Rajini Murugan Music Review

Movie: Rajini Murugan

Cast: Sivakarthikeyan,Keerthi Suresh,Soori

Director: Ponram

Music director: D.Imman

1.Rajini Murugan-Sivakarthikeyan

This highly energetic title track is sure to receive whistles from all around the theater. This is what we call as a theri mass number. With rollicking band music, trumpets, gunshots, applause sounds, lively chorus and quirky lyrics, this one is a chartbuster material. Sivakarthikeyan croons the number with an easygoing attitude which makes it enjoyable to listen. A special mention for the usage of Veena in the second interlude. Peppy and foot-tapping!

2.Un Mele Oru Kannu-Jithin Raj,Mahalakshmi Iyer

Another Paakatha Paakatha type of melodious duet with abundant amount of Imman's signature style. What works in this song is its simplicity. Be it the engaging rhythm or the exhilarating interludes, everything works in the favor of this romantic number. Jithin Raj is a promising find as he renders his lines with perfection. It is refreshing to listen to Mahalakshmi Iyer's much-loved voice after a long time. Beautiful composition!

3.Aavi Parakkum Teakadai-Badava Gopi,V.M.Mahalingam

The major attraction of this simple folk song is its lyrics which compares a tea shop with the girl whom the lead character loves. You can find various sounds like the tinkle of glass, mild EDM touch in the interlude, ebullient violin section in the second interlude, usage of 'Boost is the secret of my energy' catchphrase and other gimmicks that glorify the tea shop in the movie. The singers have done a fabulous job in their respective renditions.

4.Yennamma Ipadi Panreengalaema-D.Imman

Here comes the next viral song of this year. Zeroing in on the popular slogan 'Yennamma ipadi panreengalaema', Imman weaves a peppy tune that is sure to hit the bull's eye on the very first listen. The recurrent guitar strums and the easily accessible rhythm provide a dynamic atmosphere to the entire song. Innovative lyrics by  Yugabharathi has been rendered in a clean manner by Imman. Sivakarthikeyan's intro speech is sure to evoke guffaws in the theater. Sureshot winner!

5.Jigiru Jigiru-Diwakar,Kalpana Raghavendhar

The setting of the song indicates that it would be a rain dance song with some heavy steps. Though you can find that Imman has been composing such stereotyped songs for a long time, you can never deny the fact that these songs are the need of the hour. Despite the heard-before-feel, singers Diwakar and Kalpana stay hell-bent in delivering their parts flawlessly.

6.Yennamma Ipadi Panreengalaema (Imman Mix)-D.Imman,Aaryan Dinesh Kanagarathnam

This is Imman's way of introducing one of the popular folk numbers of the album to the pubs and dance floors. With overloaded rap, EDM and digitally sequenced sounds, this number feels out of place. The album could have fared well even without this one.

Verdict:

The trio Ponram-Imman-Sivakarthikeyan deliver yet another bombastic treat with this soundtrack. Strictly commercial!

Rating: ***

Picks:

Rajini Murugan,Un Mele Oru Kannu,Yennamma Ipadi Panreengalaema

Indru Netru Naalai Music Review

Movie: Indru Netru Naalai

Cast: Vishnu Vishal,Mia George,Jayaprakash,Karunakaran

Director: Ravi Kumar

Music director: Hip Hop Tamizha Adhi

1.Iphone 6 Nee Yendral-Hip Hop Tamizha Adhi

Bouncy rhythms, dubstep interspersed with mridangam beats and Hip Hop Tamizha Adhi's jaunty vocals create a number that is breezy as well as catchy. The digital sequencing and enhanced Nadhaswaram loops have added enough peppiness to the number. But the number provides a deja-vu feel and you can easily relate to Adhi's previous tunes.

2.Kadhale Kadhale-Shankar Mahadevan,Padmalatha

The prelude consisting of a melange of classical flute and lively guitar strums sets the tone for this scintillating melody. And once again it is the flute section in the interlude which makes the number a pleasant listen. Shankar Mahadevan's unadulterated voice is pitch perfect and Padmalatha's classically inclined rendition is something to applaud for. This number is sure to linger in the minds of the listeners for a long time. Addictive duet!

3.Naane Thaan Raja-Anthony Daasan

Here comes the signature track of Hip Hop Adhi. This number solely depends on the digitally sequenced Nadhaswaram sections and Anthony Daasan's natural rustic vocals. But there is nothing new to listen for. It might become a chartbuster just for its foot-tapping rhythm, as youngsters go ga-ga over such numbers. Lyrics are in tune with the genre of the movie.

4.Indru Netru Naalai-Shankar Mahadevan,Aalaap Raju

Melancholic violin, dulcet piano notes and an ethereal string section invite the listeners to a 03:18 minutes of heavenly listen. The trance rhythm provides a divine aura around the song from which a listener can never deviate. Shankar Mahadevan's strong rendition is gracefully supported by Aalaap Raju's subtle voice. The interlude with traditional sounds of Sitar and Saarangi is one of the highlights of this alluring number. Strikes a chord!

5.The Conquest Of Time (Theme)-Instrumental

A potpourri of sounds makes this theme stand out from rest of the album. The symphonic arrangement, addictive humming by Aadhi and the tinkling bell sounds form a perfect theme for this science fiction movie. Enchanting!

Verdict:

Hip Hop Tamizha Adhi's second album scores well with a cacophony of genres and catchy tunes. Being a science fiction movie, this soundtrack stays true to it!

Rating: ***1/2

Picks:

Kadhale Kadhale,Indru Netru Naalai,The Conquest of Time (Theme)

Baahubali Music Review

Movie: Baahubali

Cast: Prabhas,Rana Daggubati,Anushka Shetty,Tamannaah

Director: S.S.Rajamouli

Music director: M.M.Keeravani

1.Pacha Bottasi-Karthik,Damini

A retro-type melody opens the most grand album of the year. M.M.Keeravani weaves a simple tune and creates an ethereal atmosphere for the listeners with his arrangement. Karthik's voice is mesmerizing while Damini's honey-dipping rendition oozes with an overdose of sweetness. The orchestration and interludes are pleasant on the ears. Though the song might not appeal to all types of listeners, it still manages to keep them entertained.

2.Mamatala Talli-Surya,Yamini

This number which begins on a mellowed note travels through various moods of music. While Yamini's effervescent voice welcomes the listeners, it is Surya's and the chorus' voice which turn this track into a mildly energetic one. Sword clashes, flute interludes and the symphonic arrangement depict that the song might appear during a battlefield sequence. Keeravani experiments with various sounds and the result is quiet endearing!

3.Nippulaa Swasa Ga-M.M.Keeravani

Amidst the cacophony of pulsating rhythms, spiritual chants and trumpet sections, Keeravani's voice soars two notches higher. The grand orchestration represents a war sequence in progress. The strong undercurrent energy flowing throughout this track is one that is to be definitely experienced. Though the song might be unsettling for some, it would be surely appreciated by spiritual music lovers.

4.Manohari-Mohana Bhogaraju,Revanth

An addictive yesteryear item number is up next for the listeners. This track is a fusion of tribal rhythm, desi flavor and an ample amount of Western influence. While Mohana Bhogaraju renders the number with a seductive tone, Revanth complements her with the catchy phrase 'Manohari'. String sections and mellowed piano notes accompany along with the tune and make the interludes even more exciting to listen. This track is one of the highlights of the album!

5.Dhivara-Ramya Behara,Deepu

A heavenly number that provides a sense of tranquility and a celestial feel. The instantly addictive rhythms, the powerful 'Dhivara' chant and the scintillating interludes work in the favor of this innovative number. The tune is easily accessible and Keeravani includes elements of divinity into it. With Ramya Behara's heart wrenching rendition, this song provides a breezy listen!

6.Shivuni Aana-Keeravani,Mounima

An unconventional composition by Keeravani who introduces tribal elements along with the strong devotional chants. He croons with all his might, making the track a gem in its genre. While you might have listened to hymns and slokas right from birth, this one paves a way for modern fusion of the same hymns and slokas. Mounima's appearance towards the end of the song makes it all the more appealing to the listeners. A pleasant treat!

7.Dheevara (English Version)-Ramya Behara,Adhitya

The most experimental track of this album makes a strong comeback with its English version. This is in par with the original one with enormous amounts of Jazz section, synthesizer background and some globalized lyrics. Though this number seems unnecessary for a mythological movie, it provides a refreshing change for the listeners who'd have been in an historical trance.

8.Jeva Nadhi-Geetha Madhuri

If you have heard the bit 'Dheera' from the Magadheera movie during the fight sequence, then you can easily relate with this bit too. Keeravani's stamp is all over it with Geetha Madhuri's rendition being top class. The lyrics speak about a mother's sorrow. A short-lived pathos, on the whole.

Verdict:

M.M.Keeravani's most anticipated soundtrack stays true to its words. It's magnificent and provides a grandeur treat to the listeners.

Rating: ***3/4

Picks:

Mamatala Talli,Manohari,Dhivara,Shivuni Aana 

Yagavarayinum Naa Kaakka Music Review

Movie: Yagavarayinum Naa Kaakka Music Review

Cast: Aadhi,Nikki Galrani,Pasupathi,Richa Pallod

Director: Sathya Prabhas Pinisetty

Music director: Prasan,Praveen,Shyam

1.Papparapampam-Benny Dayal.Krishna Iyer,M.M.Manasi

Celebratory mood fills in with this vivacious beach cocktail party number. You can expect some fireworks and flashy costumes once the visuals are out. Every aspect of this number makes you enjoy it to the core. Krishna Iyer, with his energetic voice, excels for a major portion of the number while Benny supports him commendably. M.M.Manasi's occasional humming, usage of mouth organ and guitar accompaniment also get noticed besides the main vocals. The surprise change of rhythm to kuthu towards the end is a brilliant idea by the composer trio. Hits the bull-eye!

2.Sokkana Ponnu-Aadhi

The hero Aadhi himself yields the megaphone and his voice is so captivating in this hilarious number. When songs demeaning girls who leave their boyfriends are booming in the industry, this one speaks about how a guy suffers to leave a girl. It's quiet ingenious of the composer to come up with such a number, adding Gana Ulaganathan to the list of quirky lyricists. The acapella and the interludes are fresh and innovative. Delightful!

3.Nee Sonna-Krishna Iyer

Here comes a scintillating melody loaded with oodles of traditional sounds like the Santoor. The flute interludes provide a mellowed feel to the number with slight folk beats as accompaniment. Though it is a short track, Krishna Iyer's vocals make quiet an impact. Mellifluous!

4.Singari Sokku Lady-Krishna Iyer,Priya Hemesh

This is an out-of-the-box item number which is instantly addictive. It's sure to strike a chord with the listeners with its tune arrangement and orchestration. Though you might have heard item songs of this type in Bollywood, it is something new to Tamil music industry. Our item songs are paced with blaring kuthu beats that make no sense, while this number has a strong undercurrent flowing along with the foot-tapping beats. Krishna Iyer and Priya Hemesh elevate the number to a higher level with their flawless singing. Chartbuster!

5.Oozhi Kuthu-Dr.Narayanan

The album switches to devotional mode with this track. Urumi melam, flute interludes and pulsating beats make this number a tremendous one. Dr.Narayanan's Carnatic rendition with the required gamakas at the right places is soulful to listen to. A racy number that is sure to pump your adrenaline each time you listen to it. It would obviously be a situational number.

6.Thozha Thozha-Elfe Choir

This short number is pathos at its best. It is heartrending to hear to the lyrics of painful loss of a friend. It is sure to stir some sad emotions when watched on screen.

7.YNK Theme-Krishna Iyer

A 20 second powerful chant of 'Yagavarayinum Naa Kaakka' in the vocals of Krishna Iyer brings this album to a completion.

Verdict:

A propitious debut by the composer trio Prasan, Praveen and Shyam, with songs that are imaginative as well as catchy.

Rating: ***3/4

Picks:

Papparapampam,Sokkana Ponnu,Nee Sonna,Singari Sokku Lady

Maari Music Review

Movie: Maari

Cast: Dhanush,Kajal Agarwal,Vijay Yesudas,Robo Shankar

Director: Balaji Mohan

Music director: Anirudh Ravichander

1.Maari Thara Local-Dhanush,Anirudh Ravichander

Flip your collar, roll your tongue, grab your lungi, go out on the streets and dance to your heart's content while playing this number in the background. Yes, this is the opening track of Maari with ample lines of energetic introduction for the character Maari. You might have probably listened to songs of this type for over a decade. It gets even more bland in the voices of Dhanush and Anirudh. Nothing new!

2.Oru Vidha Aasai-Vineeth Srinivasan

Anirudh tries a DSP like number which provides a breezy listen after a stereotyped opening number. With hard rock guitar strums, jazz sections and rock n roll beats, this track is sure to be a hit with the listeners. Dhanush's quirky lyrics, violin solos and Vineeth Srinivasan's rendition add flavor to this cool number. Interesting!

3.Don'u Don'u Don'u-Anirudh Ravichander,Alisha Thomas

A dubstep folk is something new to the music industry and Anirudh composes a refreshing tune that will instantly hook on the listeners. The rap section in the interlude provides a pleasant feel to the overall structure of the tune. While Anirudh's rendition is straightforwardly rustic, Alisha's fruity voice in contrast creates a lively atmosphere. Though the number contains traces of Kaadhalikkum Pennin Kaigal song, it is unique in its arrangement. Mellowed kuthu number!

4.Bagulu Odayum Dagulu Maari-Dhanush

Brilliant symphonic violin arrangement welcomes the listeners in this short track. This number is sure to be used as a background for a fight sequence. There is nothing noteworthy in the track except the repetitive 'Maari Maari' chants which are tiresome.

5.The Maari Swag-Instrumental

This is a suitable theme for this movie and it is sure to bring numerous whistles in the theater.

6.Thappa Dhaan Theriyum-Dhanush,Chinna Ponnu,Maghizhini

The album ends with another boring folk track. Anirudh must understand that listeners are no longer willing to listen to typecast rustic numbers. That too especially in the voice of Dhanush. Even if there are accompaniments from Chinna Ponnu and Maghizhini, the tune arrangement is trite. Skip this!

Verdict:

After delivering hit albums like 3 and VIP for Dhanush, Anirudh slips in his composition this time. Probably his weakest album till date!

Rating: **

Picks:

Oru Vidha Aasai,Don'u Don'u Don'u

Trisha Illana Nayanthara Music Review

Movie: Trisha Illana Nayanthara

Cast: G.V.Prakash,Anandhi,Manisha Yadav

Director: Adhik Ravichandran

Music director: G.V.Prakash

1.Bittu Padam Di-G.V.Prakash,Adhik Ravichandran

A hackneyed kuthu number opens this 'virgin' soundtrack as the composer calls this album. Love failure lyrics dominate the song with extra innings in the form of curses by a virgin boy. G.V.Prakash's hoarse rendition and Adhik Ravinchandran's gimmicks work well in the number. But the tune is very bland that one wishes that the composer could have composed a different opening track!

2.Mutham Kodutha Maayakaari-Yuvan Shankar Raja

This trendy number is sure to be a hit among the youngsters. With a fusion of dubstep and desi beats, G.V.Prakash provides an interesting number after a somber start. Yuvan Shankar Raja is the perfect pick for this track as he modulates well in the needed lines. The lyrics are quirky that they will soon become viral. Enjoyable!

3.Yennachu Yedhachu-G.V.Prakash,Saindhavi,Kalyani Pradeep

A mesmerizing melody in G.V.Prakash's signature style is always refreshing to hear. Especially when his wife Saindhavi and he croon together, it is sure to weave magic. The orchestration, flute and violin in the interludes create a perfect aura for a mellifluous romantic duet. Kalyani Pradeep's rendition is also pleasant to listen. Perfect for lovey-dovey evenings!

4.Rain Dance: A TIN Theme-Instrumental

G.V.Prakash is back with his exuberant style of theme construction (remember the themes of Madrasapattinam, Mayakkam Enna and Thaandavam?). This theme is filled with some energetic percussion beats, different types of flute sections (pan flute, piccolo, etc.,) and whistles. A cacophony of various musical sounds!

5.Trisha Illana Nayanthara-Arunraja Kamaraj,Pushpavanam Kuppusamy

This is a colorful title track, perfectly blending with the theme of the movie. G.V.Prakash has once again experimented with a fusion of traditional instruments like Nadaswaram and Thavil, accompanied by dubstep beats towards the end of the song. Both the singers Arunraja Kamaraj and Pushpavanam Kuppusamy have done a commendable job in their respective renditions. Though it is enjoyable, it doesn't create quite an impact on the listeners.

6.Dakalti-Andrea Jeremiah,Anthony Daasan,Gana Bala

This number also has a vapid construction of tune, though G.V.Prakash provides a good mixture of various genres of music. It is similar to songs that would be rather played in the streets of slums. Provided that the movie is of a rustic-urban genre, this song would work wonders with listeners who like these type of songs. The ensemble of singers is the only factor that saves this song from turning into a damp-squib.

Verdict:

G.V.Prakash comes out with innovative sounds in this cool album, unlike his previous ones. But his tune arrangements lack originality.

Rating: ***

Picks:

Mutham Kodutha Maayakaari,Yennachu Yedhachu,Rain Dance: A TIN Theme

ABCD 2 Music Review

Movie: ABCD 2

Cast: Varun Dhawan,Shraddha Kapoor,Prabhu Deva

Director: Remo D'Souza

Music director: Sachin-Jigar

1.Bezubaan Phir Se-Vishal Dadlani,Anushka Manchanda,Madhav Krishna

Hard rock, hip-hop beats and heavy synthesizers make up this track which is a rehash of Bezubaan number from the prequel. The number has a strong undercurrent energy flowing throughout. It would surely have some amazing dance moves and will scorch the screens. Vishal Dadlani's high octave rendition is pure delight while Madhav Krishna and Anushka Manchanda elevate the mood of the track with their energetic vocals. Pumping track!

2.Naach Meri Jaan-Benny Dayal,Shalmali Kholgade,Siddharth Basrur,Rimi Nique

Here comes a number that sounds much like a party track of the early 2000s. The tune is easily relatable which makes this number more enjoyable. High Latino beats and awesome vocals by Benny Dayal,Shalmali Kholgade,Siddharth Basrur and Rimi Nique provide a complete pub package. Hit the dance floor with this number!

3.Sun Saathiya-Divya Kumar,Priya Saraiya

I would say that the essence of Bollywood music continues to live on only because of numbers like this one. It is a scintillating love ballad with traces of Hindustani elements. If you want to experience heaven in 3:42 minutes, then you should surely plug in to this one. Priya Saraiya's swooning voice is out of the world and Divya Kumar induces addiction into the song. Soul-stirring all the way!

4.Vande Mataram-Daler Mehendi,Tanishka Sanghvi,Badshah,Divya Kumar

Another awesome patriotic tribute to Vande Mataram is composed in the form of this number. The song is sure to be a situational dance number in the movie. It sways between slow and fast beats at many moments. With traditional instruments and thumping rhythm, this track will be a visual delight. Daler Mehendi and Tanishka Sanghvi put up a wonderful show with their voices while Badshah and Divya Kumar's rendition complement perfectly.

5.Chunar-Arijit Singh

An out and out melody number finds a place in this dance based album. Beginning with mellowed piano notes, this number provides an emotional feel all the way with its hauntingly slow beats. With Arijit Singh yielding the megaphone, it will surely strike a chord with the listeners. It is a perfect ode to all the mothers in the recent times!

6.Happy Birthday-Varun Dhawan,Sachin-Jigar

Another party number which has the funky vocals of Varun Dhawan and the composer duo Sachin-Jigar. It falls into the category of high techno beats induced numbers that are booming nowadays. The rap section stands out in the entire track. This number is going to be the party number of the year with some exuberant dance moves from Varun Dhawan on the screen. Rocking!

7.Happy Hour-Mika Singh

Are you in need of an addictive lounge bar song? Going by the contemporary beats and minimal instruments, I must say that this is one of the most innovative tunes in recent times. Mika Singh's pitch perfect rendition will make you go swinging along with the rhythm. The haunting chorus accompaniment is effective for the track. Enjoyable song!

8.If You Hold My Hand-Benny Dayal

This romantic track provides a global feel right from the word go. It maybe because of the melange of Hindi and English lyrics or maybe because of Benny Dayal's bombastic rendition. It is refreshing to listen to this track which is devoid of many instruments and works wonders with its simple International tune arrangement.

9.Hey Ganaraya-Divya Kumar

Get ready to experience a divine spiritual number with exotic rhythm and Hindustani touches. Kudos to Sachin-Jigar in composing a modern fusion and paying tribute to Lord Ganesha in an innovative manner. Be it the fast paced speeds, Divya Kumar's flawless vocals or the thumping chorus, everything elevates this song to a higher level. Pure magic!

10.Tattoo-Shefali Alvares

Though the song begins on a plain techno rhythm, it gains momentum once Shefali Alvares comes in. She is the heroine of this song as her vocals are so raw and natural that they stay with you for a long time. This number is sure to rock the charts as it sounds much like 'Love mera hit hit' from Billu Barber. Tattoo is another winner in this album and it is sure to rock the charts!

Verdict:

Sachin-Jigar have catapulted to the top notch of music directors with this fantastic soundtrack. ABCD 2 is the coolest album of this summer!

Rating: ****

Picks:

Bezubaan Phir Se,Sun Saathiya,Chunar,Happy Birthday,Happy Hour,Hey Ganaraya,Tattoo

Inimey Ippadithaan Music Review

Movie: Inimey Ippadithaan

Cast: Santhanam,Ashna Zaveri

Director: Muruganand

Music director: Santhosh Kumar Dhayanidhi

1.Paatha Oru Lookula-Gana Bala

A typical mass gaana number opens this colorful album. It contains the usual elements of an enjoyable folk song. Energetic beats, trumpet sections and guitar strums accompany the funny rendition by Gana Bala. The lyrics are gibberish and youngster-friendly. 

2.Athana Azhagayum-Varun Parandhaman,Sofia Ashraf

An innovative composition by debutante Santhosh Kumar Dhayanidhi who is A.R.Rahman's junior assistant. This peppy number begins with a rock feel and rap section. Then it moves onto some dynamic rendition by Varun Parandhaman who croons flawlessly with the right amount of modulations. The rock guitar strums, rock n roll sessions and a melodious flute solo in the interlude turns this number into a potpourri of sounds. Sofia Ashraf's vocals also enlighten the mood of the song. Cool and trendy!

3.Thaedi Odunaen-Santhosh Kumar Dhayanidhi,Aalaap Raju

The composer himself turns a singer with this beautiful number. One cannot categorize this number as a pathos because the beats, instrumentation and the tune arrangement pass through various genres of music. Aalaap Raju's rendition in the charanam is sweet-sounding as usual. Another innovative short composition!

4.Innimey Ippadithaan-Karthik,Aishvarya

A breezy duet takes the next place. This is the most easily accessible number of the album with its simple tune arrangement and orchestration. R&B beats throughout the song works in favor of it. Karthik proves that he is still the best for melodious numbers while Aishvarya too croons with passion in her voice. Chartbuster!

5.Azhaga Aanazhaga-Harini

Another wonderful innovative composition that indulges a plethora of genres into a single number. It is a classical number but with folk beats accompanying all the way. The funny lyrics are the icing on the cake. Harini's rendition is top class with her honey-dipping voice weaving magic in each line. The flute solos in the interludes provide a magnificence to the entire number. Lively and enjoyable!

6.Aathula Oru Kaal-Mahalingam,Thalapathi,Sapta

With unheard names crooning this number, it is a foot-tapping bar song that is completely filled with melody sections, gibberish lyrics, simple beats and typical folk-ish interludes. A perfect end to an innovative album!

Verdict:

Santhosh Kumar Dhayanidhi proves that he is a promising composer to look out for. He engages sounds that are contemporary and makes each and every number a treat to listen to. Inimey Ippadithaan is a surprise package of this season!

Rating: ***3/4

Picks:

Athana Azhagayum,Thaedi Odunaen,Innimey Ippadithaan,Azhaga Aanazhaga