Girish Wankhede | mumbai@bollywoodtown.in
Salman Khan and Eid have become synonymous over the years, with the superstar consistently delivering box office hits during this festive season. This year, however, the music of Sikandar’ seems to fall short of the extraordinary standards typically associated with Khan’s films. While the album features four songs that cater to a wide audience, they lack the infectious energy and memorable hooks that have defined Khan’s previous musical offerings.
The album kicks off with Zohrajabeen, a track sung by Nakash Aziz and Dev Negi, featuring rap by Mellow D. This song pays homage to traditional sounds while attempting to blend contemporary elements. The lyrics, penned by Samir Anjaan and Danish Sabri, are catchy, and the rap section written by Mellow D adds a modern twist. Yet, despite its vibrant beats and well-executed composition, the song feels somewhat formulaic. It adheres to a conventional structure that, while pleasant, lacks the innovative spark that could elevate it to a memorable status. The traditional beats are enjoyable, but they don’t push any boundaries, leaving the listener wanting more.
Next up is Bum Bum Bhole’, a Holi-themed track that aims to capture the festive spirit. Unfortunately, the lyrics fall flat, offering clichés that don’t resonate with the excitement of the occasion. Lines like “Holi se nikli hai mastano ki toli” sound overly familiar and lack the creativity one would expect from a major film’s soundtrack.
While the vocal performances by Shaan, Dev Negi and Antara Mitra are commendable, the song fails to make a lasting impression. The controversy surrounding Shaan sharing credits with Dev Negi only adds to the song’s underwhelming reception. Given its potential as a Holi anthem, Bum Bum Bhole’ is a missed opportunity, lacking the exuberance and originality that could have made it a staple for celebrations.
In contrast, Aapke Bina’ emerges as a highlight of the album. Sung by the immensely talented Arijit Singh, this romantic ballad showcases a beautiful composition and heartfelt lyrics, again crafted by Sameer Anjaan. The song marks a significant triumph for both Salman Khan and Arijit, especially considering their previous friction. The chemistry between the two superstars is palpable, and this collaboration signifies a reconciliation that fans will appreciate. The visuals accompanying the song enhance its romantic appeal, and it successfully captures the essence of Salman Khan’s iconic romantic numbers. Aapke Bina’ stands out as an indication to the enduring power of love songs in Bollywood, and it is likely to resonate with audiences long after the film’s release.
The crown jewel of this album is undoubtedly the title track, Sikandar Naache’. Written by Sameer and sung by Amit Mishra, Akasa Singh, and Siddhant Miishhraa, this song boasts a rich combination of sounds that blend Arabian influences with Indian traditional music. The result is a vibrant and dynamic composition that stands out in the album.
The visual appeal of the music video further amplifies its impact, making it a memorable experience.While male singers are good, Akasa Singh stands out with a style and seduction in her voice This track not only showcases the potential of the film’s music but also serves as a reminder of the high expectations associated with Salman Khan’s films. Its fusion of styles creates a refreshing listening experience that is likely to linger in the minds of listeners.
Overall, the music of Sikandar’ presents a mixed bag of melodies. While there are standout moments, particularly with Aapke Bina and the title track, the album as a whole does not reach the heights of past Salman Khan soundtracks. Pritam, known for his ability to create chart-topping hits, seems to be operating at a diminished capacity here, delivering an average musical experience rather than the blockbuster soundtrack that fans anticipate. As Sikandar prepares to hit theaters, one can only hope that the film’s overall impact will elevate the music, which, while enjoyable, ultimately falls short of the extraordinary legacy associated with Salman Khan’s cinematic celebrations.
