Review by:  Radhika Jit

Music by:  Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, Kailash-Paresh-Naresh, Bappi Lahiri, and Bohemia.

Lyrics by: Kailash Kher, Rajat Arora, Bohemia, and Shaily Shailender

Singers: Shankar Mahadevan, Shreya Ghosal, Kailash Kher, Bappi Lahiri, Ravi Khanwilkar, Neeraj Shridhar, Anushka Manchandani, Akshay Kumar, and Bohemia

It may be a film with a lot of expectations but with a title like, 'Chandni Chowk to China' I really wasn't expecting much, other than comedic, situational songs.

One of the most interesting aspects about the soundtrack is the number of composers.  While most Bollywood soundtracks feature only one composer, 'Chandni Chowk to China' features three.  So does this soundtrack hold true to the rule, of "too many cooks in the pot, spoils the broth"?  Read my review below to find out!

'S.I.D.H.U':  Belted out by Kailash Kher, 'S.I.D.H.U.' is a purely Indian complete with sitars, tablas and the harmonium.  The track takes you through the journey of Akshay Kumar's character's upbringing in the village of Chandni Chowk.  It takes a few listens, but it proves to be quite a clever song, although not one that will be taking a spot in my iPod.

'Chandni Chowk to China':  This is perhaps the most surprising track on the album. With composition and lyrics by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, the track is actually quite enjoyable. Funny lyrics, great vocals and a toe-tapping beat create a good listen. The combination of Chinese elements, Hip Hop elements, and pure Indian beats at some points are melded well. Definitely a chart topper.

'India Se Aaya Tera Dost':  The Bappi Lahiri song is a take on the old school classic, 'Bambai Se Aaya Mere Dost,' but lacks the magic of its classic counterpart.  The lyrics are zany, and by the sound of the vocals it's meant to be picturized on a group of drunken men.  The music is all over the place and does not please.  Word to the wise, when recreating classics, it's a fine line between honoring it and butchering it.

'Tere Naina':  The one romantic number is composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and sung by Shreya Ghosal and Shankar Mahadevan is a sweet and breezy listen.  It's one of those songs that is meant to make you feel as though you're floating on air (well those that are in love at least!).  Hands down the best song on the soundtrack, it should be interesting to see how it will be picturized.

'Chak Lein De':  The song is obviously a situational based one that features strong vocals by Kailash Kher.  While it's not a song that will gain too much popularity before the film's release, it's crafted quite well musically.  It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but Akshay Kumar fans will definitely lap it up!

'CC2C':  The song is another take on the title song, 'Chandni Chowk to China,' which unfortunately features rapping by Akshay Kumar.  It's a track that only an Akshay Kumar fan can appreciate.  After 'Singh is Kinng' I was hoping the world wouldn't have to be subjected to Akshay Kumar's wannabe rapping "skills" but alas that wasn't the case.  With lyrics like "Saara Bollywood ek mera koi nahi mel, acting karne chale hazaroon baadshah ek baaki saare fail," you can't help but cringe.  Never will I subject my ears to this song again.  It also features Punjabi rapper Bohemia. 

Verdict:  The soundtrack is average with a few standout songs.  Based on Akshay Kumar's current standing as the new 'Kinng' of Bollywood it should fare well with his fans and will do well based on the hype of the film.  While it's nothing to jump about the use of more then one composer allows for a lot of range.  It has the potential to become more successful after the release of the film.  Pick up the standout songs from iTunes.

Rating: 3 out of 5*

My Picks:  'Tere Naina' and 'Chandni Chowk to China'