Weekly Earworm (24/10/2020)

Ghibran's spiritual series (Tamil): Ghibran: Saraswathi Dayai Nidhi: Ghibran's spiritual series moved away from heavily orchestration based arrangements and throws in lovely veenai solos by Haritha Raj in this composition. The innate beauty of the Saraswathi Raga based composition by Papanasam Shivan is complemented by serene arrangements and delightful singing by Pragathi Guruprasad.

Soorarai Pottru (Tamil): GV Prakash Kumar and Thaikkudam bridge: Aagasam: GV Prakash reused Thaikkudam bridge's composition Urumbu from Navarasam. The singer Christin Jose is retained while Govind Vasantha enters towards the end and finishes the punchy composition in crescendo. The motivational lyrics written by Arunraja Kamaraj blends well with the lively tone of the song.

Arijit Singh: Ore Nutan Juger Bhore: The serene composition by Rabindranath Tagore is propped up by stunning Sarod played by Soumik Dutta which complements more like another singer throughout the song and watch out for the lovely solo in the interlude. Arijit Singh aces the soulful rendition effectually and it's good to see Arijith's independent composition come up with the English subtitles for the lyrics. Wish others also follow suit.

Bhoomi (Tamil): Imman: Kadai Kannaaley: Imman strikes a chord once again with Shreya Goshal and Thanks to the beautiful tune and singers impeccable rendition. The melody turns more interesting in the charanam portions with the phrase 'vizhiyai imaiyai virithae unai'. Overall the vocals and Thamarai's alluring choice of words make this one an engaging listen.

Taish (Hindi): Govind Vasantha, Prashanth Pillai: Re Bawree, Roshni Si: Bejoy Nambiar's another multi composer soundtrack where Govind Vasantha easily scores the best with the effective Re Bawree. The song comes in two versions as a duet sung by the composer himself along with Prarthna Indrajith and another one with Sona Mohapatra in the lead vocals. The progressive rock and semi-classical tune blend well together and the duet version too works beautifully while the more serene Sona's version is propped up by the lead vocals. Prashant Pillai's hypnotic trance Roshni si with Josi Alapuzha and Sriram Sampath's intermittent flute solos is another enjoyable track in this multi composer album. Though Bejoy Nambiar's Taish is not as intriguing as the director's solo or David, these couple of tracks stand out.

Halal Love story (Malayalam): Bijibal: Muttath: Bijibal's Muttath, a simple heartwarming melody backed by Sandeep Mohan's guitar is soothing to listen in the vocals of Soumya Ramakrishnan. 

You can listen to the songs as a Youtube playlist

Music Review (Tamil): Seeru

Music Review (Tamil): Seeru
Music Composer: Imman

Shivam Mahadevan debuts as a singer in Tamil with Vaa Vasuki and the vocals have undeniable traces of Shankar Mahadevan especially when he goes as Vaa Vasuki. Though the tune sounds commonplace, the track engages until it lasts mainly due to vocals despite autotuning at certain places. Kannaala Poduraaley has tiring lyrics from both Viveka and RJ Vijay tries hard to make the jokes amusing. However, Nakash Aziz easily sells this song with his sprightly rendition despite the tune and arrangements from Imman are strictly functional one dominated by Imman's signature racy percussions.

The soundtrack's undeniable highlight is Sevvanthiye and Imman does his best when he channels his Inner Ilayaraja and the composer brings back the memories of Aanandha Ragam from Panneer Pushpangal. The track begins with the lovely solo violin prelude by Karthik Iyer and Thirumoorthy aces the song with his pitch-perfect rendition. The female version's arrangements sound jarring especially with the incoherent mixing of Veena and jazzy soundscape intermittently. However, Vaikom Vijayalakshmi fits the bill perfectly and complements Male version impeccably. Among the two short tracks, Vasana Poochenda sounds better with all the composer elements intact along with the breezy rendition by Rajaganapathy while Ignite the fire theme sounds predictable and passes muster. One wishes that Imman could have turned Vasana Poochenda into the full-fledged track rather than under two-minute short song.

Verdict: Barring the single gem of the album in the form of Sevvanthiye, Imman's score for Seeru rides on the predictable set of tunes.

My Rating: 6.5/10

Pick of the Album: Sevvanthiye (male version), Vaa Vasuki

P.S You can listen to the songs in JioSaavn. The edited version of the review is published in Moviecrow.

Music Review (Tamil): Namma Veettu Pillai

Music Review (Tamil): Namma Veettu Pillai
Music Composer: Imman

Imman continues his hackneyed punchy rhythm to the dead beat in Yenga Annan however the classical inclinations in the interludes by Karthik Iyer's solo violin is an interesting deflection from the Imman's predictable rhythms and tune. Nakash Aziz and the exuberant Sunidhi Chauhan makes this one an enjoyable listen despite the cliched lyrics from Vignesh Shivan. Imman easily scores the winner right from the prelude in Mailaanji where Imman's usual Shreya Goshal easily aces the rendition as always and joined by another brilliant singer Pradeep Kumar. The arrangements are consistently engaging especially Prakash Sontakke's slide guitar while the punctuating Charanam is an effortless winner from the composer.

Unkoodave Porakkanum is pretty much ordinary nothing extraordinary to boast, however, the neat arrangements and Sid Sriram singing make this one an enjoyable listen till it lasts. The folk touches in the male version is pulled out and Nathan's woodwinds play a major role. Shashaa Tirupati's rendition makes the female version much more enjoyable compared to the male version. The tune's beauty is more apparent with the soothing flute portions. Jigiri Dosthu has an exciting prelude in Imman's repertoire played for more than one minute, the percussions played with dramatic pauses followed by the retro jazz, Thanks to Maxwell's Trumpet. The tune evokes the memories of Petta's Aaha Kalyanam especially the retro fast-paced tune structure and the brass band to prod the proceedings of the song. Puduvaisithan Jayamoorthy and Anthakudi Ilayaraja scores with the effortless rendition. Gaanda Kanazhagi is the weakest song even though the hype surrounding the Sivakarthikeyan's lyrics and Anirudh's singing. The tune hardly evokes any interest and the lyrics are also pedestrian one. Manonmani's Sarangi being the only solace in an otherwise laborious listen. Namma Veettu Pillai theme mainly follows the Jigi Dosth's soundscape crooned by Arun Raja Kamaraj, Though nothing extraordinary to offer, the theme is adequate which fills in every commercial requirement. Sruthi Balamurali ends the soundtrack with the violin version of Unkoodave Porakkanum and the soulful violin blends well with the emotional undertone in the song.

Verdict: Namma Veettu Pillai is Imman's better-packaged album in recent times and the tunes are consistently enjoyable despite strictly revolving around known Imman's templates.

My Rating: 7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Mailaanji, Unkoodave Porakkanum (Female version), Jigiri Dosthu

P.S The edited version of the review is published in Moviecrow.

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

Music Review (Tamil): Kennedy Club

Music Review (Tamil): Kennedy Club
Music Composer: Imman

Though Kabbadi Kabbadi screams on the face that Imman is behind the score, the track works largely thanks to Resmi Sateesh who sang the powerful song in the Malayalam film Urumi earlier. Suriya Badrinath and Srinidhi ably support her. The arrangements are typical Imman forte where the punching rhythm which reminds of the composer's earlier songs. The male version of the song is largely the same except for the Deepak's vocal and Viveka's lyrics. Comparatively, the female version works much better because of the superlative singing. Unnaale Unnaaley Mudiyadhendral's is significantly different from the usual tone one can hear for the motivational track if one goes by the lyrics of Viveka. Vijay Yesudas's earnest singing and the splendid usage of Seenu's stringed instruments in the second interlude are the highlights in an otherwise prosaic tune churned out by Imman.

Imman brings in another North Indian singer Keerthi Sagathia to Kollywood for Mattakku Mattakku and he manages to deliver the tune with the occasional slip up in the diction. The tune is largely pedestrian one rides mainly on the vigorous fast rhythm. The arrangements are overdone which comes across as the loud song and the title hook is so Hindi'ish for the Tamil song. Vaaraan  unna Vachiseyya Poraan is another garish track with the band of singers Santosh Hariharan, Shenbagaraj, Vignesh Narayanan and Deepak. Manoj's solo violin bits got wasted amidst the cacophonous soundscape and Viveka's equally threatening lyrics especially Mavane Mavane part. Imman ends the soundtrack with another motivational track Vali Thaangidum Vaazhkai crooned by Keerthi Sagathia. The short duration of the track and the pretty much functional arrangements doesn't work to its favour.

Verdict: Imman's latest soundtrack is unwarrantedly loud and filled with largely flashy motivational tracks without any finesse in the tunes.

My Rating: 6.5/10

Pick of the Album: Kabaddi Kabaddi (Female version)

P.S The edited version of the review is published in Moviecrow.

Music Review (Tamil): Pon Manickavel

Music Review (Tamil): Pon Manickavel
Music Composer: Imman

Imman gives a wonderful start to the album with the unusual tune for Uthira Uthira with the shades of Ding Dong Kovil mani. Shreya Goshal and Imman combination hardly goes wrong and Uthira Uthira is no exception. The sensual rendition by Shreya and Imman's tune makes this one an enjoyable listen while Karky impresses with the unique lyrics. Sreekanth Hariharan and Maria Roe Vincent ably support while Prakash Hariharan's mandolin in the interludes deserves special mention. Jittaan Jittaan Jinukku is the dance number while the tune is typical Imman number which rides mainly on the thumping rhythm structure. Shika Prabhakaran's exceptional singing helps the hackneyed tune while GKB's off-putting lyrics are the sore point in an otherwise listenable tune.

Bongu Bongu also rides on the Imman's stock tune and structure dominated by the folk sounds with ample support from Kaviraj's percussion. However, the tune falters despite the gripping lyrics from Kabilan while Thiagaraja Subramaniam's rendition stays true to the spirit of the song as well as lyrics. Magaraasaney tune comes in two versions with slight modifications in Viveka's lyrics about father-daughter bond rendered by Srinivas after a long time for the male version and by Varsha Renjith for the female version. The affecting tune is backed by serene orchestration and Imman employed Devi's veena effectively. Both Srinivas and Varsha aces the calming tune effectually despite the tune doesn't match up to the composer's earlier hit Kannana Kanney.Imman ends the vocal tracks of the album with the motivational number Vizhuvathum Ezhuvathum. Though the tune has nothing remarkable to offer, Ashwin Sharma's rendition and Imman's pleasant arrangements make this one an enjoyable listen till it ends. Pon Manickavel's theme sounds fit to the genre of cop thriller with intrigue and mystery. The track features splendid work on the Electric guitar riffs from Keba Jeremiah and Manoj Kumar's violin despite the voiceovers lacks the punch required for the theme track.

Verdict: Imman strictly adheres to his loyal soundscape with a couple of tracks and superior vocals salvage the album.

My Rating: 7/10

Pick of the album: Uthira Uthira, Magaraasaney

P.S You can listen to the soundtrack in Jiosaavn. The edited version of the review is published in Moviecrow.

Music Review (Kannada): Natasaarvabhowma

Music Review (Kannada): Natasaarvabhowma
Music Composer: Imman

The title track sounds more like Imman trying to give stiff competition to Telugu hero introduction numbers and the track is merely loud and jarring affair from Imman and equally the track is perfect for Puneeth Rajkumar fans especially Pavan Wadeyar lyrics. Open the bottle is tried and tested Imman tune propped up by Vijay Prakash's stupendous singing and also Imman's catchy hook helps the song. Yaaro Naanu is an enchanting tune with the sprawling Chennai Strings Orchestra's work blends smoothly amidst the Kaviraj' Mridangam and Balasubramaniam's Nadaswaram. Shreya Goshal undoubtedly aces the beautiful melody effortlessly. Tajaa Samachara also largely benefits from Chennai Strings Orchestra's brilliant arrangements while Imman's melody is complemented by 80's rhythm mix and neat job by the lead singers Jithin Raj and Vandana Srinivasan's respective versions. The theme instrumentals Paranormal action and Power Play are strictly functional ones playing to the gallery of a commercial movie.

Verdict: Imman's sophomore straight Kannada album is salvaged by two listenable melodies.

My Rating: 7/10

Pick of the Album: Yaaro Naanu ,Tajaa Samachara 

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

Music Review (Tamil): Viswasam

Music Review (Tamil): Viswasam
Music Composer: Imman

Adchithooku's tune is formally taken out of Imman's stock tunes and the pulsating energy by the Kaviraj's percussions leads the song. The video game synth sounds in the backgrounds prop up the song along with Viveka's lyrics invoking Mankatha is purely to evoke mass whistles in the theatre. Imman, Adhitya Gadhavi and Narayanan vocals are strictly satisfactory. Imman makes up for the blunder in the first song with a soothing melody Kannaana Kanney and Sid Sriram aces the tune brilliantly. The calming melody is accentuated by the brilliant arrangements where Prakash Sontakke's slide guitar deserves special mention. Thamarai's simple and beautiful lyrics complements Imman's tune perfectly. Prakash Sontakke shines in the song's instrumental version where  the melody sounds more beautiful with the slide guitar.


Vettikattu is another rural mass song led by punchy percussions and falls right into Imman's repertoire buttressed by Shankar Mahadevan's superlative singing. Though the tune is average, Manonmani's sarangi comes as a brief respite from the garish percussion sounds. Imman seldom goes wrong with Shreya Goshal number and Vaaney Vaaney is also another gorgeous melody where Hariharan joins to make this one an instant likeable number. The chorus rhythms scream Imman name and Manoj Kumar's violin is employed in a brilliant way accompanying the splendid rendition by the singers.Danga Danga is another tiresome number from Imman where Senthil Ganesh and Rajalakshmi's energetic vocals also fail to elevate the languishing tune.Riseup theme is perfectly functional one which may suit well with the visuals rather than as a standalone theme track. The theme track is monotonous and the konnakol bit work to its favour.

Verdict: Imman scores well with the melodies but rest of the album is strictly for Ajith fans and musically Imman continues to be in his well-known territory.

My Rating: 7/10

Pick of the Album: Kannaana Kanney, Vaaney Vaaney

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

Music Review (Tamil): Seemaraja

Music Review (Tamil): Seemaraja
Music Composer: Imman

Vaaren Vaaren Seemaraja is Imman's trademark regular high octane folk song with loud percussions as the rhythm drives the song and mass-friendly lyrics thrown to give Sivakarthikeyan huge opening number. The tune wise, the track is the strictly perfunctory number which Imman repeating tirelessly while Diwakar's lively singing matches the song's tone.OnnaVitta Yaarum Yenakilla duet comes in two versions crooned by Sathyaprakash and Sean Roldan while Imman retains Shreya in both. The tune and rhythm flash Imman name from start till end, however, the the breezy melody works well despite the familiarity. The undeniable highlight apart from the singers in perfect form is Punya Srinivas's violin solos competing with konnokol chants in the second interlude.

A Late night Walk with Veena takes me instantly to Kumki's Lady and the violin. OnnaVitta Yaarum Yenakilla's instrumental veena version works much better than the vocals version and it is a great delight to listen to Punya Srinivas dazzling show.Varum Aana Varaathu joins into the list of Imman's another slightly tweaked version of his own songs with average lyrics. The charanam portions work well more than the bland Pallavi portions and also Imman spruces up the proceedings with the interesting arrangements dominated by brass sections and oboe in the interludes and the only grouse is being just Vandana Srinivasan relegated to a minor bit.Paraak Paraak sarts with the grand magnificent orchestration and soon treads into Imman's percussion show. Imman introduced the Vijay TV Super Singer title winner Senthil Ganesh to the mainstream music. The tune is typical Imman's and the track has very little to offer with respect to novelty or catchiness factor.Machakanni's elegant melody works great and Imman's arrangements are top notch especially with the classical touch in the interludes. Though the tabla rhythm is the tried and tested one, Imman's beautiful tune and the arrangements come together as a neat listenable song.Imman ends the soundtrack with the Seemaraja swag which is mass friendly and may work well with the visuals rather than as a song in the soundtrack.

Verdict: Imman stays safe by playing to the gallery, the tried and tested tunes by Imman works sufficiently and serves the purpose.

My Rating:7/10

Pick of the Album: A late night walk with Veena, Machakanni, Onnavitta Yaarum Enakilla

P>S you can liten to the songs in Saavn

Music Review (Tamil) : Kadaikutty Singam

Music Review (Tamil) : Kadaikutty Singam
Music Composer: Imman

Sandakkari has Imman's stamp all over it, starting from the punctuating percussion rhythms and the sweeping string section in the interludes. Yugabharathi continues to pen easily accessible lyrics and the hackneyed tune which has been tried and tested umpteen number of times by the composer itself. Vandana Srinivasan's singing and the mesmerising charanam portions by the singer makes this one passable listen.Imman ensures that Kaalai theme is filled with stupendous energy propped up by punchy percussions and the energetic chorus. Composer infused few engaging Nathaswaram solos amidst the celebratory brass sections and the theme track surely enrich the mass moments on screen.

Thandora Kannaala starts off with an exotic flute and Santoor solos but nose-dived into composer's famous territory which relies on the trite rhythm sections. V V Prasanna salvages the languishing tune with his involved singing. The highlight of the song is an undeniably interesting twist in the second interlude with the soft rock sound accompanied by wonderful chorus and Yugabharathi's relatable lyrics invoking 'wire koodai' , Thandora etc.Vaa Jikki has an uncanny resemblance to Soi Soi and the composer didn't give enough time for the listeners to comprehend about the similarities because of the raw energy the track infuses. However, the track is pretty average and appears to be the hodgepodge of random tunes. Imman sung with enough verve.

Sengathire gains a lot from the Pradeep Kumar's nuanced singing of the classical-tinged tune and the singer's improvisations works like charm. especially in the charanam portions. Imman sets the gloomy tone with the reverberating flute solos and brilliant veena sections in the interludes.

Verdict: Imman's confined soundscape for the rural flicks turns out to be exhausting listen and it's high time for the composer to revamp his style.

My Rating:6.5/10

Pick of the Album: Sengathire, Sandakkari

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

Music Review (Tamil): Tik Tik Tik

Music Review (Tamil): Tik Tik Tik
Music Composer: Imman

Tik Tik Tik suffers largely from the Yuvan Shankar Raja's limited vocal range and the serviceable tune. Sunitha Sarathy's humming interspersed with the Yogi B's typical rap being the only highlight of this track. The tune is strictly average stuff from the composer despite throwing random konnakol in the half way. Imman strikes in Kurumba where Sid Sriram's vocal prowess lifts the song level. The improvisations and the classical touch in the Charanam portions are easily the song's highlight. Imman's consistent beautiful arrangements with the tinge of classical cues in the violin solos makes this one highly enjoyable track in the album.

VinVeera's optimistic Madhan Karky's lyric is prodded by the predictable flashy hard rock guitar strums and blaring drums. Ranjith explosive singing aside, the track has very little scope to clasp the attention of the listeners and Sri Rascol's rap portions are mediocre one. Kurumba's reprise version is crooned by Mirthula Siva and the reprise version is a laborious listen with all it's carnatic improvisation is replaced by more mod sound. The track's original versions works despite the sincere rendition by the lead singer.The theme tracks Race against time and Far beyond Earth are filled with techno sounds as expected and the latter track works exceptionally compared to the former one mainly because of the hanuting base melody despite filled with predominantly synth sounds throughout the 3 minute instrumental track.

Verdict: Imman plays safe in his 100th album and confined to his comfortable zone with Kurumba being the easy winner among the other tracks.

My Rating: 7/10

Pick of the Album: Kurumba

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

Music Review (Tamil): Ippadai Vellum

Music Review (Tamil): Ippadai Vellum
Music Composer: Imman

Imman provides the optimistic positive attitude title song for Shreya Goshal and the lady aces it perfectly with minor hiccup during the arousing chorus sections. However, Imman beautifully crafts the background, with the standout Nathan's woodwinds and Saxophone work. Arunraja Kamaraj shines with his aspirational lyrics for this title song. Aadharaa's fangled rendition of Arunraja Kamaraj's verses aside, Godfather Kanmaniye is predictable with very less awe or influencing element in the track. The tune also fails to evoke interest except for the occasional brilliance in the form of Raghavasimhan's solo violin.

Thodra Paakalam verses are tailor-made for Arunraja Kamaraj's vocals but Imman's vocals also work adequately for the pedestrianly composed tune by the composer. Keba Jeremiah's guitar and punchy percussions go well with the energy in the verses but the tune hardly sticks to the listener's mind. The tune reminds some of the Imman's earlier days compositions. Kulebaa Vaa rides mainly on the adequately engaging Kaviraj's Arabian Rhythm and the tune standalone doesn't make quite a cut but still, the overseas singers Kumaresh Kamalakannan and Nalini Krishnan make this one a listenable track till it lasts. One wishes Imman could have done a more imaginative track with this rhythm sound.The theme track is the tweaked upbeat version of the title song with a few intriguing sounds added to get the thrilling effect but makes the lesser impact mainly because of the vocal portions.

Verdict: Imman continues to be pigeonholed with his stock sounds and Ippadai Vellum is not an outlier either.

My Rating:6.5/10

Pick of the Album: Ippadai Vellum Nichayame, Kulebaa Vaa

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

Music Review (Tamil): Nenjil Thunivirunthal

Music Review (Tamil): Nenjil Thunivirunthal
Music Composer: Imman

Yechacha Yechacha  starts with famous Muthu dialogue which has been added solely to justify the title but soon spiral towards typical Imman tune which usually composer reserve for himself but handed over to Jithin Raj in this track. The track has the busy arrangements in the background but nothing sticks out except for the enticing usage of trumpets in the second interlude amidst the gibberish sounds. The mild awkward imitation of rail sound aside, Rail Aaraaro is a neat listen dominated by guitar-laden arrangements and brilliant singing by Shreya Goshal along with current favorite Pradeep Kumar and the improvisations by the singer is phenomenal. Imman kept the interludes also engaging along with the brilliant show by the lead singers.

Imman roped Hariharan to croon the classical tinged track Aram Seyya Virumbu and it's always delight to listen Hariharan's singing. Though the tune lacks instant appeal, the sitar cues throughout the track and the lead singer makes this track enjoyable. Madhan Karky's trendy lyrics and equally fangled rendition by Aditya Rao and Sharanya Gopinath aside, Sophia has very little to offer. The interludes are hardly interesting one while Sharanya Gopinath's thunderous vocals and Karky's lyrics makes this song listenable till it lasts. Aei Arakka's middle Eastern rhythm structure has been heard umpteen number of times and Benny Dayal is able to infuse life to the song with his energetic vocals. The singer able to do justice for both the lyrics and busy orchestration by the composer. Dark Rooster has an intriguing atmospheric soundscape created around it and the theme should go well along with the visuals rather than as the standalone track. Badass Theme music fails to make an impact with the sonorous chant packed in less than one minute and the track has the shades of earlier Suseenthiran films. 

Verdict: Nenjil Thunivirundhal is the weakest album from the composer-director combination and it's high time that Imman should reinvent himself.

My Rating :6/10

Pick of the Album: Rail Aaraaro, Aram Seyya Virumbu

Music Review (Tamil): Karuppan

Music Review (Tamil): Karuppan
Music Composer: Imman

Karuva Karuva Payale's highlight being the Shashaa Tripathi and Shankar Mahadevan's vocals while the rhythm and the tune are strictly confined to the Imman's territory. Apart from the, nifty violin interludes and Shashaa's nuanced singing, the track is the usual Imman song with nothing much to offer. Imman brings famous Kannada singer Ananya Bhat to Tamil and gives her beautiful melody in the form of Usure Usure. The track is accentuated by her punchy rendition and the composer shows his prowess in the backgrounds. The singer brings out the emotions of the lyrics effectually and the strings laden backdrop makes this one an enjoyable listen till it lasts.

Olaga Vaayadi is another folk track where Imman recycles his earlier hits and the song reminds of the composer's numerous compositions. Benny Dayal energetic rendition and intermittent Kazoo bits are the big saviors in an otherwise tepid composition. Though the tune is enjoyable in parts, it's difficult to shrug off the deja vu feel once the base rhythm kicks in. In Azhagazhaga, Pradeep Kumar brings his singing prowess in fore despite the tune is average and it's delight to hear the singer's improvisations in multiple instances. Imman kept the rhythm and interludes simple to accentuate the vocals. Pradeep Kumar makes this one pleasant and enjoyable listen. The retro styled arrangements in Murukkumeesa Maama is enticing especially for initial few minutes in Anita Venkat vocals but the track fizzles out sooner because of discordant jarring musical pieces and also the tune meanders in the second half. Diwakar's energetic vocals being the only takeaway in this bungled track.

Verdict: Karuppan is yet another traditional folk album from Imman and the composer's trademark sounds become tedious listen despite backed by stellar vocals.

My Rating: 7/10

Pick of the Album: Karuva Karuva Payale, Usure Usure, Azhagazhaga

P.S You can listen to the songs in Saavn

Music Review (tamil): Podhuvaaga En Manasu Thangam

Music Review (tamil): Podhuvaaga En Manasu Thangam
Music Composer: Imman

Imman's tried and tested tune in Summa Irukkaradhu easy illa gets tiresome just after listening to the pallavi itself and the composer's melodious track are enjoyable even with the minor tweaks but his kuthu mass tracks are hardly interesting and Yugabharathi's colloquial lyrics adds fuel to the fire. Deepak's energetic singing alone is not enough to salvage this highly tedious song. Ammani is a highly interesting folk track with splendid vocals and Shashaa Tripathi's improvisations and humming are delightful to hear while the pleasing tune is adorned with highly engaging arrangements. Yugabharathi aces once again with his simple lyrics and the Srilankan Singer Diluckshan Jeyarathnam marks his debut with an adequately interesting song.

Yennaanu Solveno comes off more like a situational track and the singers Vandana Srinivasan and Sathyaprakash carry this soulful track single-handedly. Imman's thumping rhythm arrangements are the highlight in this short pathos song. Imman introduces another singer Rajaganapathy along with Niranjana Ramanan for the folk track Singakutty and the tune fails to clasp the listener despite the adequate mix of enticing elements in the background. The tune is largely languishing one despite it treads on the path of Imman's tried and tested tune repertoire. Pachi Parandhuruchi is an another uninteresting folk love failure track where both tune and arrangements hardly create any enthusiasm and the chorus also didn't work. The only solace being the second interlude and  Mannargudi Ramesh, autodriver turned playback singer and it's great that Imman continues to introduce new vocals in each and every album.

Verdict: Imman stick to his tried and tested folk tunes in Podhuvaaga Enmanasu Thangam and the result is highly underwhelming.

My Rating:6/10

Pick of the Album: Ammani, Yennaanu Solveno

Music Review (Tamil): Geminiganesanum Suruli Rajanum

Music Review (Tamil): Geminiganesanum Suruli Rajanum
Music Composer: Imman

Pradeep Kumar gets a stellar opening rock track, Ammukuttiye and the singer is pitch perfect with his rendition while much awesomeness comes in the arrangements. Karthik Iyer's kickass solo violin in the second interlude and classical tinge in the Keba Jeremiah's guitar riffs make this one earworm track in the album while Yugabharathi shines with his easy go lyrics. Imman delivers another charming melody, Kanmani which is strictly confined to the Imman's territory but at the same time the tune is enjoyable and ear pleasing till it lasts. In the backgrounds, the upbeat rhythm and Nathan's woodwinds do magic to the pleasant tune. Abhay Jodhpurkar's charming rendition makes this song easy another winner in the soundtrack.

Venilla Thangachi is a passable kuthu track which struggles to elevate beyond the mediocre level despite the lively show by Nakash Aziz and Ramya NSK. Balasubramaniam's Nadhaswaram being the only highlight of this forgettable track and Yugabharathi's lyrics didn't help the song either.Imman strikes back yet again with Aahaa Aahaa and the sensual vocals of Shreya Goshal with excellent support by Haricharan ups the ante of the track. The Ilayaraja'esque tune is adorned by the brilliant rhythm section conducted by Kaviraj accompanied by Nathan's woodwinds and Seenu's strings. Imman ends the soundtrack with another mediocre track Thambi Cuttingu, which starts with an enticing prelude but slips into the tried and tested insipid tune. Anthony Daasaan and Vijay Yesudas's vocals fail to lift the song and Yugabharathi's pedestrian lyrics adds little value to the languishing tune.

Verdict: Imman's melodies are easily accessible as usual but the fast paced tracks comes off as tiresome listen. Ammukuttiye being the irresistible track in this typical Imman album.

My Rating: 7.5/10

Pick of the Album: Ammukuttiye, Aaha Aaha, Kanmani.

Music Review (Tamil): Saravanan Irukka Bayamaen

Music Review (Tamil): Saravanan Irukka Bayamaen
Music Composer: Imman

Imman does considerably well in the arrangements front in Yembuttu Irukkudhu with the commendable usage of Sarangi throughout the song and utilized Kalyani Nair's euphonious vocals effectually. On the downside, droning tune and Sean Roldan's vocals didn't help much to the languishing tune. However, the song is highly listenable for its sarangi portions and interludes. Semma Joru is a passable song which rides mainly on the energetic rendition of  Vishal Dadlani and Maria Kavitha Thomas vocals are not utilized well and the tune fails to hold the listeners until the end. The only highlight being the buoyant usage of trumpets and keys in an otherwise lackluster song from Imman.

Imman does it once again after Oru Ooral Rendu Raja in Marhaba Aavona with an engaging mix of Sufi and Maapilla Paatu while Shreya Goshal sails through the simple tune with her flawless vocals. Imman throws harmonium and Tabla sounds generously throughout the song with occasional beautiful touches of Sarangi. Langu Langu Labakaru's easy go orchestration is a lovely stuff from Imman and the tinge of retro sound throughout the song is easily appealing one but the lyrics, though it may be apt for the situation, lyrics sounds incongruous. Praniti, Sun singer title winner debuts with this track and the talented child nails the vocal part exceptionally well. Laala Kadai Santhi is another mediocre song from Imman and the vocals of Benny Dayal and Sunidhi Chauhan makes this partly foot tapping tune listenable. However, the arrangements are pretty staid and random without any memorable sequence. Sunidhi Chauhan's bold singing being the only highlight in an otherwise passable song.Melancholic ride sounds contrast to its title and the two and half minute theme has nothing much to offer but sounds engaging and listenable till it lasts.

Verdict: Imman opens up his 2017 account in an underwhelming manner and the album lacks memorable tune despite filled with consistently engaging arrangements.

My Rating:6.5/10

Pick of the Album: Yembuttu Irukkudhu Aasai, Marhaba Aavona

Music Review (Tamil): Bogan

Music Review (Tamil): Bogan
Music Composer: Imman

Damaalu Dumeelu, foot tapping kuthu nevertheless mediocre one and lyrics bound to satiate the guilty pleasure of Kollywood's commercial hero fans. Maxwell's buoyant trumpet is the only enjoyable factor while Anirudh tries hard to maintain the energy of the song in tandem with the frenetic background. Senthoora benefits largely from the soprano vocal trained Luksimi Sivaneswaralingam's splendid vocals and Imman's typical busy rhythms in the background makes this one easily appealing one in the soundtrack. Lorne's bagpipes provide wonderful support in the interludes while Thamarai makes her presence with her poetic lyrics.

Kooduvittu Koodu's mystic tune is accentuated by the rustic vocals of Jyoti Nooran and although the English verses are the mediocre one, the vocals and easily accessible tune makes this one harmless listen. Nathan's woodwinds are easily catchy stuff while Arvindsamy gives ample support with his coarse vocals.Yaaro Yaro Avan is completely Vijay Prakash show and the man nails the classical-rock fusion in a splendid manner while every composer's favourite for rock fusion is Sitar and Kishore complements the Vijay Prakash's vocals with brief sitar solos, however, Keba Jeremiah's angsty electric guitar strums dominate the background. Vaarai Vaarai is another lovely composition from Imman and the seductive tune is delivered effectually by Shreya Goshal with her sensual vocals with another proficient singer Shankar Mahadevan. Imman throws the adequate elements in the background with Kishore's Sitar and restrained synth work by Rajan.Madhan Karky set the mood with his provocative lyrics.Senthooran's reprise version relies largely on the beautiful tune, however, Inno Genga's version doesn't match up to the versatility of the vocals in the original version. The minimal orchestration in the background works to the song's favour. Spooky Bogan Theme is a functional one and the track is hardly catchy even though the instrumental runs for around two minutes.

Verdict: Imman strikes a chord in yet another album and the songs lie in the comfortable zone of the composer. Imman delivers the songs which are in tandem with what one expects from the composer.

My Rating: 7.75/10

Pick of the Album: Senthoora, Vaarai Vaarai, Yaaro Yaro Avan

Music Review (Tamil): Maaveeran Kittu

Music Review (Tamil): Maaveeran Kittu
Music Composer: Imman

Imman continues his knack in delivering soulful melodies and the success streak continues in the breezy melody Elanthaari and the song features a foot-tapping percussion while Imman mixes the harmonica, strings and guitars effectually. The charanam portions elevate the charmness of the melody and the tune throws us back to yesteryear compositions while Pooja Vaidyanath breezes through the composition effortlessly. Elandhaari's reprise version is equally good with the slight change in orchestration and the second interlude with the punchy guitar work fits the overall song much well. Sniti Mishra, Odisha-based singer's tender vocals are delight to listen and Imman tune holds the song amidst likable arrangements.

Inaivom sounds brilliant from the Sarangi prelude and Pradeep Vijay's sincere rendition of the Yugabharathi's philosophical lyrics makes this song work. The arrangements are intense and the tempo is maintained in tandem with the lyrics and mood of the song. However, the undeniable highlight is the splendid usage of Sarangi. Overall, impactful melody from the composer. Unkooda Thunaiyaga is an another gorgeous melody where the arrangements feature the typical Imman elements from fast beat rhythms, stirring string sections and piano keys. Kalyani Nair rules the tune with her impeccable rendition and the song is an enjoyable listen till it lasts despite the shades of the composer's previous compositions.The album takes a detour with the angsty number Onna Onna and the angsty feeling in the vocals comes off as a forced one. The trance beats and the grungy rhythms is listenable although Imman's processed vocals didn't hit the right note. Kannadikkala has a lot to like from the conversational vocals especially the husky title hook is the delight to listen and the arrangements features playful trumpets, soothing strings. The Vidyasagar'ish tune is crooned effectually by Jithin Raj and Pooja Vaidyanath. The prelude reminds of the composer's recent hit in Thodari. Though the individual bits are incongruous, Imman's highly likable melody makes up for it. Imman ends the soulful album with an impressive theme track where the emotional classical violin by Raghavasimhan is an undeniable highlight. Imman backed the violinist with the resonating string progression and the theme track is a delight to listen.

Verdict: Imman once again proves that his trademark melodies are irresistible and the aplomb consistency shown by the composer in churning out the melodies are remarkable.

My Rating: 8/10

Pick of the Album: Elanthaari, Kannadikkala, Unkooda Thunaiyaga

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

Music Review (Tamil): Rubaai

Music Review (Tamil): Rubaai
Music Composer: Imman

Asathuthe is adequately enjoyable thanks to the lovely nostalgic guitar strums and Imman aces the tune backed by stupendous guitar strums throughout the track. Imman spruces up the tune with quite an enticing interludes and it reaches crescendo especially in the fabulous usage of accordion and latino styled guitars in the second half. Unkooda Pesathaane starts off with gospel-styled chorus and the tune shift towards the expected melody territory in the ever-reliable vocals of Shreya Goshal. Though the tune fares notch below the latest Shreya Goshal- Imman combo tracks, the melody and the vocals are adequately engaging till the song lasts.

Paathukuren's 90 style melody didn't hit the mark and the languishing tune is made listenable by Sathyaprakash's engaging vocals. The rhythms and interludes by Imman also sound staid without any spark. However the brief flute portion in the second interlude is pleasant to hear and makes this song works partially. Dukkum Dukkum is an another mediocre song in the soundtrack and the soundscape is on the lines of Soi Soi from Kumki and Pom Pom from Desingu Raja. Anitha Venkat's rustic vocals sounds apt, however it's difficult to brush aside the sound cues from the composer's earlier works.

Verdict: Imman's latest album Rubaai falls short of the engaging set of tunes in contrast to his previous couple of releases and the album works partially for few nifty touches.

My Rating: 7/10

Pick of the Album: Asathuthe, Unkooda Pesathaane

Music Review (Tamil): Rekka

Music Review (Tamil): Rekka

Music Composer: Imman

       The song which has been already released as a single and the track has very minimal appealing factor. The title hook is annoying even though it lasts for brief duration.Imman's arrangements are the hodgepodge of composer's trademark sounds. Jithin Raj alone unable to salvage this underwhelming track.Kanna kaattu podhum is a minimum guarantee track which is adequately pleasant in the mesmerising vocals of Shreya Goshal. However the warmed up soundscape for Imman- Shreya Goshal combination is of little concern. The arrangements are strictly confined to the Imman's forte with generous usage of strings and the lovely Verna in the second interlude.

        It's delight to listen Nandini Srikar vocals in Tamil after Nerungi Vaa Muthamidadhe and Yuvan's Moondru per Moondru kadhal. She aces in kannamma also with excellent improvisations throughout the track. Imman complements the tune and vocals with neat arrangements employing fabulous Nadhaswaram, keys and slide guitar in the first interlude. Pollapaiya gains a lot from the singing prowess of Shwetha Mohan and Haricharan while the background arrangements and rhythm are tried and tested umpteen times by the composer itself. The English lyrics and rock guitar mix in the first interlude is incongruous with the overall flow of the tune. The furious wings theme is adequately thumping and grungy enough, however the theme song stays in the strictly functional level without any awestruck moments in the two and half minute instrumental duration.

Verdict: Rekka is an another typical Imman album filled with stock tunes of the composer and the tracks benefit from the superlative vocals throughout the album.

My rating : 7/10

Pick of the Album: Kannamma,  Kanna Kaatu Podhum, Pollapaiya

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