By Ruchika Kher
Film: “Karthik Calling Karthik”; Music Director: Shankar Mahadevan-Ehsaan Noorani-Loy Mendonca; Lyricist: Javed Akhtar; Singers: Loy, Shankar, Clinton Cerejo, Malika Singh, KK, Kailash Kher, Alyssa Mendonsa, Suraj Jagan and Caralisa Monteiro ; Rating: ***

Composer trio Shankar-Ehsaan-loy are known for their versatility and quality work. In “Karthik Calling Karthik” too the trio has done a commendable job by making melodious numbers.

The album boasts of six originals and three remixes.

The soundtrack starts with “Hey ya!”, crooned by Clinton Cerejo, Shankar and Loy. The love song has soft orchestration and free flowing vocals. The chirpy track also includes English lyrics. It is neither bad nor brilliant.

The song also has a remixed version, which has more beats and is faster.

Next is another romantic and upbeat track “Uff teri adaa” that has Shankar and Alyssa Mendonsa behind the mike. The song has a danceable tune, yet it is easy on the ear. Shankar’s classical style and Alyssa’s deep voice blend well. However, the lyrics are not very impressive.

This song too boasts of a remixed version that can be a hit at DJ consoles.

“Jaane ye kya hua” is another soft love ballad, sung in a different way by KK. The lilting melody touches the heart instantly and KK’s voice creates a place in the listener’s mind. A good composition.

It is followed up by “Kaisi hai ye udaasi”, which is the best song of the soundtrack. Sung by Kailash Kher and Sukanya Purkayastha, the number is melodious and Kailash’s singing is completely soul-stirring. The slow song with a wonderful composition tugs at your heartstrings.

Then there is the title track of the film with vocals by Suraj Jagan, Shankar, Caralisa Monteiro and Malika Singh. A cocktail of English and Hindi lyrics, the mood of the song is dark. It is an average number.

The song also has a “Karthik Calling Karthik” theme remix attached to it. It has been compiled by Delhi-based fusion band Midival Punditz and Karsh Kale.

Next is an instrumental piece called “Kathik 2.0″ by Midival Punditz and Karsh Kale. The song that offers heavy percussion and brings out a rock feel ends with a dial tone. The edgy musical piece is something to look forward to.

On the whole the album is a mix of good and average songs. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy have not disappointed.