Music Review: Million Dollar Arm (English)

Composer(s): A. R. Rahman
Listen to the songs online here: Saavn

The techno-bhangra Makhna is evocative of Rang De Basanti's title song, yet its exuberance cannot be denied, what with Sukhwinder Singh stealing the show with his flawless singing. The Fancy hitmaker Iggy Azalea joins Singh in the catchy bhangra-rap fusion Million Dollar Arm, even as Rahman's spectacular 90's semi-classical melody Thirakkadha from En Swasa Kaatre appears as Unborn Children, sounding as stunningly fresh as ever even now. We Could Be Kings is no different, a beautiful Indian-meets-western fusion, wonderfully arranged and well sung by Scottish singer KT Tunstall. Taa Taa Tai, adorned with beautiful sitar solos, is hyper-energetic fare, while Keep the Hustle, featuring rapper Wale, is groovy techno stuff. Nimma Nimma (Jaspreet Jasz) is the only weak link in the soundtrack, never managing to rise above the typical Punjabi-folk template.

Bobbleheads and Never Give Up are both ear-pleasing and melodious, and the harmonium-laden Lucknow treads the composer's sufi way in what could be termed only as bliss. Farewell too is a lovely listen for the flute base that adds a soothing touch to the serene instrumental. The Carnatic-based Desi Thoughts, as the name goes, has a rich contemplative vibe, complemented by stupendous use of guitars. The orchestral build-up of First Tryout is truly haunting, and the percussion heavy bedrock that embellishes Calling Scouts Again is just as impressive. Welcome to India is appositely traditional in every sense and goosebump-inducing, reminding us of the musical wizardry Rahman is capable of. Album closer The Final Pitch builds into a rousing finale befitting its title. Million Dollar Arm is undoubtedly the best crossover work from Isai Puyal A. R. Rahman till date. This is world music at its best!

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