Hindi music album reviews

Playing It Loud
Raghav Sachar
As an expert multi-instrumentalist and a budding composer/singer, Raghav Sachar has made his presence felt with songs such as Angel Eyes and Kabul Fiza. Play It Loud showcases an excellent fusion of different regional and international styles, which give this album a contemporary feel.

Complementing synthesizer sounds with instruments like the saxophone, piccolo, guitars and drums, Raghav makes the orchestration lively and colourful.

As a singer, he still has some way to go – his sentimental number Teri Hi Yaad leaves a lot to be desired. But as a composer/sound designer he has got what it takes. The opening track Anjaane Chehre cleverly uses the vocal sample from Asha Bhosle's Dekhne Mein Bhola Hai to great effect.

The rest of the album is filled with racy romantic songs such as Jaanu Nahi Jaana Kahan, Udta Hoon Aasma Mein and Haseeno Ki Nigahon Mein.

Hits Unlimited 02
Sonu Nigam
This compilation of Sonu Nigam's Bollywood hits is further proof of his immense vocal talent and versatility. Soft, romantic songs such as Dekho Na, Khamoshiyan Gungunane Lagi, Panchhi Nadiya and Yeh Unn Dinon Ki Baat Hai are a treat to listen to and feisty numbers such as My Name Is Ali, Dil Gaya, Ada, U& I and Suna Tha are perfect to dance to.

Jane Jaan Dhoondta Phir Raha
Various artists
Music of the '70s has gained popularity of late and this compilation tries to cash in on the trend. Apart from picks such as Jane Jaan Dhoondta Phir Raha, Wada Karo and Mile Do Badan, the album has some unusual numbers like Premi Sabhi Hote Hain Deewane, Kaun Mil Gaya Ghar Se Nikalke and Paas Rehta Hai.

Pure Gold
Mohammad Rafi
This well-compiled album includes songs from Mohammad Rafi's vast and varied repertoire. From his brilliant romantic numbers Baharon Phool Barsao, Yeh Mera Prempatra Padhkar, Likhe Jo Khat Tujhe and Teri Aankhon Ke Siwa to his intensely emotional songs Yeh Duniya Yeh Mehfil and Aaja Tujhko Pukare Mera Pyar, this album has it all.