Considering the soundtrack's relative obscurity (I believe this EP was the only release afforded), Shankar Jaikishan's 'Aaj Ki Taza Khabar' [review] is suprisingly good. 'Khilta Hua Shabab Hai' has a joyful 1950s vibe; 'Raat Hai Bhat Hai' sounds somewhat similar to the composing duo's famous rock 'n' roll numbers of the subsequent decade. 'Mujhe Meri Biwi Se Bachao' has a funky groove bringing the music up-to-date, and 'Happy Birthday To Pinky' is as upbeat as is required of a birthday song. Quite delightful.
'Dhoop Chhaon' isn't as immediate but has been growing on me. 'Bheegee Bheegee Raat Suhani' was the one that attracted me to it in the first place; a loud and frantic, sort of depraved sounding beat number that reminds me of Sapan Jagmohan's best stuff. The other three tracks are more conventional (for lack of a better word), but melding modern and traditional influences to create a trio of undeniably worthwhile songs. 'Ek Shahari Chhora' is my favourite, for the moment. Sound quality isn't the best though; my copy of the EP is very worn unfortunately.
Still, these are two more reasons why one shouldn't necessarily write off Shankar Jaikishan scores made after Jaikishan's passing.
Track listing, 'Aaj Ki Taza Khabar':
1. Asha Bhosle: Khilta Hua Shabab Hai
2. Kishore Kumar: Raat Hai Bhat Hai
3. Kishore Kumar: Mujhe Meri Biwi Se Bachao
4. Asha Bhosle & Chorus: Happy Birthday To Pinky
Track listing, 'Dhoop Chhaon'
1. Mohd. Rafi: Joode Men Gajra Mat Bandho
2. Lata Mangeshkar: Bheegee Bheegee Raat Suhani
3. Asha Bhosle: Mushkil Hai Bahot Mushkil
4. Usha Mangeshkar, Kalyani Mitra & Chorus: Ek Shahari Chhora