Artist: Kailasa,

Label: Sony Music,

Rating: 2.5/5,

There are very few musicians or artistes who can perform 'live' the music they produce. And perhaps, Kailasa are the only band who time and again prove their virtuosity - be it in studio or on stage –  a quality which separates real musicians from the lip syncing lot. The band now comes with their third studio album Kailasa Chaandan Mein which has an intelligent mix of ballads, energetic songs and Sufi music.

The opening track Chaandan Mein is a slow, mellow, sonorous track with simple lyrics to hum. However, the �saiyyan' chorus in the song does remind you of their previous offering – I think it's time to send that word (saiyyan) on a sabbatical. The energetic Na Batati Tu (na dhin dhin na) starts with �bolish' that furthers into a great groove. The intermittent sitar solos in the song give it an unexpected world music touch – a good experiment by the band. The next, Teri Yaad Mein, starts
with a great hook, but too many variations with the arrangements pulls down the melody.

One of the best tracks of the album is the joy and jazz embodied rain song Bheeg Gaya Mera Mann – make sure you give this an ear! The next, Ishq Ho Gaya, evokes the feeling of �longing' and the occasional rabab instrumental speaks doom – the song is apt for quiet listening. Piya Ghar Aavenge is again a soft song, which will grow with multiple listening.

The popular instrument Anand Lahiri sets the groove for the next song Rang Rang Ma. The song is well arranged and is surely going to be added to their live playlist – but compared to the similar tempo�ed Bum Bhole or Tauba Tauba, this one is short of some punch.

Kar Kar Main Haara has a retro start reminding of a trademark O P Nayyar tune, however, the Kailash Kher sound soon takes charge, and boom – the song changes in seconds. With harmonium, sitar and tight drumming, the song transitions just too often – which makes it a little difficult to hold on or recollect.

Kailash Kher gets to his roots in Albela Saajan – listeners who are fond of his earlier compositions will be happy and instantly connect. The last song, Tere Naina ends on a softer note. The instrumental variations lift the song to some extent, but again, it's not a tune with easy connect.

Over the years, Kailasa have established a distinct sound and experimented with arrangements, lyrics and themes. However, in this album, the band experiments way too much – especially with the arrangements. For some songs the trick works, for some it doesn't. Having said that, Kailasa Chaandan Mein seems both a matured and experimental offering by the band – one of the reasons why a listener who has followed Kailasa's music may find it a little difficult to catch pace.

PS: IMHO, this is NOT for Bollywood music addicts!!