I Love Desi 2: The Other

I'm continuing the review of India 2010 with part 2, The Other. In other words, Bollywood's incorporation and exploration of other music styles and ethnicities. A quick reminder: this is simply based off the tunes I picked up and hardly a comprehensive look.



"O Diwano Dil Sambhalo" (from The Great Gambler).

Asha Bhosle & R.D. Burman. That's like Snoop & Dre, India & MAW; a winning combo. The soundtrack restores the song's highlight--a brooding opening that that sounds like Morricone shouting, "Attenzione!" I know, this bit is clipped from the film. But plenty to enjoy once the Tijuana Brass breaks out.



"Na Mangun Sona Chandi" (from Bobby)

Laxmikant Pyarelal's soundtrack to this early teen rom-com affair appropriately pairs a swinging "Volare" beat with Tijuana Brass. Didn't know they shot this scene in Epcot Center. Anyway, turns out there's more of this Italian folk-inspired music...



"Chahe Koi Khush Ho" (from Taxi Driver)

The great thing about Hindi music television is there is an abundance of playback singer video shows. Problem is they don't credit any of the singers or the film sources. So, I haven't been able to track down any of the moments that I enjoyed the most. Nevertheless, I tried to find some older soundtracks and came across this S.D. Burman effort from 1954. Much of the music and film feels quaint in an almost Merry Melodies way. And then there's this cut, which seems to further support the idea of some Italo-Indo link. With a delightfully skipping rhythm similar to "Funiculi, Funicula", no surprise it's a gaggle of guys chummily singing as they try to drive a busted jalopy down the road.



"Denewala Jabhi Deta (from Funtoosh)

This S.D. Burman track is not necessarily the best from Funtoosh, but is notable for its roll call of ethnic stereotypes: Chinese, Russians, Hawaiians and gay Black pirates all get some. Hardly shocking, but more fascinating for why these particular groups were chosen.

Next up will be part 3, Go, Go!