By Aditi Chandra
Film: "Queen"; Composer: Amit Trivedi; Singers: Labh Janjua, Sonu Kakkad, Neha Kakkad, Amit Trivedi, Shefali Alvares, Nikhil D'souza, Arijit Singh, Nandini Srikar, Mohan Kanan, and Rupesh Kumar Ram; Rating: ****
Directed by Vikas Bahl, "Queen", featuring Kangana Ranaut in the title role, shows her journey of rediscovering her own identity while alone on her honeymoon. The movie also features Rajkummar Rao and Lisa Haydon.
The album consists of eight tracks. Each song has its own identity, thanks to Amit Trivedi's beautiful composition and simple yet expressive lyrics by Anvita Dutt.
"London thumakda" starts the album on a very energetic note. Sung by Labh Janjua, Sonu and Neha Kakkad, it will surely make listeners groove a bit. The quirky lyrics, mixed with the right beat, will make it a must play at the next wedding season.
"Badra bahaar", sung by Amit Trivedi, is next in line. The manner of its rendition reminds one of "Nayan tarse" from "Dev D", while the use of guitar and occasional 'veena' makes it captivating.
It is followed by "O gujariya". A very urban duet, sung by Shefali Alvares and Nikhil D'souza, it is a very upbeat party track. An apt song for youth.
Fourth song is Arijit Singh's "Taake jhanke". Singh, known for creating romantic songs, takes a different route with the chirpy number, which is funnier, happier and expressive.
"Jugni (Queen)" follows. Another song by singer Trivedi, it has meaningful lyrics and the ability to grow on the listeners.
Nandini Srikar has crooned "Harjaiyaan". Her voice infused with the right blend of musical instruments takes the listeners to a different level. Though the singer's voice has an urban touch, the music is earthy and the contrast plays the trick.
Next is "Kinare" by Mohan Kanan. A very expressive and poetic number, it has the sound of trumpet and sitar and has the ability to strike the right chord. If you are a dreamer, take a journey with the song.
Rupesh Kumar Ram's "Ranjha (Queen)", a short Punjabi piece with minimal music, wraps up the album.
Variety is the highlight of the album. It offers a song for every mood and taste. The album has an urban touch, but Trivedi has kept it earthy to match the theme of the movie.