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

Weekly Earworm - Week 12

Weekly Earworm - Week 12 

Plan Panni Pannanum (Tamil): Yuvan Shankar Raja: Kanave Urave: The Deja Vu factor aside, Yuvan Shankar Raja's Kanave Urave rides on Shreya Goshal's vocals. Yuvan kept the arrangements neat and simple by giving Babu's strings dominant space and the gentle rhythm structure to complement Shreya's rendition.

Love Story (Telugu): Pawan Ch: Ay Pilla: Ay Pilla is a quintessential Sekhar Kammula song where the director brings out Mickey J Meyer's musical sensibilities throughout the song. Nevertheless, the tune by Pawan is lovely with lovely string arrangements in the background and Haricharan behind the mic pulls off the singing part impeccably.

Master (Tamil): Anirudh Ravichander: Vaathi Coming: Anirudh milking his Chuma Kizhi and Marana Mass structure for Vijay's Vaathi coming also with the gibberish lyrics. But despite the catchy bit, the song turns out to be tiresome listen and the visuals may work well with the song.

Uppena (Telugu): Devi Sri Prasad: Dhak Dhak Dhak: DeviSri Prasad digresses from his usual template sounds when Sukumar involves in the project and Dhak Dhak belongs to the category. Though the concept reminds us of the Prashant Pillai's wonderful Ayalathe in Angamaly diaries, DSP's Dhak Dhak has its own charm with the lovely violin solo towards the end.

VakeelSaab (Telugu): Thaman: Maguva Maguva: After Samajavaragamana, Thaman tries to repeat the success of the song with the similarly structured song and roping in Sid Sriram to sing. Though, the tune falls flat compares to Samajavaragamana, Thaman makes up for it with the lovely arrangements in the background.

V (Telugu): Amit Trivedi: Vasthunna Vachesthunna, Manasu Maree: Amit Trivedi's solo Telugu album after the multilingual Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy and going by the two songs released, Amit Trivedi did a spectacular job especially the lovely Vasthunna Vachesthunna. Though Amit Trivedi's singing is a minor grouse in both the songs, the tunes make up for it. Vasthunna Vachesthunna phrase is definitely explosive one and Shreya Goshal aces the rendition. Manasu Maree features the lovely Saxophone and the tune is quintessential Amit Trivedi's territory while Shashaa Tripati did a wonderful work with her rendition as always.

Pick of the Week: Vasthunna Vachesthunna, Ay Pilla, Manasu Maree

Music Review (Tamil/Telugu): Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy

Music Review (Tamil/Telugu): Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy is one of the highly anticipated movies of the year with the brilliant line of actors Chiranjeevi, Amitabh Bachan, Vijay Sethupathi, Sudeep, Nayantara and Tamanaah. Amit Trivedi marks his south Indian debut with this soundtrack and the composer undeniably leaves his stamp in the tracks but with the mixed bag of tunes.

Paaraai Narasimha Nee Paaraai/ Jaago Narasimha Jaagore starts off beautifully with the serene prelude with the mellow Vishnu Vijay's flute paves way for the thunderous chorus sections. Though the tune is strictly perfunctory and dominated by percussion, Amit Trivedi packaged with the gorgeous Dilshad Khan's Sarangi and Seenu's strokes. Shankar Mahadevan, Haricharan and Anurag Kulkarni easily ace the rendition of Karky/ Srivennela Seetharama Sastry's glorifying lyrics about Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy. Angam Unnidam/ Andam Ankitam: The tune fits well with the Anantha Sriram's lyrics than Karky's, however, the tune falters after an initial high. Nevertheless, Shashaa Tripati shines with her hypnotic rendition and ably supported by Vijay Prakash. Once again Amit Trivedi easily scores with the arrangements and this track is adorned by Kishore's Sitar and Punya Srinivas's veena especially look out for the melange of sounds amidst the jathis by Shashaa.

O..Syeraa: As expected the title song has a pompous orchestration but comes off as generic one except for the Seenu's contribution from the Saz/sarod in the interludes. The composer brings together Sunidhi Chauhan and Shreya Ghoshal despite the latter appears only for the 40 seconds towards the end. Amit Trivedi ends the soundtrack with the anthemic Swaasalona Desame/Suvasamaagum Desame and though the track sounds too modern for the period of the movie, the composer did a wonderful job with respect to the arrangements especially the splendid first interlude with the thrumming percussion segues beautifully with the Naveen Kumar's stunning flute solo. Haricharan aces the rendition as usual

Verdict: Amit Trivedi matches the grandeur of the movie and the tracks are packaged well with the arrangements nevertheless one wishes that tunes could have been much better.

My Rating: 7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Andam Ankitam, Swaasalona Desame

Music Roundup - 2018

Music Roundup - 2018

It's the time of the year and obviously, every site or blog spots will come up with the list and I also join the bandwagon with this post.  But this year to really sums up, I couldn't review many of the albums I listened to because of my full-time work responsibilities. Hopefully planning to allocate proper time for the next year, maybe I can keep this as my goal for 2019. However, I was able to listen to the songs of most of the albums released in 2018 across Tamil, Telugu, Hindi and Malayalam languages. Obviously, the list and choices are purely personal and do share your list in the comments. It's always one can find good songs from the other's list and more is merrier.

Note: The list considers only the albums released till Dec 15 2018.

Tamil:

     The first half of 2018 is pretty tedious one as far as music is concerned with the solo outlier being the Nimir album by  Darbuka Shiva and Ajaneesh Loknath. Apart from the few released singles of ENPT (Ennai Nokki Paayum Thotta) both Darbuka Shiva and Ajaneesh Loknath doesn't have any other releases. The Second half of 2018 is the most exciting phase this year with the slew of beautiful albums from the prominent as well as young composers. AR Rahman had 3 releases this year- Chekka ChivanthaVaanam, 2.0 and Sarkar and the composer delivered his best to Manirathnam and However, Sarkar is a huge disappointment from the veteran except for the album's best Oru viral Puratchi. As Yuvan's fans repeatedly comments in social media about the composer's comeback album, but Yuvan really made a wonderful comeback particularly this year with the brilliant 3 albums Peranbu, Pyaar Prema Kaadhal, Genius and the solo song in Bharathiraja's Om.

    Coming to the young crop of composers without doubt Santosh Narayanan and Ghibran steals the show this year. Santosh Narayanan delivers big time in Kaala, critically acclaimed Parierum Perumal and Vada Chennai while Ghibran's music continues to be underrated despite beautiful songs in each and every album the composer scored till now in his career. Ghibran had Vishwaroopam2, Aan Devathai and astounding Raatchasan where composer's background score deserves great applause. The album of the year undeniably goes to 96 where Govind Vasantha easily bowls over every other album released this year. The album perfectly complements the matured love portrayed in the movie and the composer's another album Asooravatham also featured a couple of brilliant songs. Govind Vasantha shows immense promise with his third album Seethakathi also considering the singles released so far. Anirudh started off 2018 with the average Thaana Serndha Koottam followed up by peppy album Kolamaavu Kokila and the young composer grabbed Rajinikanth's Petta, but unfortunately, the album fails to ring the bells. Ilayaraja delivered a couple of hummable songs in 60 Vayadhu Maaniram while Merku Thodarchi Malai and Naachiyar feature the maestro's affecting background score, especially with the former film.

  Sam CS scored 9 albums in 2018 and the composer is consistent with respect to the quality of the songs and though none of the albums matched the composer's 2017 best Vikram Vedha. Thaman's revamped 2018 turns out to be a fruitful one with Sketch in the first quarter while DSP gave single standout song in Saamy sequel. Imman had Kadaikutty Singam, Seemaraja and Tik Tik Tik this year and none of the songs stick out except for Kurumba.

Composer of the year: Santosh Narayanan

Top 3 Tamil Albums of 2018

1) 96 - Govind Vasantha
2) Pariyerum Perumal - Santosh Narayanan
3) Peranbu - Yuvan Shankar Raja

Top Tamil songs of 2018

1) Vasantha Kaalangal - 96 - Govind Vasantha
2) Pottakaatil Poovasam - Pariyerum Perumaal - Santosh Narayanan
3) Naanagia Nadhimoolame - Vishwaroopam 2 - Ghibran
4) Bhoomi Bhoomi - Chekka Chivantha Vaanam - AR Rahman
5) Geedhara Kiliye - Nimir - Darbuka Shiva
6) Kannamma - Kaala -  Santosh Narayanan
7) Vaanthooral - Peranbu - Yuvan Shankar Raja
8) Pesugindren Pesugindren - Aan Devathai - Ghibran
9) Never Let me go - Pyaar Prema Kaadhal - Yuvan Shankar Raja
10) Oru Viral Puratchi - Sarkar - AR Rahman
11) Rowdy Baby - Maari 2
12) Arumbey - Kaali - Vijay Antony
13) Uyir Uruvaadha - Iravukku Aayiram Kangal - Sam CS
14) Ullaala - Petta - Anirudh
15) Kannanin Leelai - Vanjagar Ulagam - Sam CS

Songs worth mentioning

16) Kaarkuzhal Kadavaiye - Vadachennai - Santosh Narayanan
17) Pullinangal - 2.0 - AR Rahman
18) Hey Piriyame Piriyame - Raatchasan - Ghibran
19) Nenjil Maamazhai - Nimir - Ajaneesh Loknath
20) Saattayin Munayil - Om - Yuvan Shankar Raja
21) Kanna Enthan Thaaye - Amudha - Arun Gopan
22) Kalavarame - Thamizhpadam 2 - N Kannan
23) Kalyana Vayasu - Kolamaavu Kokila - Anirudh
24) Aladhi Anbai - Asuravatham - Govind Vasantha
25) Mayakkuraane - Annanukku Jai - Arrol Corelli
26) Yedhedho Aanene - Mr. Chandramouli - Sam CS
27) Adhiroobaney - Saamy Square - Devisri Prasad
28) Kodi Maangani - Party - Premgi Amaran
29) Kurumba - Tik Tik Tik - D Imman
30) Raja Raja Kula - NOTA - Sam CS

You can listen to the songs as a single playlist in  Jiosaavn.

Telugu:

   The Telugu music scene of 2018 belongs to Vivek Sagar and Gopi Sundar. Vivek Sagar delivers the stunning Sammohanam and Ee Nagaraniki Emaindhi and the composer continues to churn out the wacky songs in style. Gopi Sundar makes complete Telugu audience to groove for his immensely catchy Inkem Inkem Kaavale and turned that song into youth anthem. Composer delivers equally fine songs in Sailaja Reddy Alludu also but his other two releases Tej I Love you and Pantham turned out to be the dud affair. Anirudh Ravichander and Jakes Bejoy enter Tollywood in style with Agnyathavaasi and Taxiwala respectively. Sharreth returned to Tollywood after 4 years with Naa Nuvve and the composer leaves his indelible mark with some of the track in the album especially Chiniki Chiniki.2017's composer of the year Radhan has very muted year with Hushaaru and Manasuku Nachindi while another underrated composer Achu delivered brilliant track Rakshasi in Neevevaro (Adhe Kangal's Telugu remake). Ajaneesh Loknath debuts in Tollywood with Kirik Party's remake and the composer choose to stick with the original tunes and followed up with pretty solid album Nannu Dochukunduvate. Sandeep Chowta gave remarkable tracks in Mehbooba

   Mickey J Meyer breezes through with the Mahanati soundtrack and sticks to his signature tunes in Srinivasa Kalyanam. Apart from Rangasthalam, none of the albums of DSP makes the cut. Thaman revamps his style of music in 2018 and it's a rewarding year for him with Gayatri, Tholi Prema and Chal Mohan Ranga being the notable one for the composer. Vishal Chandrasekhar ends the year with the splendid Padi Padi Leche Manasu. Prashanth R Vihari marks his presence this year with Chi La Sow and melodious outing in Antariksham.

Composer of the year: Vivek Sagar

Top 3 Telugu Albums of 2018

1) Sammohanam - Vivek Sagar
2) Agnyaathavaasi - Anirudh
3) Padi Padi Leche Manasu - Vishal Chandrashekar

Top Telugu Songs of 2018

1) Inkem Inkem Kaavale - Geetha Govindam - Gopi Sundar
2) Oohalu Ooreke Gaalanthaa - Sammohanam - Vivek Sagar
3) Samayama - Antariksham 9000 KMPH - Prashanth R Vihari
4) Yentha Sakkagunnave - Rangasthalam - Devisri Prasad
5) O My Lovely Lalana - Padi Padi Leche Manasu - Vishal Chandrasekhar
6) Sada Nannu - Mahanati - Mickey J Meyer
7) Pilla Raa - RX 100 - Chaitan Bharadwaj
8) Gaali Vaaluga - Agnyaathavaasi - Anirudh
9) Rakshasi Rakshasi - Neevevaro - Achu
10) Maate Vinadhuga - Taxiwaala - Jakes Bejoy
11) Aagi Aagi - Ee Nagaraniki Emaindhi - Vivek Sagar
12) Oh Priyaa Naa Priya - Mehbooba - Sandeep Chowta
13) O Cheli Thaara - Sammohanam - Vivek Sagar
14) Ardham Leni Navvu - Chal Mohan Ranga - Thaman
15) Inthe Inthena - Nannu Dochukunduvate - Ajaneesh Loknath

Songs worth mentioning

16) Chiniki Chiniki - Naa Nuvve - Shareth
17) Mellaga Mellaga - Chi La Sow - Prashanth R Vihari
18) Yenti Yenti - Geetha Govindam - Gopi Sundar
19) Pelli Pandhiri - Shailaja Reddy Alludu - Gopi Sundar
20) Neelo Ninnu - Kirrak Party - Ajaneesh Loknath
21) Bharat Ane Nenu - Bharat Ane Nenu - Devisri Prasad
22) Ninnila - Tholi Prema - Thaman
23) Thella Thella - Gayatri - Thaman
24) Asha Paasam - C/O Kancharapalem - Sweekar Agasthi
25) Dhaari Choodu - Krishnarjuna Yudham - HipHop Tamizha
26) Andhamaina Chandamama - Tej I Love You - Gopi Sundar
27) Na Na Na - Hushaaru - Radhan
28) Modhalaudhaam - Srinivasa Kalyanam - Mickey J Meyer
29) Mandaara - Bhaagamathie - Thaman
30) Ee Waiting - Idi Naa love story - Srinath Vijay

You can listen to the songs as a single playlist in JioSaavn.


Hindi:

    Hindi film music definitely belongs to Amit Trivedi this year and this is the busiest year for the composer with whooping 9 albums but unfortunately, he is unable to deliver well in all the albums. However the show stopper is definitely Anurag Kashyap's Manmarziyan, and the album is an enjoyable package brimming with Punjabi roots all across the tracks. The composer is equally brilliant in the critically acclaimed Andhadhun. SEL shines with Raazi while Rahman delivers an enjoyable couple of songs in Sanju. Ajay Atul involved in bigger Bollywood projects this year and Dhadak, the remake of Marathi Sairat is the winner with an irresistible set of songs though falls tad lower than the original. Thugs of Hindustan and Zero are relatively underwhelming affair from the duo. Shantanu Moitra's single release in 2018 is akin to the movie October, emotional set of melodies which tugs the strings of the heart. The surprising winner of 2018 is Niladri Kumar and Joi Barua's Laila Majnu and the composers deliver one of the fine album of this year. The multi-composer soundtrack which is routine in Bollywood fails most of the time, but the group of Indie musicians Prateek Khuhad, Anurag Saikia, Slow Cheetah and Imaad Shah did right in Karwaan.  Sneha Khanwalker returns in style with Manto. The main problem of the Hindi albums in recent years is the myriad number of remixes which is a huge turn off when one listens to Hindi music.

Composer of the year: Amit Trivedi

Top 3 Hindi albums of 2018

1) Manmarziyan - Amit Trivedi
2) Laila Majnu - Nildri Kumar and Joi Barua
3) Raazi - Shankar Ehsaan Loy

Top Hindi Songs of 2018

1) Bol Ke Lab Azaad Hain - Manto - Sneha Khanwalkar
2) Aahista - Laila Majnu - Niladri Kumar
3) Chonch Ladhiyaan - Manmarziyaan - Amit Trivedi
4) Ae Watan - Raazi - Shankar Ehsaan Loy
5) Chaav Laaga - Sui Dhaaga - Anu Malik
6) Hafiz Hafiz - Laila Majnu - Niladri Kumar
7) Sachhi Mohabbat - Manmarziyaan - Amit Trivedi
8) Binte Dil - Padmaavat - Sanjay Leela Bhansali
9) Ruby Ruby - Sanju - AR Rahman
10) Dhadak - Dhadak - Ajay-Atul
11) Naina Da Kya Kasoor - Andhadhun - Amit Trivedi
12) Tumbbad - Tumbbad - Ajay Atul
13) Bohot Dukha Mann - Mukkabaaz - Rachit Arora
14) Dilbaro - Raazi - Shankar Ehsaan Loy
15) Kamariya - Stree - Sachin Jigar

Songs worth mentioning:

16) Soorma Anthem - Soorma -  Shankar Ehsaan Loy
17) Monobina - Gold - Tanishq Bagchi
18) Heartquake - Karwaan - Anurag Saikia
19) Manwaa - October - Shantanu Moitra
20) Kuch Anoke Rules - 102 Not Out - Salim Sulaiman
21) Ghoomar - Padmaavat - Sanjay Leela Bhansali
22) Aaj Se Teri - Padman - Amit Trivedi
23) Hello Hello - Pataakha - Vishal Bhardwaj
24) Tafreeh - Bhavesh Joshi Superhero - Amit Trivedi
25) Vashmalle - Thugs of Hindostan - Ajay Atul
26) Kya Kahoon Janeman - Namaste England - Mannan Shaah
27) This party is over now - Mitron - Yo Yo Honey Singh
28) Badhaaiyan Tenu - Badhaai Ho - Tanishk Bagchi
29) Oye Hichki - Hichki - Jasleen Royal
30) Jaan Nisaar - Kedarnath - Amit Trivedi

You can listen to the songs as a single playlist in JioSaavn.

Malayalam:

     Malayalam Industry always churns out pure beautiful melodies and 2018 is not different but unfortunately, I couldn't follow up every album which got released. So this list may miss up any songs which may be quite popular among the listeners who follow up Malayalam closely. Nevertheless, I'll list of the songs which I enjoyed pretty much in 2018.

Composer of the year: Shaan Rahman

Top 3 Malayalam albums of 2018:

1) Aravindante Athidikal - Shaan Rahman
2) Poomaram - Assorted composers
3) Aami - M Jayachandran

Top Malayalam Albums of 2018

1) Endhe Kanna - Aravindante Athidikal - Shaan Rahman
2) Njano Ravo - Kammara Sambhavam - Gopi Sundar (Not available in Saavn)
3) Pranayamayi Radha - Aami - M Jayachandran
4) Arikilundu Njaanengilum - Poomaram - Vishnu Sivasankar(Not available in Saavn)
5) Kaathangal - Swathanthiram Ardharathriyil - Jakes Bejoy
6) Jeevamshamayi - Theevandi - Kailas Menon
7) Rasathi - Aravindante Athidikal - Shaan Rahman
8) Kannaanthalir - Velakkariyayirunnalum Neeyen Mohavalli - Viswajith
9) Mama Sa Bibo - Iblis - Dawn Vincent
10) Pranayapoo - Oru Kuprasidha Payyan - Ouseppachan
11) Kanne Kanne - Mandharam -  Mujeeb Majeed
12) Kadavathoru Thoni - Poomaram - Gireesh Kuttan
13) Kannum Kannum - Vikadakumaran - Rahul Raj(Not available in Saavn)
14) Nenjinulil - Thattumpurathu Achuthan - Deepankumaran(Not available in Saavn)
15) Thodu Thodu - Angane Njanum Preminchu - Hesham Abdul Wahab

 Songs worth mentioning

16) Ente Shivane- Kuttanpillayude Sivarathri- Sayanora Philip
17) Aararo - Koode - Raghu Dixit
18) Ore Nila Ore Veyil - B Tech - Rahul Raj
19) Nilapakshi - Maradona - Sushin Shyam
20) Karineela Kannulla Pennu - Joseph - Ranjin Raj
21) Neelaravil - Nithyaharitha Nayakan - Ranjin Raj
22) Kurrah - Sudani from Nigeria - Rex Vijayan
23) Elampadi Elelo - Oru Kuttanadan blog - Sreenath Shivashankaran
24) Mulla Poovithalo - Abrahaminte Santhathikal - Gopi Sundar
25) Meenukal Vannupoyi - Hey Jude - Ousepachan
26) Kalariyadavum - Kayamkulam Kochunni - Gopi Sundar

You can listen to the songs as a single playlist in JioSaavn.


Kannada:

   Similar to Malayalam, I haven't followed up each and every album released in Kannada but some of the melodies churned out by the music composers makes me list out those songs. Composer of the year is undeniably Charan Raj whose Tagaru and the Jeerjimbe (which secured Karnataka state film award for best music director) are the impressive albums I listened in Kannada this year. The two songs which got released in Jeerjimbe till now are splendid and not sure whether any more songs are there.  The other notable releases were Sachin Warrier's Katheyondu Shuruvaagide, Vasuki Vaibhav's Sarkari Hi.Pra. Shaale, Kasaragodu, Koduge:Ramanna Rai and Bindumalini's NathiCharami.

Composer of the year: Charan Raj

Best Kannada Albums of 2018

1) Tagaru - Charan Raj
2) Nathicharami - Bindhumalini
3) Katheyondu Shuruvagide - Sachin Warrier

Top Kannada songs of 2018

1) Arere Avala Naguva - Sarkari Hi.Pra. Shaale, Kasaragodu - Vasuki Vaibhav
2) Mental Ho Jawa - Tagaru - Charan Raj
3) Dheemtha - Katheyondu Shuruvagide - Sachin Warrier
4) Bhaavaloka - Nathicharami - Bindhumalini
5) Balma - Tagaru - Charan Raj
6) Vasundhare - Nathicharami - Bindhumalini
7) Yaako Yeno - Jeerjimbe - Charan Raj
8) Holeva Holeyaachege - Ammachi Yemba Nenapu - Pt Kashinath Pattar
9) Shaakuntle Sikkalu - Naduve Antaravirali - Kadri Manikanth
10) Jaleela - Ambi Ning Vayassaytho - Arjun Janya
11) Nooraaru Bannagalu - Sarkari Hi.Pra. Shaale, Kasaragodu - Vasuki Vaibhav
12) Hosa Padmavathi - Johnny Johnny Yes Papa - Ajaneesh Loknath

You can listen to the songs as a single playlist in JioSaavn.

Music Review (Hindi): Kedarnath

Music Review (Hindi): Kedarnath 
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

Namo Namo is smartly done remastered version of Amit Trivedi's Acheche Din from Fanney Khan where composer wonderfully insinuated the title hook and Kishore's Sitar does all magic to make the listeners hook till the end. Amit Trivedi delivers the tune effortlessly and brings the mood effectively with the chorus. Amit Trivedi churns out the delightful melody in Qaafirana where Arijit Singh and Nikhita Gandhi strike it big with the vocals especially husky Nikhita's vocals. Paras Nath's flute compliments the composer's sweet melody brilliantly. Though Sweet Heart is undeniably generic one from the tune to the arrangements, the track is sure enough to stay in the charts. The only solace being the Tapas Roy's Strokes in the arrangements. Jaan Nisaar comes in two versions with Arijit and Asees crooning the beautiful acoustic track and the soft rock arrangements gently embrace the listener's mood and complements the relaxing tune.

Verdict: Kedarnath definitely fails up to the benchmark set by the composer's previous collaboration with the director (Fitoor and Kai Po Che), however Amit Trivedi wins big in Qaafirana and Jaan Nisaar.

My Rating: 7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Qaafiraana, Jaan Nisaar(Asees Version)

Music Review (Hindi): Manmarziyaan

Music Review (Hindi): Manmarziyaan
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi 

Amit Trivedi brings back his Udta Punjab vibes in Manmarziyaan where traditional Punjabi sounds mixed modern techno sounds which are sprinkled all throughout this 1 hour long soundtrack. F for Fyaar sung by one of the movie's lead Vicky Kaushal and the modern Punjabi track is incomplete without the rap and it's fulfilled by Sikander Kahlon. Though the rap portions are the pedestrian affair, Amit Trivedi's synth sounds on the background of groovy tune gives the album a good start. Amit Trivedi brings out his best in Daryaa, which starts with the soothing prelude and the flute portions are heavenly. The tracks turn into an anthemic soft rock with oh-oh chorus reaching crescendo gives way to the splendid first interlude. The brilliant song ends with the 1 minute long flute version of the Pallavi. However the song's unplugged version by Deveshi Sahgal pales in comparison with Shahid Mallya's vocals. Though, Amit did a brilliant work with respect to the guitar-laden arrangements especially the lovely first interlude. 

Composer churned out another winner, this time with the duet melody, Grey Waala Shade crooned by delightful Harshdeep Kaur and Jazim Sharma. The simple melody and the catchy hook by Ishq nazariya and Shelle's lyrics about the new age love makes this one an instant chartbuster in the album. Dhyaan Chaand is another funky Punjabi dance track where the free-flowing lyrics of Shellee along with Amit Trivedi's likable tune makes this one a listenable track till it lasts. Harshdeep Kaur and Jazim Sharma joins hands again for another beautiful folk melody and the Esraj bits are vintage Amit Trivedi which makes me to replay some of the composer's hits from Kai Po Che and Guddu Rangeela. The way Harshdeep sings Naache is lovable and makes me to hit the replay button. Sheele lyrics about the feeling of love where he makes everyone do a dance of love from Alexander to cities of Jalandhar and Amritsar. Amit Trivedi brings in Jyoti Nooran and gives her the dark melancholy Hallaa with the tinge of Sufi touch in the tune while completely the background is revamped with the punchy synth sounds. Jyoti Nooran aces the singing as usual where Shelle brings out the complex emotions of love vividly with the hard-hitting lyrics.  

Sachhi Mohabbat takes me instantly to Composer's Sooiyaan, the tender folksy tune and the esraj combination which Amit aces it like a pro. The Shehnai in the first interlude accompanied by Jonita Gandhi's vocals makes this one another instant chartbuster in the album.  Jaisi Teri Warzi starts off with the heartfelt rendition by Harshdeep Kaur backed by minimal arrangements and turns into the punchy Punjabi background with the entry of Bhanu Pratap Singh. However, the melody along with the singer's rendition makes this one works. Bijlee Giregi is a headbanging trance which brings out the female leads fiery character and I wish that the song could have been crooned by some female singer instead of band of male singers.  

Kundali is much more enthralling despite with the trance background and the amusing factor is mostly due to Shelle's superb lyrics and the tinge of retro sounds sprinkled generously. Jala di is the usual Punjabi track with techno twist but the song hardly works because of the jaded tune and the arrangements. Fyaar Pe Duniya also falls on the same category as Jala di despite Alamgir Khan's superlative singing. Amit Trivedi ends the soundtrack with the short enriching trance track Sherni and the haunting background works like charm.

Verdict: Anurag Kashyap brings out Amit Trivedi from slump and extract the best work from the talented composer and the 14 track album broadly traces out the best of Amit Trivedi from the manic Udta Punjab to soulful Kai Po che.

My Rating: 9/10

Pick of the Album: Grey Waala Shade, Chonch Ladhiyaan, Daryaa, Sachhi Mohabbat, Halla

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

Music Review (Hindi): Bhavesh Joshi Superhero

Music Review (Hindi): Bhavesh Joshi Superhero
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi
 
Amit Trivedi channels his Udtaa Punjab mode in Hum Hain Insaaf and the songs works despite being the lingering hangover form the soundscape to Babu Haabi and Naezy's vocals. The rap portions work brilliantly and the title hook is adequately catchy stuff from the composer. Chavanprash's soundscape and the average tune is prodded by Divyakumar's splendid vocals. However, the song fizzles out sooner and turns out to be monotonous listen even though few nifty guitar riffs by Sanjoy Das. Amit Trivedi reserved the best song of the soundtrack to himself. Tafreeh works magically with the steady progressing tune and the hypnotic rhythm adds charm to the beautiful tune. Look out for the brilliant mixing in the interludes and Amit Trivedi aces the singing part effectually. The composer ends the track with the punctuating rock sound lead by Rhythm Shaw's fabulous guitar solos. Amit Trivedi delivers another winner with the serene tuned Qasam Kha Ali and once again the enchanting rhythm along with Papon's magical vocals makes this one works. 

Verdict: Though the soundtrack falls few notches below the Vikramaditya Motwane-Amit Trivedi combo, two tracks standout in this Amit Trivedi's latest album.

My Rating: 7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Tafreeh, Qasam Kha Ali, Hum Hain Insaaf

P.S: You can listen to the songs in Youtube.

Music Review (Hindi): Qaidi Band

Music Review (Hindi): Qaidi Band
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

Qaidi band soundtrack features two singers, Arijit Singh and Yashita Sharma as the film is about the band in the prison where the protagonists are leading vocals for the band. Arijit sounds quite different from his usual tone in most of the songs. 

       For the track titled I am India, the song sounds least patriotic and more of the celebratory festival music with the thumping percussions. However, the track is barely interesting one and even the title hook is also not a catchy stuff from the composer. The escape version sounds much better comparatively, mainly because of the harmonium and the consistent engaging background. Hulchul is the typical rock stuff from the composer with snazzy guitar strums in the interludes makes it an interesting listen despite treading on the familiar path of the composer. 

       Phir Nayi has an endearing melody sung by Yashita Sharma effectually while Amit layers the soft rock sound with a mesmerising flute solo and other sounds. Junooni lacks an arresting melody and soundscape becomes weary after initial few minutes. Udanchoo starts off in an interesting manner and the tune's intermittent surprises make this one an engaging listen. The arrangements are dominated by rock drums but with I'm India's flute version employed brilliantly along with the pleasant percussion sounds amidst the live drums. Apart from the deftly done bass line, Jag Mag has little to offer and the rap portions also come off as a pedestrian one. Poshampa is next to I'm India where Arijit's vocal is in another extreme from his usual tone and the track has nifty guitar strums backed by retro bass sounds. The highly energetic soundscape makes this one an enjoyable song in the soundtrack. The reprise version of Phir Nayi is also adequately engaging one, Thanks to Yashita's vocals and thumping march past rhythm in the background.

Verdict: Definitely not the composer's best despite the movie has the core theme as music and also not the bad one though. The album suffers mainly from the familiar Amit Trivedi's signature sounds in some of the songs.

My Rating: 8/10

Pick of the album: Phir Nayi/Phir wahi, Udanchoo, Poshampa

You can listen to the songs in Saavn.

Music Review (Hindi): Dear Zindagi

Music Review (Hindi): Dear Zindagi
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

Love you Zindagi, pleasant typical Amit Trivedi kind of composition with breezy arrangements dominated by affable mandolin strums amidst the playful trumpets. Jasleen Royal of Preet fame does the singing in a pretty engaging manner with her mighty unique vocals. However, the club mix falls flat with Alia Bhatt's processed vocals and Amit kept the arrangements upbeat as the title suggests. Just go to hell also screams that it's Amit Trivedi behind the music, however the violin solos and passionate singing by Sunidhi Chauhan makes this one easily works. The soft rock arrangements work like charm as always in Amit Trivedi composition. The celebration of breakup continues in Dear Zindagi also after Ae Dil Hai Mushkil with Let's breakup and the deja-vu feel in the tune is barely negligible while Vishal Dadlani hooks the listener with his energetic rendition.

The remaining soundtrack belongs to the current favourite singer in Bollywood, Arijit Singh and the singer aces all the songs like a pro. Tu Hi hai's likeable melody is accentuated by the deftly handled arrangements dominated by the pleasant mix of strings and Jazz drums. The jazz flavour is predominant in another engaging track, charming melody Taarefon Se and Amit packaged the tune with quite an enticing arrangements dominated by keys and blissful sax. The best song of the soundtrack is quite a surprising engaging remix of Ilayaraaja's Ae Zindagi Gale laga le and the maestro's tune remains immortal and the charm in the tune is irresistible. Arijit Singh is stupendous with his vocals equally complementing the Amit's wonderful background. The same cannot be claimed by the take 2 of the song by Alia bhatt and the song fails mainly because of lead singer's vocals. Amit kept the arrangements punchy synth dominated one, however Arijit's version scores much better than this version.

Verdict: Amit Trivedi's Dear Zindagi stays in the familiarity zone, however the songs are pleasant to hear and an engaging one.

My Rating: 8/10

Pick of the Album: Ae Zindagi Gale laga le, Taarefon Se, Tu hi hai, Just go to hell

P.S You can listen to the songs in Saavn

Music Review (Hindi): Udta Punjab

Music Review (Hindi): Udta Punjab
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

       Chitta Ve, loaded with immensely catchy electronic synth sounds with occasional chants of Udta Punjab. Though the prelude rap portions not up to the hilt, overall song is an incredibly engaging one due to Shahid Mallya's outburst vocals and Amit's soundscape especially brilliant rhythm hook along with Inapakurti's flute. Da Da Dasse's electronic soundscape has the gloomy vibe attached to it and the mood is accentuated by Babu Haabi's hoarse vocals. Kanika Kapoor aces with the lovely melody portion of the track aided by Amit's lounge'ish background rhythm. 

    Ikk Kudi, enchanting melancholy with Shahid Mallya's engrossing rendition and Amit kept the arrangeemnts minimal as well as ambience instrumentation especially lovely flute cum mild drums makes this one gorgeous listen in the album. The song's reprise version has Dilijit Dosanjh, leading Punjabi artist behind the mic and although his singing didn't work much when compared to Shahid's, Amit makes up for it by layering the melody with prominent rock tone handled by Darshan Doshi's drums and Rushad's bass guitar. Another power packed singer Vishal Dadlani in the credit list of the title song and the song is highly energetic as expected. Amit's brilliant modish tune along with Vishal's attitude and insanely catchy hook with lovely strings makes this one enjoyable till it lasts. Shahid Mallya croons another song in the album Hass Nach le in a fantastic manner while the tune is more conventional sounding one in the album. Amit spruces up the tune with lovely harmonium by Akhlak Hussain varsi ably supported by Raju Sardar's dhols. Amit Tivedi ends the soundtrack with another manic track  Vadiya similar to Chitta Ve and the techno laden track works here also mainly due to Amit's brilliant techno mix and vocals.

Verdict: Amit Trivedi's Udta Punjab is diametically different soundtrack from the composer's previous album fitoor. Udta Punjab has immensely engaging techno tracks with highly catchy sounds from one of the brilliant composer in the Indian music scenario.

My rating: 8.5/10

Pick of the Album: Ikk Kudi, Chitta Ve, Ud Daa Punjab

Music Review(Hindi): Fitoor

Music Review(Hindi): Fitoor
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

       Yeh Fitoor Mera's waltz based tune is complemented well by the fabulous string section and the tune slowly shifts towards the Amit Trivedi's comfortable zone of soft rock elements. Arijit Singh nails the lovely tune with his brilliant rendition and wonderfully done guitar work being the highlight of this typical Amit Trivedi number. Pashmina is another slow burner where Amit Trivedi's vocal accompanied with orchestral brilliance especially lovely violin solos and flute interspersed throughout the song makes this one lovely listen. Once again Amit brilliantly used drums and guitar work in a brilliant manner. 

        After Pashmina, Haminastu too features Kashmir Tribute in the form of fabulous arrangements with saz, Rabab and other haunting string sections amidst frenzy drum beats in the mid way. Zeb Bangash of Sooha Sooha from Highway fame delivers the eerie tune with her rustic awesome vocals. More awesomeness follows in Honedo Batiya where Amit creates a brilliant fusion of soft rock with middle Eastern string sections. Amit Trivedi roped another prolific singer Nandini Srikar along with Zeb Bangash and both ladies ace the rendition while Nandini's vocals make us yearn for her vocals to be used frequently by the composers. Chennai String orchestra showcased their prowess in Tere liye with their lovely string portions whereas Amit peppered it with the wonderful layer of live drums and guitar. Sunidhi Chauhan and Jubin Nautiyal props up the beautifully orchestrated tune with their effectual vocals. Sunidhi Chauhan returns again for final track in the album Rangaa Re and Amit Trivedi's arrangements treads on the simialr soundscape as Tere liye with occasional variance in the form of trance portions in the mid-way. The tune mainly rides on the Sunidhi's energetic rendition while the song's another version where Caralisa Monteiro's vocals bring quite an extensive variation when compared to the original version and ends up equally if not better than sunidhi's version.

Verdict: Amit Trivedi opens up his 2016 account with this splendid soundtrack and Amit delivers another fine winner for Abhishek Kappor after Kai Po Che.

My rating: 9/10

Pick of the Album: Just listen to the whole soundtrack you won't regret this. Honedo Batiya and Haminastu is a keeper in this awesome soundtrack.

You can listen to the soundtrack in Youtube.

Music Review (Hindi): Shaandaar

Music Review (Hindi): Shaandaar
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

       Gulaabo, already released as a single is downright fun track with Vishal Dadlani and Anvitta Dutt behind the mic with sprightly rendition. Amit Trivedi arrangements dominated by horn sections with occasional Dhols blends well with the tone of the song. In Shaam Shaandaar, Amit traverses from Dhol beats to techno dance themed sounds, but jiff of composer's earlier songs are unavoidable which is partly due to Amit Trivedi's singing. 

      Nazdeekiyaan has trademark Amit Trivedi's composition stamp all over it right from the tune and the way song progresses. Neethi Mohan and Nikhil Paul George breezes through the laid back composition (which reminds me behroopia)  in an effectual manner. Amit trivedi gives totally different type of song to Arijit Singh in Senti Wali mental while Neeti Mohan and Swanand Kirke ably supported him in this 9 minutes fun filled song. However highlight of the song is undeniable brilliant use of Saaz especially towards the start and end of the song while dhols and percussion dominate the remaining portions of the song. Overall fitting Sangeet song to the wedding based movie with amusing lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya. Another wedding based song Raitaa Phailgaya in the vocals of Divya Kumar and the song is pretty much functional track both in terms of tunes and also arrangements.

Verdict: Vikas Bahl's second outing with Amit Trivedi is not as effective as their previous combination, but still this one is funny and enjoyable listen.

My rating: 8/10

Pick of the Album: Nazdeekiyaan, Senti Wali Mental, Gulaabo

You can listen to the songs here.

Music Review (Hindi): Guddu Rangeela
Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

The Title song is signature Amit trivedi's tune with the nice folkish touches and sung well by composer itself along with Divya Kumar. The second interlude gives much-needed digression for the tune which flows monotonous and languishing. Remix version of the song is comparatively much better because of the peppiness and remix didn't go overboard unlike normal remix tracks. Sooiyan is mindbogglingly brilliant due to effectual singing of folkish tune by Arijit Singh and Chinmayi especially when the lead singers singing Sooiyan Sooiyan. Amit trivedi arranges the song with nice guitar work and brief banjo in the second interlude. Chinmayi got the second melodic track Sahebaan and this time too she aces in singing while Shahid Mallya joins her for brief time. Orchestration wise Amit uses esraj (which was used brilliantly in Kai po che too) quite beautifully and Mallya's rendition towards the end deserves special mention. Maata Ka email is the weakest song in the soundtrack composed by director Subhash Kapoor itself and one can simply skip the soundtrack.

Verdict: Amit delivers two engaging melodies after stupendous Bombay Velvet for Guddu Rangeela.

My rating:7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Sooiyan Sooiyan, Sahebaan, Guddu Rangeela

Music Review (Hindi): Bombay Velvet

Music Review (Hindi): Bombay Velvet

Music Composer: Amit Trivedi

Amit Trivedi opens up his jazzy soundtrack in high with Aam Hindustani, and the track has nearly 3 minutes long prelude itself. Before Shevali Alvares confident vocals begins, Amit welcomed to his era using soothing clarinets followed by celebratory Jazzy elements thrown generously using trumpets. trombones and keys. Shefali is having great time crooning this number and particularly loved the 'hichki' sound in the middle.Amits ends the 9-minute long track again in the high with enough support from Shefali. Neeti Mohan opens her account in inebriated style with Mohabbat Buri Bimari (version 2) and initial prelude drums reminiscent of whiplash movie. This song has an accessible tune and level of the song is totally accentuated by spirited rendition of Neeti Mohan. Once again in the arrangements jazz flavours dominates with enough support from double bass and string sections. Mohabbat Buri Bumari (version 3) has everything from lyrics to arrangements kept intact as in version 2 except for coarse rendition by Shefali and she did equally good as Neeti Mohan. Mohabbat Buri Bimari's version 1 remixed by Mikey Mcleary and Shalmali Kholgade behind the mic. Shalmali's fangled rendition suits this song ver well and like her singing than the other two singers, however jazzy sound created by Mikey is a bit more jarry compared to rhythmic version of Amit.

Neeti Mohan got whooping five solo songs in the album and she shines in each one of them. Ka Kha Ga Gha (starting four alphabets in Hindi and Kudos to Amitabh Bhattacharya for filling this in beautiful way in lyric. Thanks Bollymeaning). is another engaging melody crooned with perfection by Neeti and Amit owns the song with splendid combination of brass ansd keys. Dhadaam Dhadaam seems to be melancholy while both Neeti and Amit brings the feel in singing and arrangements respectively. Strings, key sections and occassional clarinet solos complements the mood of the song. Amit played down the jazz elements minimal while rising the tempo towards the end. Naak Pe Gussa's Jazz elements sporadically rides high while Neeti's singing seems to be extension of Dhadaam Dhadaam. Amit brings back his boisterous play of trumpets and trombones in Sylvia. Once again Neeti rules the track with enough support from backing vocals towards the end. Occassional bongos amidst celebratory jazzy sounds is nice touch from the composer. Nethi Mohan ends her contribution to the album with Behroopia which is contemporary compared to other songs in the soundtrack.She gets ample support from another co-singer Mohit Chauhan and song is quite Amit Trived'ish although lovely melody from the composer. Trumpet rules the song in the arrangements. 

Shefali Alvares returns in the soundtrack with Shut Up and liked the peppy upbeat brass sections in the background than her rendition At some places her rendition goes overboard and ends in jarring note. Darbaan is the only solo track by male playback singer in the album and Papon delivers it well in engaging manner. Once again trumpet steals the show and minute long trumpet in the second interlude is brilliant. Bombay Velvet theme has nothing to offer for initial one and half minutes but the interplay between brass sections and guitars in the midway is awesome. Tommy gun reminds birdman soundtrack and it is appealing among the instrumental tracks. Conspiracy is also engaging enough especially for its sweeping string sections.

Verdict: Anurag Kashyap brings out best although confined only in jazz genre from Amit Trivedi after their stupendous album Dev D. Bombay Velvet is Amit's answer to Birdman/Whiplash.

My rating: 9.5/10

Pick of the Album: Mohabbat Buri Bhimari(version 2), Aam Hindustani, Ka Kha Ga Gha, Sylvia, Behroopia.