Tharai Thappatai Music Review

Movie: Tharai Thappatai

Cast: M.Sasikumar,Varalaxmi Sarathkumar

Director: Bala

Music director: Ilaiyaraaja

1.Hero Intro Theme-Instrumental

When the Nadaswaram begins in the prelude, Ilaiyaraaja captivates us right at that moment. This theme is no ordinary one. It has all the elements to scorch the screens. The essence of karakattam is brought out in this theme by the phenomenal usage of Nadaswaram and Thavil. 

2.Vathana Vathana Vadivelan-Kavitha Gopi,Priyadarshini

This gem of a folk song from Ilaiyaraaja is sure to take you back to the 80s. He composes a simple tune within his folk template that is all the way endearing. Especially the powerhouse singing by Kavitha Gopi and Priyadarshini, backed by equally energetic vocals makes it a sureshot winner instantly. 

3.Paruruvaaya-Sathya Prakash,Surmukhi

Thiruvasagam cannot get better than this. Ilaiyaraaja churns out a true classic with this heartmelting soulful composition. Carnatic music is at its purest form here with the scintillating Veena sections and the laidback rhythm. Both Surmukhi and Sathya Prakash elevate the pathos mood of the song with their pitch perfect gamaka-filled rendition. It is rare to find such heartrending classical songs in this era, but it's Ilaiyaraaja, hence it's a masterpiece!

4.Idarinum-Sharreth

Here comes yet another classical song that is done to perfection by the Maestro. This number is sure to bring tears to your eyes if you allow yourself to close your eyes, plug on the headphones and get drenched in the essence of the tune. Sharreth's heartwrenching rendition with his evergreen gamakas is sure to move your soul. Ilaiyaraaja indulges the Sarangi, Tambura and Tabla elegantly which makes it a gem!

5.Aattakkari Maman Ponnu-Prasanna,MM Manasi

A carefree song from Ilaiyaraaja takes you back to the 80s, when such lovely songs ruled the charts. Once again the vintage orchestration by the Maestro plays a major role in the tune progression. Prasanna's voice is playful while MM Manasi's bold rendition deserves an applause. The topping of this track is it's thisra nadai rhythm which is addictive. Simple yet elegant!

6.Tharai Thappatai Theme-Instrumental

If you want to feel fresh and energetic, then I recommend you pick up this theme music and listen to it. The soul of the movie lies in this theme which is filled with live orchestration, Chenda melam, Nadaswaram, Thavil, Conch sounds, Tharai thappatai, Urumi and Udukkai. Even after the track ends, it is sure to leave a lingering taste in your ear drums!

7.Aarambam Aavathu-Ananthu

Ilaiyaraaja rehashes the ethereal number Aarambam Aavadhu from the movie Thanga Padhumai, originally composed by Vishwanathan Ramamoorthy. Maestro retains the soul of the song intact, but it seems out of track in the otherwise epic album. Ananthu's modulated singing and the dialogues in between too fail to impress.

Verdict:

Here comes yet another masterpiece from Ilaiyaraaja who brings out the cultural tradition of Tamilnadu via his mindblowing tunes. The album is classically rich, mellifluous, heartwarming and thought-provoking at the same time!

Rating: ***3/4

Picks:

Paruruvaaya,Idarinum,Aattakkari Maman Ponnu,Tharai Thappatai Theme