar's rhythmic arrangement guarantees the listener's enjoyment.

The heavy beats of "Teri Yaad" are remarkably creative and Udit Narayan elevates the song further with his skillful mastering of NFAK's composition. This song has apparently been picturised by pop video director, Ken Ghosh, who has "Made In India", among others, to his credit.

The third highlight is once again composed by NFAK and rendered brilliantly by Udit Narayan. "Baha Na Aansoo" exhibits a touch of melancholy but is still very enjoyable.

"Gham Hai Ya Khushi" is a real disappointment. Alka Yagnik has great trouble with NFAK's meandering notes resulting in a disastrous rendition. The tune is not exactly awe-inspiring and Alka's weak vocals don't help!

"O Rabba" is much better. NFAK abandons Amar Haldipur for this number and allows Bally Sagoo to arrange the music for this composition. Bally creates his trademark fusion of bhangra and heavy bass rhythm, while Jayshree Shivram gives an okay rendition. Jayshree showed some promise when I first heard her sing on the R.D.Burman soundtrack RAMA-O-RAMA back in 1988. However, her voice hasn't evolved much in the ten years since, and she still sounds like a newcomer.

If NFAK can work with another arranger, then Amar Haldipur can work with another composer! Anu Malik has composed "Wallah Yeh Ladki" which has Udit Narayan and Abhijeet singing to a 60's jive beat. The lyrics are nothing special (you can probably guess what the song is about from the obvious title). Anu's composition incorporates strains from the 70's number, "Seasons In The Sun" - EEEEK! Anu must have an interesting record collection! Amar Haldipur's arrangement resembles his earlier work in the song "Maria Sun Le Mera Haal" from AAJA MERI JAAN.

KARTOOS probably won't disappoint Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan fans. However, a collaboration of this much talent should have yielded more fruit!