Radio Sargam Music Review: Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena (2005)

Producer: Pritish Nandy Communications
Director: Suparn Verma
Cast: Fardeen Khan, Koena Mitra, Kay Kay Menon, Rohit Roy and Gulshan Grover
Music: Pritam
Lyrics: Various
Singers: Kunal Ganjawala, Sunidhi Chauhan, Sonu Nigam, Shaan and Sukhwinder Singh
Audio: T-Series
Songs: 10

1) Ishq Hai Jhootha (Kunal Ganjawala and Sunidhi Chauhan)
The soundtrack to Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena (starring Fardeen Khan and Koena Mitra) begins with a bubbly number, ‘Ishq Hai Jhootha’. Kunal Ganjawala and Sunidhi Chauhan provide the vocals, which they both sing with style and ease. This foot tapping track features some rap sections, which are fairly catchy. Mayur Puri's lyrics go well with the fast paced theme of the song. Since Pritam is there to compose the tune, you are assured of a catchy piece of music. A nippy start to the album.
Rating: 8.5/10

2) Ishq Hai Jhootha – Remix Version
It’s now become the trend to feature remix versions of the originals on Bollywood soundtracks. Ishq Hai Jhootha's remix has some electrifying beats. Arranged by Jatin Sharma, this has the potential to lure younger listeners.
Rating: 8/10

3) Ankhiyaan Na Marr (Sunidhi Chauhan)
It’s time for the item number now. ‘Ankhiyaan Na Marr’ is set in a club situation and is a mixture of Punjabi and western beats. Item queen Sunidhi Chauhan does the job with her unique vocals and attracts the listener instantly. Veteran Dev Kohli pens captivating lyrics, which are complimented well by Pritam's composition. A spellbinding number.
Rating: 7.5/10

4) Ankhiyaan Na Marr – Remix Version
This remix arranged by Bunty Rajput is not appealing. It is a waste, like the majority of remixes churned out these days in each and every film soundtrack.
Rating: 1/10

5) Jal Jal Ke Dhuan (Sonu Nigam)
Jal Jal Ke Dhuan is the first romantic song of the soundtrack. Sung by Sonu Nigam, who chips in luminously. A soulful love number, it carries the gorgeous romantic lyrics notated by Amitabh Verma, which are used good headedly to score the tunes on. Full marks to Pritam for his composition. A sure shot winner.
Rating: 8.5/10

6) Jal Jal Ke Dhuan – Remix Version
Another bland remix. This simply gets the listener bored! Bunty Rajput totally disappoints with his remix arrangement.
Rating: 1/10

7) Yaroon (Sonu Nigam and Shaan)
‘Yaroon’ is a pulsating and modern track. Rendered by Sonu and Shaan, it has an urban feel. Both the vocalists chime in actively and impress you fully. Shaan and Mayur Puri jot down the lyrics with much gusto. Pritam excels in the music assignment while scoring thrilling composition.
Rating: 8/10

8) Yaroon – Repeat Version
Thankfully this remix is better than the previous ones and holds some appeal.
Rating: 7.5/10

9) Jhoom (Suzzane D’Mello)
Suzzane D’Mello sings this ballad very well. She is sometimes called 'the next Alisha Chinoy'. Shabbir Ahmed writes perfect lyrics keeping in mind the theme of the track. Pritam manages the western mode exceptionally well. This is worth repeated listens.
Rating: 9.5/10

10) Nasha Nasha (Sukhwinder Singh)
The concluding number, ‘Nasha Nasha’ is pocketed by Sukhiwnder Singh who makes it a treat along with the musician Pritam who composes nice tunes. The song is worthy in terms of lyrics (written by Subrat Sinha) as well. A good way to finish this exciting soundtrackk.
Rating: 8/10

Overall:
Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena is a fast paced, electrifying and an urban album. Those who seek rocking stuff to enjoy, EKEH is the one for them. Some of the tracks may even fetch awards for Pritam and the singers at this year’s awards functions.
Overall Rating: 8.5/10

REVIEWED BY GOHER IQBAL PUNN (Bollywood Analyst)