Weekly Earworm (06/09/2020)

Dil Bechera (Hindi): AR Rahman: Never Say Goodbye: The guitar-laden track and the final single release of the wonderful album reaches a crescendo when Rahman brilliantly brings Taare Ginn to this sweeping song sung by AR Ameen. Though the track has nothing extraordinary to offer, the track is an engaging listen from the composer.

Amazon Prime Music Hyderabad Gig (Telugu): Vivek Sagar: Sanchari: Amazon Prime music Hyderabad Gig's sounds mostly align with the respective composer's film sounds starting from Gopi Sundar to Ghibran. Vivek Sagar brings out his signature kickass bluegrassy sound to this indie future also. The result is an absolutely enjoyable one an easily best of the lot from this lineup. The mandolin and banjo's gleeful soundscape and Thanathitha loop sound more like a Malayalam song.

Mudhal Nee Mudivum Nee (Tamil): Darbuka Siva: Mudhal Nee Mudivum Nee: Darbuka Siva - Sid Sriram - Thamarai combo comes together once again and the result is another stunner which sounds like an extension of Maruvarthai and Hey Nijame. It's a pleasure to see that Composer's note has been added to the song's description and definitely Debasmita Bhattacharya's sarod gives a beautiful classical texture to the song. Thamarai's poetic lyrics are icing on the cake and one wishes that she gets to write more.

Paris Paris: Amit Trivedi: Inda Somabanam, Enge En Santhosham, Padaigal Illai Endru: Inda Somabanam sounds like an equivalent of Hungama Ho gaya from the Original. The song is an intoxicating fun song with the crazy mix while Vijay Prakash and Vidya Vox sound to be having fun with the singing. Surprisingly Telugu jukebox doesn't have this song. Padaigal Illai Endru equivalent of Kinare and Enge En Santhosam rides mainly on the Superlative vocals by Shashaa Tripathi and Haricharan respectively. Especially Enge En Santhosham's pulsating pop makes it work.

Indumathi (Malayalam): Gopi Sundar: Gopi Sundar brilliantly conceives the semi-classical tune with the synth backdrop and Sithara Krishnakumar's vocal is simply outstanding. Though the rap sounds to be discordant with the overall tone of the song, the tune, and the vocals make this one a compelling Onam song.

Pick of the album: Mudhal Nee Mudivum Nee, Sanchari, Inda Somabanam

Music Review (Tamil): Mersal

Music Review (Tamil): Mersal
Music Composer: A R Rahman

Aalaporaan Tamizhan comes off easily as one of the best introduction songs for Vijay but the song has a mind-boggling mix of free-flowing tune pieces and whether those pieces coherently fits together is a questionable one. Rahman builds the tune in a splendid manner with thumping grand percussions in the interludes and the lovely chorus portions topped by Naveen Kumar's flute. Kailash Kher does a decent job in the vocal department while AV Pooja's Raanjhanaa'esque cameo in the second half is a winsome show by the singer.Neethaane is a blissful listen and Shreya Goshal's saccharine brimming vocals is enough for the listeners to fall in love with the song. She easily overshadows the A R Rahman vocals in the track and AR Rahman easily scores when one considers the arrangements. Mohana Veena by Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt accompanied by the classical sargam in the second interlude by the composer makes this one spellbinding listen.

A R Rahman continues to relegate techno loaded song for Sid Sriram and the singer's suave rendition makes it listenable despite an average weird tune and with ample support from another talented singer Swetha Mohan. Rahman wields his potential in the arrangements especially the mix of classical guitar strums amidst the techno sounds in the first interlude is the sheer brilliance by the Mozart of Madras. Mersal Arasan is another frenetic percussion dominated song in the album similar to Aalaporaan Tamizhan and this one also features a discordant mix of tune bits despite the individual tunes are interesting enough to hold the listener for its run time. Naresh Iyer and GV Prakash sounds apt and the tongue rolling chorus is the easy takeaway in this mediocre assorted mix of distinct fragments.

Verdict: AR Rahman delivers the mass album for Vijay but the album is a short and weak one considering the hype around it with the Atlee- AR Rahman- Vijay combination.

My Rating: 7/10

Pick of the Album: Neethaane, Aalaporaan Tamizhan

P.S You can listen to the songs in Saavn.

Music Review (Tamil): Kaatru Veliyidai:

Music Review (Tamil): Kaatru Veliyidai:
Music Composer: A R Rahman

Nallai Allai's clean guitar laden background largely benefits from Sathyaprakash's effortless rendition and Chinmayi's superlative humming in the interludes. Vairamuthu's Tamil verses shine in the vocals of lead singer and the improvisations by Sathyaprakash is spot on which makes up for the familiar Rahman tune.Azhagiye is charming and lilting throughout the song except for the odd terse Punjabi inclusion and Haricharan's buoyant rendition easily makes this one appealing one. Jonita Gandhi's humming standout, while Madhan Karky's easy go lyrics, sounds apt for the overall mood of the tune. The few acapella portions evocate memories of  Sandikuthirai from Kaaviyathalaivan.

The soundtrack best is undeniably Vaan Varuvan and Rahman utilizes Shashaa Tripathi's lovely vocals to the splendid effect making this one dreamy song. Apart from the mesmerizing vocals, Rahman shows his mixing effect to full throttle and the plethora of sounds in the background makes this one blissful experience while Vairamuthu's lyrics adds to the song's magical effect.The ultra-catchy Sarattu Vandiyila traces back to the Rahman's folk songs from Taj Mahal and Thenali while the song's uncanny resemblance to the Mohan Sitara's Thanakkum Thana is difficult to brush off. However, Rahman's background dominated by guitar, mandolin, and other assorted sounds is surely a delight to listen while Tipu and AR Raihanah breezes through the Vairamuthu's wordplay effectually.Tango Kelaayo starts off beautifully with an engaging typical Tango styled number and the song traverses through multiple ways with a mix of retro-styled tune and culminating in the orchestral brilliant string sections. However, overall, the song is a bit of let down except for the few enticing portions in a helter-skelter manner.Haricharan and Diwakar are pitch perfect in vocal front. Jugni's synth dominated soundscape mixed in a hypnotic manner is the masterstroke from the composer while the same cannot be said regarding the Punjabi flavored tune. Raajakumari and Shikara's rap portions didn't add much value to the song. Rahman's impressive sound dynamics is the highlight of this track.

Verdict: Kaatru Veliyidai has the fair mix of melodies and Rahman's experimentations, However, the album is few notches below the usual Rahman- Maniratnam's soundtrack.

My Rating: 8/10

Pick of the Album: Vaan Varuvan, Sarattu Vandiyila, Nallai Allai

Thoughts On Ok Jaanu

Music Review (Hindi): Ok Jaanu
Music Composer: A R Rahman

Oh Kadhal Kanmani is one of the most loved AR Rahman albums in recent times and Maniratnam makes sure that he gets best from Rahman and the album's diverse range from classical Malargal Kettaen, Naane Varugiren to peppy uber cool techno wacky Kaara Aattakara. 

The Hindi version of the album retains almost all the songs except for the brilliant singalong pop sounded Aye Sinamika and it is replaced by droning Enna Sonna which sounds more like music from Bhatt movies than Rahman soundtrack. However, Rahman brilliantly employed Malargal Kettaen's equivalent in Sunn Bhavra where Shashaa Tripathi aces the lovely Hindustani classical like a pro. Jonitha Gandhi's singing prowess is ostensibly apparent in the O Kadhal Kanmani's best Naane Varugiren named as Saajon Aaye Re in Ok Jaanu and the track still sounds brilliant for its engaging tune and the Nakash Aziz brief solo in the middle. The groovy tracks Mental Manadhil and Kaara Aaatakkara sounds adequately peppy in Hindi also as Ok Jaanu and Kaara Fankaara respectively.  Parandhu Sellava's replacement is an utterly pointless Humma recreation and the song sounds bland and random when compared to both the beautiful original tune and likable Parandhu Sellava. Another song along with Saajon Aaye Re where the original beauty of the song retained is Jee Lein. The trippy rhythm sound  and the tune is transitioned to Hindi smoothly along with the lovely digression in the middle.

Verdict: Oh Kadhal Kanmani/Ok Jaanu's soul lies in the beautiful tunes extracted by Maniratnam from Rahman and the classical songs still works big time in Hindi Version also. Ok Jaanu fares tad lower mostly due to the original songs which doesn't match up to the Tamil version.

My Rating: 8/10 

Pick of the Album: Saajon Aaye Re, Sunn Bhavra, Jee Lein

Music Review (Hindi): Mohenjo Daro

Music Review (Hindi): Mohenjo Daro
Music Composer: A R Rahman

Mohenjo Mohenjo as expected replete with expansive percussion elements and other exotic sounds, though the tune is not an exciting one, Arijit Singh and especially Bela Shende holds it together till the arousing end of the song. Sindhu Maa is the typical Rahman contemporary melody with few exotic touches in the interlude in terms of chants.Rahman's singing comes off as a Deja-vu one while 24 fame Sanah Moidutty gives the new dimension to the melody with her vocals. Sarsariya reminds Nannare from Guru especially prelude flute and Rahman's imaginative arrangements with percussion and flute in the interludes makes this one immensely enjoyable song. Shashaa Tirupati, Rahman's recent frequent collaborator aces the lovely tune like a pro with her pleasant vocals and Shashwat Singh of Tamashaa fame ably support her. Sindhu Maa's comes off as another version Tu hai and most of the arrangements kept intact without much change. Compared to the lyrical version of Tu hai, it's instrumental version The Shimmer of Sindhu comes off beautifully for its pleasant guitar work by Keba Jeremiah and flautist Kareem Kamalakar. Whispers of the mind and Whispers of the heart both treads on the similar soundscape one can expect from the movie of this period. The former one is more serene while latter one is a punchy one with ample dosage of percussions and chorus. Rahman rounds off the epic soundtrack with absolutely engaging instrumental piece Lakh Lakh Thora with Tapas Roy's mandolin(/oud?) being the highlight.

Verdict: Rahman's association with Ashutosh Gowarikar for the third time is not as exquisite as his other period films with the director. However, couple of songs stay true to the theme and equally enjoyable affair from Rahman.

My Rating: 7.75/10

Pick of the Album: Lakh Lakh Thora, Sarsariya, Tu Hai

P.S You can listen to the songs in Saavn.

Music Review (Tamil): Achcham Enbadhu Madamaiyada

Music Review (Tamil): Achcham Enbadhu Madamaiyada

Music Composer: A R Rahman

Showkali's techno loaded track's main drawback is mishmash of assorted sounds in the background which didn't blend together as a cohesive enjoyable track. As a standalone pieces, middle eastern touch and kuthu portions are effective with ADK and Sri Rascal's rap props up a song further along with Aditya Rao's melody. Rahman fares better in another techno track Thalli Pogadhey, which starts with an instantly catchy sound and upped by Sid Srirams's effective singing accompanied by Thamarai's lovely metaphorical lyrics. The humming portions by the uncredited female singer gives pleasant touch to the proceedings.

Avalum Naanum's serene arrangements with mesmerising flute sections and western classical violin in the interludes amped the beauty of the song. Rahman set the Bharathidasan's beautiful lyrics with ethereal sounding tune and ambience music in the background while Vijay Yesudas sounds fabulous from start till end. The album's undeniable winner is Raasaali, where eveything fits the bill perfectly from eagle sounds in the start, the song has string of awesome elements like utilization of Patnam Subramaniyam's composition, lovely Kanjira set to the tune of muthai thiru in charanams. The icing on the cake is the top-notch singing by Satya Prakash and Shashaa Tripati. Thamarai's poetical lyrics deserve a special mention where she beautifully portrayed the feel of the girl and the boy during bike ride. The only melody track which didn't work much is Idhu Naal, where the tune borders around Omana Penne andf interludes reminds us the Hosanna from VTV while Aditya Rao and Jonita Gandhi sounds fabulous till the song ends.

Verdict: Rahman's association with Gautam Vasudev Menon for second time sparkles less when compared to their previous album VTV. However two stunning melodies by Rahamn is a keeper in this soundtrack.

My rating: 7.75/10

Pick of the Album: Raasaali, Avalum Naanum, Thalli Pogadhey

Music Review (Tamil): 24

Music Review (Tamil): 24
Music Composer: A R Rahman

     Naan Un is the dulcet melody has the charming sing-along tune which both proficient lead singers Arijith Singh and Chinmayi aces with their beautiful rendition especially loved the hummable charanam portions. The Sunshine Chamber group's orchestration reaches the crescendo in the latter half of the song which features goosebump-inducing gospel music although it totally overshadows Madhan Karky's lyrics. Rahman laces the interludes with brilliant solo cello and apt percussions. Rahman comes up with another unstructured song Mei Nigara, loaded with quite a lot of intriguing techno sounds and especially loved the way Sid Sriram's high pitched vocals interlaced with debutant Sanah Moidutty's and Jonitha Gandhi's improvisations. Madhan Karky makes the song lot more impressive with his lyrics and overall splendid mixing of the sounds with vocals makes this song works. The song has an insanely catchy hook with odathe Thithikari.

         Punnagaye starts with a lovely prelude, wonderful mix of string sections cum Kareem Kamalakkar's flute especially in the tribal tone in the second interlude. The tune has the vintage shades of Rahman's earlier compositions and Shashaa Tripati owns the tune with her mellifluous vocals while Haricharan lends her support with the rousing portions. Though the tune is not an instantly catchy one, the song is enjoyable till it lasts. Shakthi Shree Gopalan croons serene lullaby Aararoo and Rahman's minimal orchestration with mainly Keba Jeremiah's guitar gives much impact to the song. Madhan Karky's poignant effective lyrics for this simple yet lovely listen. The overall feel and the involvement of Shakthishree and Keba reminds Ved Shankar's Azhagu Kutty Chellam's title song.
My twin brother, pacy instrumental theme filled with occasional choral chants by Srinivasa Krishnan and the composer succeeds in bringing the feel required for the intense thriller with fantastic mix of percussions and frenzied string sections. The theme may work well along with the visuals. Kaalam En Kadhali which is already released as a single and created quite a lot of waves in online media. The song has quite an extensive usage of electronic techno and hip-hop sounds which works partially while Benny Dayal rendition helps the song to an extent. Rahman's touches with synthesised Nadhaswarm sound and the percussions are the highlights in this partially engaging song.

Verdict: Rahman's latest album 24 sounds enjoyable and good with the composer's stamp but the album lags tad behind in creating the usual excitement while listening to the songs in Rahman album. However, the couple of songs Naan un and Mei Nigara are here to stay.

My rating: 8/10

Pick of the Album: Naan un, Mei Nigara, Punnagaye

P.S You can listen to the songs in Eros now.

Music Review(Hindi): Tamasha

Music Review(Hindi): Tamasha
Music Composer: A R Rahman

         Matargashti, free flowing and video seems to be the tribute to Dev Anand whilethe tune also takes retro route in the middle with the melodic portions. Although the song is filled with many European sounds, liked particularly percussion elements throughout the song. Mohit Chauhan did a decent job in the rendition of this whimsical song which didn't adhere to any particular structure. Heer To Badi Sad hai where AR Rahman scores really well and the arrangements are top notch with brilliant use of Sarangi, mandolin in the second interlude, xylophone and synthesised gaming sounds occasionally. Rahman builds up very catchy tune in Punjabi folk base and Irshad Kamil wrote some brilliant lyrics about Heer's sadness. Mika Singh is exceptionally well and Nakash Aziz fills up with Oye hoyes and aaye Haayes. Tum Saath Ho is vintage Rahman, pleasant melody where Alka Yagnik with her mellifluous voice props up the song very well and makes the listener  feel nostalgic. Rahman's arrangements though have familiarity vibe attached to it, still this one is a wonderful listen. Arijit Singh ably supports her although he sounds like Rahman in high pitch portions.

       Wat Wat Wat also has Punjabi base, but Rahman once again embellished with interesting arrangements while distorted shehnai sounds are discernible among the other assorted sounds. Arijit Singh and Sashwat Singh aces in delivering this fun filled unconventional song. Arijit gets to sing out of his comfort zone with this one after senti wali mental in Shandaar. However, song's vengeance mix didn't fit the bill perfectly and it ends as a passable one. Chali Kahani is the brilliant medley of vocal powerhouse Sukhwinder Singh with Symphony touches while Haricharan and Haripriya aces with their Hindustani flavoured melodic portions. Song ends in an expected way where string section reaches the crescendo. Safarnama is loaded with buoyant guitar work although treads on the familiar strums, song is a pleasant listen in the vocals of Lucky Ali. Tu Koi Aur Hai is the longest song in the album which last around seven minutes and the song works mainly for Rahman's earnest rendition along with Irshad Kamil wonderful lyrics which inspires one to do what one wishes to do. Song which starts with very minimalistic orchestration but ends in a high with gospel-like chorus portions. Parade De la Bastille, starts off like devotional track with Rahman humming but turns out into highly foot tapping European instrumental with Violin and bagpipes steal the show among the other sounds and Rahman mixes Matargashti also in the middle of this three minute highly enjoyable instrumental. 

Verdict: Rahman once again delivered the highly enjoyable as well as expansive set of songs for Imitiaz Ali after Rockstar and Highway.

My rating: 8.75/10

Pick of the Album: Heer Toh badi sad, Wat Wat wat, Matargashi, Tum Saath ho

You can listen to the songs here.

Music Review (Tamil): Oh Kadhal Kanmani

Music Review (Tamil): Oh Kadhal Kanmani
Music Composer: A R Rahman 

Kaara Attakkara is quite a refreshing start to the album and title hook already created enough buzz in teaser which Rahman generously employed throughout the song in the midst of electronic techno sound wackiness. Aaryan Dinesh and Darshana's frenzy rapping is complemented by drums sounds and occasional quirky gaming sounds. Aye Sinamika whose promo released last week has charming and relaxed tune in the vocals of ever-reliable Karthik and he nails the singing part as usual. Rahman's arrangements through breezy with lilting guitar riffs, drums, piano touches and terse minimal flute sounds towards the end supported by wonderful humming especially in the first half of the track. Karthik and Shasha Tripati's playful rendition and other assorted sounds like whistling, solo carnatic sound, lovely string sections are mixed to give another endearing melody from Rahman in Parandhu Sellava. Especially Shasha Tripathi's singing standout in this number.

Mental Manadhil (Male version), which already created enough airwaves is groovy enough with brief lyrics by Manirathnam and A R Rahman and interesting hooks like mana mana and laika laila makes this one arresting listen despite conventional techno route. Song gets better with female version because of fangled and  impro in the rendition of Jonita Gandhi. Naane Varugiren classical fusion song sung superbly by Shasha Tripathi has endearing sounds of strings in the background throughout the song, tabla and thumping drums. Sathya Prakash marks his first song for Rahman with short high pitched portion in the mid-way. Theera Ula is another techno loaded song from Rahman and surprise is Carnatic part by Nikhita Gandhi in the middle of the song accompanied by classical guitar. However, this song slightly scores less than the other songs in the soundtrack. Rahman brings back another wonderful singer Chitra for Malargal Kaetaen and trade mark flute by him. Chitra sounds mellifluous as always in this carnatic piece for the wonderfully worded lyrics by Vairamuthu. A R Ameen, Rahman's son debuts for Arabic verse prayer song, genre in which Rahman delivers many gems in Hindi. Maula Wa Sallim adds another to his repertoire despite an ordinary one but feel imbibed by both Rahman and Ameen remain intact.

Verdict: Oh Kadhal Kanmani may not be Manirathnam- Rahman's best but album has well assembled and diversified set of songs which are enjoyable.

My rating: 9/10

Pick of the Album: Naane Varugiren, Malargal Kaetaen, Parandhu Sellava, Mental Manadhil(female)

Music Review (Tamil) : Lingaa

Music Review (Tamil) : Lingaa
Music Composer: A R Rahman
    
       En Mannava, a slow bollywood type of duet with interesting interludes including classical pieces with sitar, percussions etc for vairamuthu's period lyrics albeit tune is much ordinary. Aditya paul's sweet vocals is ably supported by Srinivas. Another anthemic song by Rahman, Indiane Vaa with high pitched vocals evokes memories of many similar compositions by Rahman itself. Vairamuthu's inspirational lyrics to bring back unity in water problem is apt. The pathos Unmai Orunaal Vellum by Haricharan is a heavily average track except for interludes and tune unable to clasp the listener till end despite much effort by singer. 
       Soundtrack's best are the remaining two songs. Rahman chooses retro gangster styled intro Oh Nanba for superstar Rajinikanth with superb brass section and Arabic styled percussions throughout the song infused with techno elements. Moreover SPB's energetic rendition blends well with the Aaryan's rap portions and chorus. It's quite after a long time, Rajini's intro song appeals most than other songs in the soundtrack. The next best song is Mona Gasolina, which has quite eccentric tune with catchy lyrics by Madhan Karky and singers Mano, Tanvi shah and Neeti Mohan added more craziness to the song with their rendition. Mano came back with a interesting song for Rahman and Mozart added techno sounds with appealing thavil and other assorted sounds especially chords section.

Verdict: Two songs by Rahman elevates the overall level of the superstar's soundtrack.

My rating:7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Oh nanba, Mona gasolina, En Mannava

Music Review: Raunaq (Indian Album)

Music Review: Raunaq (Indian Album)
Music Composer: A R Rahman

In Laadli, Lata Mangeshkar's age factor is quite apparent in her vocals and Rahman uses her voice minimal, giving the simple yet beautiful classic portions to the chorus. Rahman enters into the foray with his high pitched singing and usage of mild tabla throughout the song accentuates well with the flow of the song. Kho Jaayein Hum is a recitation of Kapil SIbal's poetry by Shweta pandit and Jyoti and Rahman uses the minimal orchestration prevailed by vocals. 

Geet Gaaon, a somber melody adorned with Jazz flavored orchestration by Jonita Gandhi is an exciting listen. Particularly usage of sitar in the interludes and minimal strings throughout the song blends perfectly with Jonita's breezy vocals. Jonita gandhi is getting similar type of songs from Rahman but not a problem though. Aabhi Jaa, another song with a soulful rendition by Jonita gandhi orchestrated beautifully with flute in the prelude, mandolin in the middle followed by percussions and sweeping strings towards the end. K S Chitra joined with A R Rahman after a long gap for Sach Kahoon and she sounds so enticing as always for the simple pleasant filmy tune. Khatta meeta rides high on the punchy chorus along with brilliant usage of strings is an excellently arranged song in Mohith chauhan's vocals. Kismat se, fairly ordinary tune works because of Shreya goshal's singing and some nice touches in the orchestration by Rahman results in average track in the whole album.

Verdict: Raunaq is a filmy album with nice compostions by A R Rahman but lacks enough punch for multiple listens

My Rating:7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Sach Kahoon, Aabhi Jaa, Laadli

Music Review(Tamil) : I

Music Review(Tamil) : I
Composer: A R Rahman

Aila Aila, works mainly because of grand orchestration, Opera styled fusion and some interesting beats. Aditya Rao and Natalie Di Luccio vocals apt for this song nevertheless Natalie's fangled tamil rendition irks at some places. Overall good experimentation in terms of the arrangement, but tune is average. Ladio, heavy on electronic sounds to scorch the dance floors but not for an casual listener. Madhan Karky lyrics overshadowed by techno beats and Nikitha gandhi vocals tandem with the mood of the song. Mersalayitaen, with its electronic beats and local lyrics sound bland without any imagination. Only interesting part is violin in the second interlude.The remix version better can be avoided as it offers nothing new. Soundtrack's best are the remaining melodies.

Ennodu Nee Irundhal, starts with a piano superseded by light drums throughout the song and the arrangement culminates with thumping guitar cum drum and heavy chorus. Sid Sriram has done his part well, but still Adiye remains his best. The reprise version of the song sounds better because of Chinmayee's breezy voice and pitch perfect tamil rendition compared to Sid Sriram. Pookale opens with enticing guitar hooks along with Haricharan's clear voice and Shreya's wonderful singing makes this melody instantly likeable. Sure chartbuster material and the second interlude reminds sahana from Sivaji.

Verdict: AR Rahman- Shankar's much hyped album is surely subpar compared to Rahman's work in 2014 nevertheless Shankar may spruce up the songs with visuals.

My Rating:7/10

Pick of the Album: Pookale, Ennodu Nee Irundhal (reprise), Aila Aila

Music Review (Tamil) - Kaaviya Thalaivan

Music Review (Tamil) - Kaaviya Thalaivan
Composer -Rahman

Aye Mr. Minor, Rahman takes us to Iruvar days, wonderful retro styled tune, with impeccable singing by Haricharan and Shashaa Tripati. Loved the usage of Mandolin and very soothing arrangement. Sandi Kuthirai, Rahman spruces up with quirky sounds throughout the song and Haricharan excelled in vocals with exuberant singing matches with the arrangement. This song seems to be tribute to yesteryear classical songs. Rahman garnishes the arrangement with occasional cartoonish sounds, trumpet and intermittant laughs. Arresting listen. Sollividu sollividu, starts with dark themed, frenetic sounds and Mukesh shows his diversity in singing be it pathos singing to stop the war at the end or energetic singing in the first half, he pulls off with ease. Thirupugazh, its Vani Jayaram's show throughout the song, she nails the classical rendition for the Arunagirinathar's verses and Rahman goes minimal in orchestration.

Vaanga Makka vanga, welcome song for nadaga sabha sang brilliantly by Haricharan and Dr. Narayanan. Rahman packed the song with mainly percussion instruments like Thavil, miridangam and Morsing sound along with brilliant veena in the first interlude. Next comes Yaarumilla with clarinet prelude and arrangement dominated by Tabla along wonderful chorus in the second interlude. Nonetheless Shwetha Mohan steals the show with her flawless rendition. Finally, Alli Arjuna 10 minutes long compilation of bit tracks with lyrics penned by Vaali and singing by Haricharan and Bela shende is mostly situational drama on marriage between Alli and Arjuna. Loved the nadhaswaram in Vandhanam and folky tune in Alli varugiral. Then songs turns heavy with percussions in Naan Annathooviyil and finally ends with gettimelam and drums dominating Nenju Porukudhillaye.


My Pick of the album: Sanda Kuthirai, Aye Mr. Minor, Yaarumilla

My Rating :8.5/10

Verdict: Rahman delivers the period album in deftly manner like the only way he can and ably supported by all singers. Hope songs will be visual treat in the movie.

You can listen to the songs here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idZ-5amTsHA&list=PLR4czbB8dznwb6GmKME6Yg9qewDyiARKw

Kadal- Music review

Hi guys.....

Many MNC guys may be enjoying the weekend but for me same blunted office may be because of less work feeling like this way at times came across the beautiful and soulful composition by ARR and Maniratnam combo -Kadal. Thought I'll just share my views regarding this wonderful album.

1) Chithirai Nila:
         Mozart commenced the song with a child cry and  Vijay yesudas's soulful rendition abided by Vairamuthu's hopeful lyrics makes the song enjoyable. Arrangement wise Rahman kept it simple with minimal strings and ending the song with high note.

2) Anbin Vasale :
        Haricharan's sprightly singing blends well with  wonderful harmonized chorus and the ambient sounds like bells set the right tone for the gospel song. Still felt this song is sub-par with the beautiful Anbendra Mazhaiyile. Rahman use of strings and percussion instruments gives nice effect to the overall structure of the song.
   
3) Adiye:
       Next comes Aaromale styled high pitch singing by debutant Sid Sriram's Adiye and bluesy-Jazz arrangement of the song makes this a compelling listen. Plethora of instruments with Piano on the background, nice rock flavour with guitar and the percussions along with wonderful Vocals gives tremendous effect. Madhan Karky lyrics deserve special mention which amalgamates well with this genre of song. Experimentation at best.

4) Moongil Thottam:
      Melody comes with bang in this album with mellifluous voice by harini and debutant Abhay Jodhpur ably supported her well. Again Rahman did magic with Piano and string instruments.


5) Nenjukulle:
      MTV already made this country side folk music already smashing hit among the music listeners. Sakthishree gopalan got  much required break through her husky voice in this beautiful soothing melody. Violin and guitar rule this song and flute bits are additional nice touch.

6) Elay Keechan:
    Here comes the western fisherman song commensurates with the title of the movie.The clap portions and exuberant singing by Rahman along with chorus and the guitar solos in the background makes this song enjoyable.Liked the tune of charanam particularly well for its fast pace.

7) Magudi Magudi:
     Only song which i didnt like much is the solo techno sound song in the album. This song didnt gel with the other songs and also it is not nearly half engaging as other rahman songs like dol dol from ayutha ezhuthu.



Verdict: Overall Rahman makes us traverse through worldly musical genres through this beautiful album Kudos to Manirathnam for extracting this lovely album from Rahman.

My pick: Moongil Thottam, Nenjukulle, Elay Keechan

My Rating: 9/10