The much awaited music of Kambakkht Ishq has finally released with much pomp and élan. Joining the reigning celebs of Bollywood, Akshay Kumar and Kareena Kapoor, are two of Hollywood’s hottest stars, Slyvester Stallone and Denise Richards. With a steaming sizzling star cast, one can only wonder if the music of the film will raise temperatures on the music charts. Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by debutante director Sabbir Khan, the duo have taken on ace music director Annu Malik to add spice to the zesty plot and feisty characters. Previously the producer-music director duo have jutted out some popular foot tapping albums including Judwaa, Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega and Jaan-E-Mann. Just when you thought they couldn’t give you anymore music to dance to, they are back with a bang promising to bring you perhaps one of the most fun albums this summer.

First on the list is clearly a song dedicated to Kareena Kapoor, Bebo. Sung by Alisha Chinai who unfortunately is not at her best, especially if her 'Bebo' number has to be compared to her 'Kajra Re' one. While the number definitely sounds like one Kareena would be able to pull-off with great style, the lyrics are definitely cheesy. Malik is at his usual self with nothing much to offer with his quick and wannabe sexy song. However, because of its interesting style of choreography, it is likely to formulate the song into a hit on the airwaves. For the remix fans, 'Beb'o comes in a remixed version which is a notch better than the original for sure.

The title song, Kambakkht Ishq is graced by the likes of K.K. and Sunidhi Chauhan. This one is definitely one of the toppers in the album. The singers are perfectly chosen to accentuate this totally cool and catchy tune which unfortunately too has fallen victim to some tacky lyrics. Nonetheless, the singers add much flair and grace even, to the song making it sound youthful. Musically, this one is a winner. The remixed version is a waste and not as worthy as the original.

Following the quicker pieces is a much needed slower number, Kyun. Shaan takes the cake with this number adding some peace and shades of romance to this otherwise raunchy soundtrack. Shreya Ghosal joins him — no other contemporary singing duo could have done justice to this romantic song. Slow and beautifully written, the song speaks volumes about the real talent that lies within Anu Malik. Shreya has a solo version of the same song which too is a treat to the senses.

Lakh Lakh, sung by Neeraj Sridhar has an uncanny similiarity to 'Bhootni Ke' from Singh is Kinng. Although, both songs are dramatically different, the idea behind the chorus being boisterous and exuberance is quite similar. The Bhangra tune is evident and Sridhar has bought himself another song which will be used at the local night clubs in the coming future. Catch this one in a remix too.

Yes, Kambakkht Ishq has graciously allowed RDB to guest-compose for the album. RDB takes the cake with Om Mangalam. The catchy tune and even catchier lyrics along with the Sanskrit shlok collectively include ingredients for a hit song – which it is. With the hip-hop phase being the current phase amongst the youth, this number is bound to be a chartbuster. The remix “reprised” version too is fun.

On the hold, the album is definitely a must-have to your CD collection. If I had to pick my favorites in the album, 'Kyun' and 'Om Mangalam' play favorites in my list. And as much as I complained about the over-sappy 'Bebo', I found myself humming the tune all day. Kambakkht Ishq is a fun and chilled-out album which was very much needed to drench the drought on the music charts. The immense number of remixes in their various names could have totally been avoided though.

You’ll just have to wait for the film to release to see if Stallone and Richards have shook a leg for any of the numbers. Until then, this album ain’t so Kambakkht.

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