Brimful Of Asha

Cornershop's song "Brimful Of Asha" is a vibrant celebration of Bollywood music and the cultural impact of vinyl records, particularly the 45 RPM format. The song's title and recurring phrase, "Brimful of Asha," refer to Asha Bhosle, a legendary playback singer in Indian cinema. Her voice, along with those of other iconic singers like Mohammed Rafi and Lata Mangeshkar, has been a cornerstone of Bollywood's golden era, providing the soundtrack to countless films and the dreams of millions. The lyrics paint a picture of the joy and escapism that these songs brought to people's lives, from morning till night, behind the movie scenes and beyond.

The repeated mention of "forty-five" highlights the significance of 45 RPM vinyl records, which were a popular format for singles in the mid-20th century. These records were a primary medium through which music was consumed, shared, and cherished. The song nostalgically recalls the era when music was a tangible, physical experience, with records being played on solid-state radios and mono systems. This nostalgia is further emphasized by the list of artists and labels, such as Jacques Dutronc, Trojan Records, and All India Radio, which evoke a sense of a diverse and rich musical landscape.

The phrase "Everybody needs a bosom for a pillow" serves as a metaphor for comfort and solace, suggesting that music, particularly the songs of Asha Bhosle and other greats, provides a comforting escape from the hardships of life. The song also subtly critiques modernity and the loss of simpler pleasures, as seen in the lines about not caring for government warnings and the promotion of a simple life. This juxtaposition of past and present underscores the enduring power of music to connect people to their roots and offer a sense of belonging and comfort.