Gangs of Wasseypur II is an extension of Anurag Kashyap's resolute crime series. The music album though neither comprises of any item number nor is there any retro number that could enhance the exquisiteness of a disco deck. Rather, this Sneha Khanwalkar composed album is very appropriately decorated with the kind of tracks that connect the movie with the core realm of affairs. The contribution made by lyricist Varun Grover has also tried to keep up with the theme of the movie.
The album starts with the track Chhi- Chha Leddar where vocals are given by a 12 year child artist Durga. The innocence and purity of a child's voice can be felt across the entire track. Use of funky instruments in the track sounds really fascinating albeit a bit strange. Varun's lyrics make things further interesting and attractive.
Next to arrive is Kaala Rey, a solo which is sung by Sneha herself. A slow track, its appeal is further accentuated by Varun's lyrics that haunt the listener, more so since everything in the track is conveyed as kaala.
Electric Piya follows next and the track begins with a harmonium that adds a desi Bihari folk tadka to the music album. Rasika D Rani's rendition is racy and catchy. Lyrics are interesting too and would certainly bring rural masses to the theater. Another version Electric Piya - Fused is a techno manifestation of the original.
Bahut Khoob, an experiment by Sneha, is more of a poetry being recited by a child without any pause. Though music conveys a qawali feel in the beginning, it turns out to be harsh and even a little weird as it proceeds. There is an '8 bit' version of the song that appears as well which is quite similar to the original but is unable to appeal to the audience. More so since the lyrics, yet again, are unclear and ambiguous.
Taar Bijli, a very apt folk song sung by Padamshree Sharda Sinha is really superb though and while the tune is slow here, the lyrics are humorous and catchy.
Aabroo, a qawwali by Piyush Mishra and Bhupesh Singh, seems to be a satire on the evils existing in the society. What works most are the lyrics which are simple and easy to understand.
Another addition to the album is, 'Perpendicular-Theme' which is a good fusion of various instruments and sounds brought to fore by the composer.
Next to appear is Moora, a slow number. This track begins with a beautiful amalgamation of piano and guitar while Sneha's vocals are soothing to ears. Moora - Morning is another variation to the song but doesn't appeal as much as the one that was heard before.
Tunya, another instrumental experiment by Sneha, begins with the kind of sound that reminds one of the kind that played along with ever-so-popular 'Super Mario' video game. This is further fused with harmonium quite remarkably, hence bringing a unique touch.
The album ends with KKL, a techno version of Keh Ke Loonga, the biggest chartbuster from Gangs of Wasseypur. This one begins with the sound of drums and is combined well with modern instruments, hence lending a true fusion folk appeal.
Overall though there is something still missing due to which Gangs of Wasseypur II settles down to be a barely average album. Yes, Sneha and Varun have tried to keep the songs quite different from the current musical trends in the industry. They have also provided audience with the true essence of the movie. However as a standalone album that may have a shelf life of its own, Gangs of Wasseypur II doesn't really have in it to cover a greater distance.
