Back in 2008, Jannat, a small film about match fixingin cricket, made a killing at the box office. And Pritam’s melodies had played a vital role in drawing the crowds to this Emraan Hashmi-starrer.Five years later, the same team returns with Jannat 2, this time tackling the issue of illegal arms. The expectations from the soundtrack are huge since big names like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, KK, Shafqat Amanat Ali and Mohit Chauhan feature in the album.

Tu hi mera (Shafqat Amanat Ali) is a Sufiesque love ballad that’s the stereo typical number Pritam composes forVishesh Films, replete with a Pakistani singer and a looped chorus. Nevertheless, it’s a track that will find popularity due to Shafqat’s amazing vocals and the Emraan Hashmi association. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, rather surprisingly, disappoints with his unusually high-pitched rendition of Tera deedar hua, another romantic number with a qawwali-style chorus. But Javed Ali is fabulous in his version!

Tujhe sochta hoon is a repeat of the Pritam-KK magic that has captivated the audience many times before. KK is delightful in this gentle, sensual number, making you wonder why he’s not heard so often these days. In comparison, the other version Sang hoon tere (Nikhil D’Souza) is disappointing.Possibly the best track in the album, Rab ka shukrana is a soothing melody that gets one’s attention almost instantly. Mohit Chauhan and Anupam Amod are wonderful in their respective versions.Sanjay Masoomm’s lyrics are a clever play of words and sound fresh.

Pritam uses the chorus hook from the chartbuster Zara sa(Jannat) and weaves an entire new songJannatein kahan around it, embellishingit with rap lyrics and an electronic bed.The by-now familiar chorus gives thenumber an anthemic feel.

Jannat 2 is not a classic, but is definitely entertaining.

Verdict: Good stuff