Naa Peru Surya Naa Illu India Music Review

Movie: Naa Peru Surya Naa Illu India

Cast: Allu Arjun, Anu Emmanuel, Arjun Sarja, Sarathkumar

Director: Vakkantham Vamsi

Music director (s): Vishal-Shekhar

1. Sainika - Vishal Dadlani

This is an ultimately fast-paced song that serves as a dedication to the soldiers of Indian Army. With thumping beats and blaring orchestration, this song is sure to invoke feelings of patriotism in listeners. Vishal Dadlani croons Ramajogayya Sastry's motivational lyrics perfectly with his hoarse voice. This number is sure to scorch the screens, with Allu Arjun playing some tough montage scenes. Chartbuster!

2. Lover Also Fighter Also - Shekhar Ravjiani

This song focuses on the hero wooing his love interest. The tune falls under the commercial template and doesn't impact much. Shekhar Ravjiani's vocals are flawless, while the orchestration and arrangement falls short. The only saving factor is the foot-tapping rhythm that would make listeners go for a second listen. Might fare better with the visuals. 

3. Beautiful Love - Armaan Malik, Chaitra Ambadipudi

Released as the third single, this breezy melody is a pleasing romantic ballad. It has a Bollywood-ish feel because of Armaan Malik's mellifluous voice. Chaitra Ambadipudi complements him well with her lovely vocals. Though the tune is simplistic, Vishal-Shekhar paint it with a effervescent soundscape and make it engaging. This one is sure to climb the charts in the upcoming days. Perfect for a lovey-dovey evening!

4. Maya - Arijit Singh, Ramya Behera

Another love song continues the soundtrack. The number begins as a melodious one, but soon veers off to a foot-tapping folk section. Then it sways between both the genres. Vishal-Shekhar have handled it well and it doesn't end up as a confusing tune. Arijit Singh renders with elan and Ramya Behera croons at ease. However, it takes time for the tune to sink in and it might not go down well with some listeners.

5. Yenniyello Yenniyello - Malavika

This short track is sure to serve as a background for a montage sequence. It has a devotional feel and foot-tapping rhythm that make it an engaging listen. Malavika's sweet voice and the ebullient chorus elevate the mood of the song.

6. Iraga Iraga - Rahul Sipligunj, Mohana Bhogaraju

A high-on-energy folksy duet brings the album to a grand finale. The repetitive phrase 'Iraga Iraga...' is sure to become an anthem in the upcoming days. Rahul Sipligunj and Mohana Bhogaraju's powerful vocals increase the intoxicating mood of the song. Expect some scorching dance moves from Allu Arjun and Anu Emmanuel in this one. Though the track is chartbuster material, it falls into a stereotyped folk template.

Verdict:

Vishal-Shekhar's sophomore Telugu soundtrack is stamped with commercial elements and doesn't have any innovative songs. However, it is sure to enchant Allu Arjun's fans and might stay on air for a long time.

Rating: **1/2 (2.5 / 5)

Picks:

Sainika, Beautiful Love

Aravindante Athidhikal Music Review

Movie: Aravindante Athidhikal

Cast: Vineeth Sreenivasan, Sreenivasan, Aju Varghese, Urvashi, Nikhila Vimal

Director: M. Mohanan

Music director: Shaan Rahman

1. Kanne Thaai Malare - Vineeth Sreenivasan

Shaan Rahman opens the album with a pleasing song that spreads a hymn-like feel throughout. The unplugged soundscape makes for a beautiful listen and all the efforts fall on Vineeth Sreenivasan's fantastic rendition. The overall package is an innovative dedication to the Goddess Mookambika, as Shaan Rahman progresses the tune only with the vocals, accompanying piano notes and strings.

2. Rasathi - Vineeth Sreenivasan, Liya Susan Verghese

Beginning with an ebullient flute section, this melodious number takes the listeners on a A.R. Rahmani-sh journey. Shaan Rahman's tune is sweet and the accompanying string section is a major plus point. The flute sections, coupled with the mellowed piano notes, chenda melam and the vibrant chorus (Liya Susan Verghese's vocals) in the first interlude, deserve a standing ovation. Magical!

3. Aanandhame - Anne Amie

Shaan Rahman continues to weave magic with yet another heartmelting melody. With minimal orchestration, the song scores high on Anne Amie's mellifluous vocals and Vineeth Sreenivasan's backing vocals. The only complaint here is the length. Wish Shaan had composed this as a full-fledged song. Another winner!

4. Endhe Kanna - Megha Josekutty

A breezy melody is up next in the album. The effervescent soundscape, coupled with debutante Megha Josekutty's honeyed voice, makes for a beautiful listen. Shaan Rahman indulges in abundant piano and strings to make the number all the more wonderful. The accompanying flute and male humming are the icing on the cake. You just cannot stop listening to this one!

5. Kripaakari Devi - Mithun Jayaraj

This is yet another dedication to Goddess Mookambika. However, this one has a fast-paced tune with lots of chenda melam and traditional instruments used in it. Mithun Jayaraj's devotional rendition is top-class here. The repetitive chant 'Kripaakari devi...' is addictive. Shaan Rahman couldn't have given a more dashing ending to the album.

Verdict:

This is a classic soundtrack from Shaan Rahman. The melodious songs are sure to stay in your playlists for a long time. Enjoy these songs on a lovey-dovey evening!

Rating: ****1/2 (4.5 / 5)

Picks:

Rasathi, Aanandhame, Endhe Kanna

Raazi Music Review

Movie: Raazi

Cast: Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal

Director: Meghna Gulzar

Music director(s): Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy

1. Ae Watan - Arijit Singh

This mesmerizing number has patriotism stamped all over it. Dedicated to Alia Bhatt's character Sehmat, this number has a heartmelting tune and moving lyrics by the legendary Gulzar. SEL punctuate the entire song with some bright percussion and brilliant string arrangement. Arijit Singh croons with elan and makes the number an emotional listen. The track traces the journey of Sehmat from a daughter to a wife and then to a spy. First pick of the album!

2. Dilbaro - Harshdeep Kaur, Vibha Saraf, Shankar Mahadevan

A mild celebratory song is up next. This number has every element of a wedding song, though it's not energetic and danceable. With its simplistic tune, this song captures every listener who loves light folk music. Harshdeep Kaur is the perfect singer for this number, while Vibha Saraf's occasional quipping elevates the mood of the song. However, it is Shankar Mahadevan's bit towards the end that stands as the highlight. A special mention to the efficient usage of Rabab and Sarangi.

3. Raazi - Arijit Singh

Arijit Singh gets to render yet another enthralling number. This song also has a patriotic feel, albeit its light folksy touches. SEL make this number more endearing by indulging the tune in some excellent mandolin sections and a thumping rhythm. Overall, the number has a 90s feel that makes us want more of it. However, it's a lengthy number. Hence, the listeners have much to enjoy and appreciate here. Addictive! Hit the repeat button!

4. Ae Watan (Female) - Sunidhi Chauhan

This version also has the same mood of the male version. Sunidhi Chauhan gets to display her best here and she renders Gulzar's patriotic lyrics flawlessly. She is accompanied by an astounding kids' chorus. SEL reach the purple patch with this song. Another winner!

Verdict:

This soundtrack once again showcases Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's versatility. The songs are instant winners and are expected to rule the charts in the coming days.

Rating: ****3/4 (4.75 / 5)

Picks:

Ae Watan (both versions), Raazi

Mayamalavagowla Raga - Tamil songs in Mayamalavagowla, the harmonious raga.

Dubbed as the easiest raga to learn, Mayamalavagowla is the raga that is used to introduce beginners to Carnatic music. This harmonious raga has been extensively used in many Tamil film songs. There are songs that have happy tones and then there are songs that have melancholic undertones. Nevertheless, this is a joyful raga that is easy on the ears and an absolute cakewalk for singers. My favourite classical composition in this raga is Thyagaraja's ethereal kirtan Tulasi Dalamulache.  Let us see some Tamil movie songs composed in Mayamalavagowla raga.

The ancient composition Govinda Varadha Srihari Gopala from the lost Tamil film Thukkaram that released way back in 1938. This movie featured the Carnatic singer Musiri Subramaniam Iyer. Composed by Susarla Dakshinamurthy, the peppy dance number Azhagaana Ponnu Naan from the movie Alibabavum 40 Thirudargalum. Bhanumathi Ramakrishna's effortless singing would have elevated the sensuousness of the number. Another wonderful composition is from Viswanathan-Ramamoorthy duo. The song Kallellam Manickka Kallaguma from the movie Alayamani is a perfect example of Mayamalavagowla. Sung by T.M. Soundarrajan and L.R. Eswari, this is one of those rare numbers where this delightful raga is heard in its purest form.

Ilaiyaraaja's foray into this raga began with the composition Andhapurathil Oar Maharani from the 1977 Sivaji Ganesan movie Dheepam. And then he started composing some mesmerizing numbers in Mayamalavagowla. Some of the popular songs include Kaadhal Kavidhaigal Padithidum from Gopura Vaasalile, Poongathave Thaazhthiravai from Nizhalgal (such a beautiful semi-classical composition) and Nandri Sollave Unakku from Udan Pirappu. There are also many innovative Ilaiyaraaja compositions in this raga which include the devotional Maariyamma Maariyamma from Karagaattakaaran and Poova Eduthu from Amman Kovil Kizhakkale. Though there are many more songs to name, these are some of the astounding numbers in Mayamalavagowla.

A.R. Rahman indulged this raga in its purest form in Hai Rama Yeh Kya Hua (Hai Rama Oar Varama in Tamil) from the movie Rangeela and the song Sollayo Solaikili (Sunta Hai Mera Khuda in Hindi) from the movie Alli Arjuna. The song Konjum Mainakale from the movie Kandukondain Kandukondain too has traces of this raga and the most recent composition Oh Nanba Nanba (a catchy foot-tapping introduction song for Superstar Rajnikanth) from Lingaa is based on this raga. 

Other songs in Mayamalavagowla are:

1. Solladi Abirami from Adhiparasakthi

2. Andhi Varum Neram from Mundhanai Mudichu by Ilayaraja

3. Enga Ooru Laila Laila from Karagattakaari  by Ilayaraja

4. Idho Idho En Nenjile from Vattathukkul Sathuram

5. Kuyila Pudichu from Chinnathambi  by Ilayaraja

6. Manadhil Urudhi Vendum from Manadhil Urudhi Vendum  

7. Maasaru Ponne Varuga from Thevar Magan  by Ilayaraja

8. Sivagami Nenapinile from Kili Petchu Ketkava  by Ilayaraja

9. Uyire Uyire Urugadhe from Oruvar Vaazhum Aalayam

Suddhadhanyasi Raga - Tamil songs in Suddhadhanyasi raga. The enchanting raga.

Much like its name, Suddhadhanyasi is a pure classical raga that is enchanting to listen. This fascinating raga has been in film music right from the golden days. It is also the favourite raga for many composers. Let us take a look at all the ancient, medieval and new-age Tamil songs composed in this soulful raga.

Beginning from the song Vaa Vaa Valarmathiye from the 1957 Sivaji Ganesan movie Vanangamudi, this raga has been effectively used in many film songs. This song composed by G. Ramanathan and sung by M.L. Vasanthakumari was a huge hit during those days and it incorporates many brilliant sangadhis. In Viswanathan-Ramamoorthy's music, you have Kangal Enge from the legendary movie Karnan. This evergreen song was beautifully rendered by P. Susheela. Another well-known song which is a rage even today is the number Thottal Poo Malarum from the movie Padagotti. Composed by Viswanathan-Ramamoorthy, this is an enthralling romantic duet sung by T.M. Soundarrajan and P. Susheela. The remix version composed by A.R. Rahman for the movie New (2004) is also based on Suddhadhanyasi raga. The magical original version 'changed the outlook of this raga in films', as quoted by Wikipedia. 

Ilaiyaraaja too has composed many beautiful numbers in this raga. Right from the word go, Suddhdhanyasi is at an intelligent play in Vizhiyil Vizhundhu song from the movie Alaigal Oyivadhillai. Suddhadhanyasi is written all over in the ethereal Oru Poongavanam from the movie Agni Natchathiram. Sung wonderfully by S. Janaki, this song became a cult classic as days passed by. The folksy romantic duet Pothi Vecha Malliga Mottu from Manvaasanai is also based on this raga. Two popular songs Poovarasampoo Poothachu and Manjolai Kilithaano from the movie Kizhakku Pogum Rayil also has traces of Suddhadhanyasi. Another mesmerizing Ilaiyaraaja melody Maalaiyil Yaaro (rendered mellifluously by late Swarnalatha) from the movie Chathriyan is also composed in this beautiful raga. Ilaiyaraaja continued this Suddhadhanyasi streak into the 90s too. The songs Anandha Kuyilin Paatu from Kaadhalukku Mariyadhai, Kaadhal Vaanile from Raasaiyya and Deepangal Pesum from Devathai are classic examples of this raga. He has also indulged this raga cleverly in the highly westernized song Hey Unnai Thaane from the movie Kaadhal Parisu.

Later in the 2000s, Ilaiyaraaja incorporated Suddhadhanyasi in songs like Ilaiya Nadhi from Manasellam, Rukku Rukku Roop Kya from Friends and Enna Solli Paaduvadho from En Mana Vaanil. In the A.R. Rahman composed Kannodu Kanbadhellam from Jeans, Suddhadhanyasi will be interspersed with Abheri raga. Interestingly, Rahman has indulged in this raga for modern numbers like Majaa Majaa from Sillunu Oru Kaadhal, Irumbile Oru Irudhaiyum from Enthiran and Aila Aila from Ai. 

Other astounding Tamil songs in Suddhadhanyasi raga are:

1. Neeye Unakku Endrum from Bale Pandiya by MS Viswanathan

2. Aayiram Malargale Malarungal from Niram Maaradha Pookal

3. Chinna Chinna Mottu from Ninaikka Therindha Maname

4. Kaalaiyil Ketadhu Koyil Mani from Senthamizh Paattu by Ilayaraja

5. Kannindhu Varum Neram from Alai Osai

6. Kala Kalakkum Maniyosai from Eeramaana Rojaave by Ilayaraja

7. Naan Kaanum Ulangangal from Kaasi by Ilayaraja

8. Nadhiyoram from Annai Oar Aalayam

9. Oru Sundari Vandhalaam from Azhagi by Ilayaraja

10. Vaa Ponmayile from Poonthalir

Kapi raga - Tamil songs in Kapi raga

Kapi raga is an adorable celestial raga that overflows with intriguing musical notes and oozes melody from all its corners. This raga is interspersed with raga Pilu in many film songs. These songs provide a mesmerizing feel to the listeners. Many Tamil film music composers have indulged in this beautiful raga. There are many Tamil songs composed in this raga. Let's see some of the wonderful numbers based on Kapi. 

The oldest ever composition in this raga is the song Dhyaname Enadhu from the 1941 movie Ashok Kumar. Rendered ebulliently by legend M.K. Thyagaraja Bhagavathar, this song displays Kapi at its purest form. Another popular ancient number is Annaiyum Thandhaiyum Thaane from Haridas. Sung by MKT once again, this sangadhi-filled number shows Kapi's rich classical form. One more ideal example would be the song Nandabala from the legendary movie Meera. Bharat Ratna awardee M.S. Subbulakshmi would have played with the swaras in Kapi and delivered an ethereal number. The evergreen gem Senthamizh Thenmozhiyal from Malayitta Mangai is an exhilarating song in Kapi, composed by Viswanathan-Ramamoorthy and rendered amicably by T.R. Mahalingam. This innovative composition still remains as a favourite for semi-classical music lovers. Other riveting old compositions include Hari Hari Gokula from Tirumal Perumai, Kaadhal Siragai from Paalum Pazhamum (a heartmelting song sung by P. Susheela), Manjal Mugam from Karnan, and Andha Sivagami Maganidam from Pattanathil Bhootam (cult classic composed by Govardhanam). There are also many underrated old songs which are based on this raga.

Moving on to the 80s, the classic example of songs based on Kapi are the ones composed by Maestro Ilaiyaraaja. His endearing song Thumbi Va from the Malayalam movie Olangal is an enthralling piece in Kapi. Its Tamil counterpart Sangathil Paadadha from the movie Auto Raja is also based on this raga. Ilaiyaraaja's mesmerizing compositions like Kanne Kalaimaane from Moondram Pirai and Chinna Thaayaval from Thalapathi are cult classic songs that have Kapi in its purest form. Romantic duets Hey Paadal Ondru and Ennuyir Neethane from the 1978 movie Priya are some Kapi songs with Pilu touch. Ilaiyaraaja pushed the envelope by composing the foot-tapping folk number Thanni Thotti Thedi Vandha song from the classically rich movie Sindhu Bhairavi. 

A.R. Rahman also utilized this raga effectively in his soul-stirring composition En Mel Vizhundha from the movie May Maadham. Another remarkable song is Kaadhal Rojave from Roja (the humming bit is Desh raga). Rahman also used this raga to compose two uplifting songs from the movie Indian. One is the motivational patriotic number Kappaleri Poyachu and the other is the mellowed composition Pachaikiligal Tholodu. Oru Poyavadhu Sol Kanne from Jodi is a Kapi song with Pilu touches and the Hindi song Pyaar Ye Jaane from Rangeela is a moving piece based on Kapi.

Vidyasagar also forayed into Kapi with some of his finest compositions like Aalanguyil Koovum Rayil from Parthiban Kanavu and Kaadhal Vandhadhum from Poovellam Un Vaasam. Another delightful number in Kapi raga is the underrated song Mazhaiye Mazhaiye from the movie June R (composed by Malayalam composer Sharreth). More recent composition is the song Urugudhey Marugudhey from the 2006 movie Veyyil. Composed by G.V. Prakash Kumar, this song was beautifully rendered by Shankar Mahadevan and Shreya Ghoshal.

Other heartwarming songs in Kapi from Tamil Cinema:

1. Bathavukketra from Avvaiyar

2. Madura Nagaril Tamizh Sangam from Paar Magale Paar

3. Chembaruthi Poovu from Chembaruthi

4. Kannan Vandhadhaale from Thambi Pondatti

5. Saami Kitta from Aavaram Poo

6. Sugamo Aayiram from Thunaiyiruppal Meenakshi

Bharat Ane Nenu Music Review

Movie: Bharat Ane Nenu

Cast: Mahesh Babu, Kiara Advani

Director: Koratala Siva

Music director: Devi Sri Prasad

1. Bharat Ane Nenu - David Simon

DSP has churned out an inspirational title track that is sure to top the charts for a long time. With a constant rhythm and minimal orchestration, this number scores high on the political quotient. Ramajogayya Sastry's lyrics reflect on the hero's political motives, aims, goals and responsibilities. David Simon's vocals are apt for the slickness that the song requires. Though a bit lengthy, it can play out well along with the visuals.

2. I Don't Know - Farhan Akhtar

This peppy number has a foot-tapping rhythm and a tune that is instantly catchy. DSP's stamp is all over it. He spices up the song with some brilliant guitar strums and saxophone in the interludes. The song also marks the debut of Farhan Akhtar in Tollywood. He croons like a pro and his Telugu pronunciation is flawless. The overall packaging of the track makes it a chartbuster material.

3. Vachchadaiyo Saamy - Kailash Kher, Divya Kumar

Right from the word go, this song veers the listeners into a celebratory mood. Ramajogayya Sastry's political lyrics are sure to leave an emotional impact on the screen, coupled with Mahesh Babu's dance steps. Kailash Kher's vocals are perfect for the mood of the number, while Divya Kumar emotes well in the charanams. There's nothing new in the tune. Just a stereotypical DSP template.

4. Ide Kalala Vunnadhe - Andrea Jeremiah

DSP continues the commercial mood of the album with yet another racy number. But this time it is a refreshing love song that doesn't have any political intentions. With some peppy beats and hard rock orchestration, DSP peps up the romantic mood by throwing in some gentle piano notes and lovely humming in the first interlude and rockstar electronic guitar strums in the second interlude. However, the heroine of the song is Andrea Jeremiah. She croons with elan and is the perfect singer for this track. Highlight of the album!

5. O Vasumathi - Yazin Nizar, Rita 

Finally, DSP wraps up the album with a quintessential romantic duet. The song has a simplistic tune that hooks on to you instantly. In a few days, this song might be fighting for a place in the charts. Though DSP repeats his love song template, it is the vocals of Yazin Nizar and Rita that weave magic. A special mention for the veena bit in the second interlude which continues into the second charanam. Another winner!

Verdict:

After a chartbuster soundtrack in Rangasthalam, Devi Sri Prasad dishes out an album that caters strictly to his fans. A commercial mood is stamped all over it, which is actually a cakewalk for the composer.

Rating: **3/4 (2.75 / 5)

Picks:

Ide Kalala Vunnadhe, O Vasumathi 

Krishnarjuna Yuddham Music Review

Movie: Krishnarjuna Yuddham

Cast: Nani, Anupama Parameswaran, Rukshar Mir

Director: Merlapaka Gandhi

Music director: Hiphop Tamizha

1. Turn This Party Up - Hiphop Tamizha, Brodha V 

Hiphop Tamizha kickstarts this album with a high-on-energy party number. Since he is the composer, singer and lyricist of this song, it doesn't need any extra appreciation. Every party animal is sure to enjoy this number to the fullest. With enough rap to pull you on, this is one such track that would have many remixes and find its way into nightclubs.

2. Dhaari Choodu - Penchal Das

Very different from the first track, this song is an out-and-out folk number that brings out the essence of Tollywood in its purest form. With some foot-tapping beats and a simplistic tune, this number is made up of chartbuster material. Penchal Das' rendition is top-class, as his voice is apt for this dance song. Though there's nothing innovative in the tune, it can be enjoyed just for its fun factor. Enjoyable!

3. I Wanna Fly - LV Revanth, Sanjith Hegde

Up next is a romantic number that has a breezy feel right from the beginning. Sung beautifully by LV Revanth and Sanjith Hegde, this song has a lovely tune that is sure to stay on your playlists for a long time. It may even make it to the list of best romantic songs of 2018. Hiphop Tamizha accentuates this number with some enthralling English sections and light folk elements in the first interlude. Perfect number for a long drive with your loved one!

4. Ela Ela - Yazin Nizar

Yet another romantic number that has a effervescent tune. Though it has a heard-before feel, it can work with some listeners. What begins as a slow-paced love song picks up pace from the second interlude with some heavy beats and rich orchestration. The catchphrase 'never let me go...' is catchy and might become an anthem for youngsters in the upcoming days. Yazin Nizar sings with elan and emotes well in all the lines.

5. Urime Manase - Raghu Dixit

It is always a bliss to listen to rock-styled heartbreak songs. This number too joins that bandwagon. Hiphop Tamizha composes a hard-rock tune and peppers it with some brilliant orchestration. Raghu Dixit's hoarse tone works well for the mood of the song. The cacophony of violins in the interludes flows like honey on the ears. Overall, the number has a Bollywood feel and it might appeal to lovers of experimental music. Rock on!

6. Thaaney Vacchindhanaa - Kaala Bhairava, Padmalatha

With some light folk beats and a catchy tune, this is the only duet in the album. The breezy feel is maintained throughout and makes for a pleasant listen on lovey-dovey evenings. Kaala Bhairava croons with ease, while Padmalatha's soft vocals complement him well. However, the song loses steam towards the end and doesn't create the much needed impact.

Verdict:

Hiphop Tamizha's sophomore soundtrack in Telugu is a mixed bag. While some songs work well, some can be easily forgotten in the upcoming days. It's a commendable effort, though!

Rating: *** (3 / 5)

Picks:

I Wanna Fly, Urime Manase, Dhaari Choodu

I Don't Know - Bharat Ane Nenu Song Review

'Bharat Ane Nenu' is an upcoming political thriller directed by Koratala Siva. It has Mahesh Babu and Kiara Advani in the lead roles. Produced by DVV Entertainments, this movie has music by Devi Sri Prasad. The first single 'Song of Bharat' became a chartbuster on the first day of its release. Now, DSP has released the second single, tentatively titled 'I Don't Know'. This song is also on its way to match the mark of the first single.

The second single is really special, because it marks the debut of actor-director-producer-singer Farhan Akhtar in Tollywood. He croons like a pro and his Telugu pronunciation is flawless. Though he sounds like DSP sometimes, it is a commendable debut and we can expect more songs from him. 

Coming to the composition, this peppy number has a foot-tapping rhythm and a tune that is instantly catchy. DSP's stamp is all over it. He spices up the song with some brilliant guitar strums and saxophone in the interludes. Ramajogayya Sastri's Telugu-English lyrics are apt for the Spanish tango-like song. The overall packaging of the track makes it a chartbuster material.

Listen to the song here:

Check out 'Song of Bharat' song review here: Song of Bharat - Bharat Ane Nenu Song Review