Music Review: Diary — Robi O Nobin

Rating: ** 1/2
At a time that new bands are cropping up each day, one would have expected a more heartfelt attempt from RON (acronym for the band's name), specially when they boast of a senior member like Soumitra Ray. This one lacks direction. While the entire soundtrack is very reminiscent of tunes that were in vogue a decade or two back, the band has tried to merge them with contemporary issues and experimental genres.
The album takes off with Aami, the psychadelia. But this format is done to death, and the experimentation with the genre doesn’t impress. One wonders why Sobujer gaan, which supposedly is about monsoon in North Bengal resonates with tunes of beach songs! Melar gaan comes as a respite. A typical chhorar gaan, accompanied by folk music instruments making it fun and upbeat. Maa go sounds like a prayer song, having nothing new to offer and the much hyped O Malala continues with that lilt. Then comes Narugopal, which is characteristic Soumitra — quirky and funny.The song makes one wish that the Bhoomi singer will stick to his forté. Iccher tara, the lone song composed by Soumitra’s son Arjyesh, does impress.The young man proves his mettle. Both the lyrics and the composition take the cake for this album. Traffic constable brings in some energy to the soundscape. It’s dramatic, vibrant and gives a message while being quirky. Ki kori bolo is a fast-paced number — pleasant on the ears. The last track is a slow sonnet that again has the hymn theme running through it.
The album’s redemption comes in the form of a line on its back cover — Purchasing this album will help educate a needy girl child.