PK Music Review

Movie: PK (2014)

Cast: Aamir Khan,Anushka Sharma

Director: Rajkumar Hirani

Music director: Shantanu Moitra,Ajay-Atul,Ankit Tiwari

 

Well, if it's a Rajkumar Hirani film, then there is supposed to be high dosage of comedy and some funky music. Boasting of popular names like Aamir Khan and Anushka Sharma, it is evident that the music of this film has been much awaited for. With three composers on board, let's see whether the music is as funky as it is assumed to be.

1.Tharki Chokro-Swaroop Khan

This is what is called as kickstarting an album! The energy that this Rajasthani folk possesses is unmatchable to any other number in the recent times. Indian Idol contestant Swaroop Khan has his way with this song, blending his voice to add the right amount of zeal to this foot tapping number. Guest composer Ajay-Atul whips in a fresh and colorful track that is sure to be a chartbuster. A great beginning!

2.Love Is Waste Of Time-Sonu Nigam,Shreya Ghoshal

A breezy and funky duet that is groovy and pleasant to the ears at the same time. Backed up by violins and harmonica for each line, this track gets even lovable as it progresses. Sonu Nigam's childish rendition is the icing on the sweet cake and Shreya Ghoshal serves as an extra topping on it. Though you can't fail to notice its similarity with Zoobi Doobi, you can still enjoy this peppy number for its innocence.

3.Nanga Punga Dost-Shreya Ghoshal

Beginning with laidback guitar strums and mellowed violin, this solo number is groovy with quirky lyrics. Shanthanu composes this number in a nursery rhyme like pattern that is instantly likeable. Shreya Ghoshal's voice is slightly modulated to bring in the naughtiness mood of the song. Nevertheless, it is the violin that stands out in this track. Enjoyable!

4.Chaar Kadam-Shaan,Shreya Ghoshal

Here comes a love ballad that has a retro feel to it. It is an haunting melody that will grow on you on the very first listen. The mystical piano touches are an added advantage to the beautiful number. This track is sure to make it to the radio stations and stay on for a longer time. And Shaan! He is amazing in his perfect rendition and Shreya Ghoshal complements him well. A lovely duet for the romantics!

5.Bhagwan Hai Kahan Re Tu-Sonu Nigam

After a series of catchy yet melodious songs, the album switches to a spiritual mode with this number. Sonu Nigam's emotional singing makes the song a situational one. He brings out the sensations of sorrow with his voice and it is his show all the way. Shanthanu Moitra's orchestration is perfect and Swanand Kirkire's lyrics strike a chord with the listeners.

6.Dil Darbar-Ankit Tiwari

Ankit Tiwari appears as a guest composer with this number. This number is a soft rock that has touches of Ankit's previous works. It sounds like Galliyan at many places which makes this number to lay two notches below the other numbers. It also gets boring mid way and falls into a mundane template later. Could have been better!

7.PK Dance Theme-Instrumental

The album arrives at a finale with this instrumental piece. Despite being termed as a dance theme, it is a sweet instrumental with crazy string sections that is easy on the ears. Kudos to Shanthanu Moitra!

Verdict:

Shanthanu Moitra's PK is a musically rich album that must not be missed. Though it has shades of 3 Idiots, it is rarely noticeable in this awesome soundtrack.

Rating: ***3/4

Picks:

Tharki Chokro,Nanga Punga Dost,Chaar Kadam

 

Lingaa Music Review

Movie: Lingaa

Cast: Rajinikanth,Sonakshi Sinha,Anushka Shetty

Director: K.S.Ravikumar

Music director: Dr.A.R.Rahman

  

The much awaited Lingaa is here with K.S.Ravikumar directing it and Dr.A.R.Rahman composing for it. And what's more! It boasts of Rajinikanth, the name which brings a smile to every movie lover's lips. Let's find out whether the songs have matched up to expectations.

1.Oh Nanba-S.P.Balasubrahmanyam,Aaryan Dinesh Kanagaratnam

Yes, this is Rajinikanth's intro song! Does it even sound like that? The answer is surprisingly no. A.R.Rahman has composed just a passable song that is far from the previous intro songs that he has tuned for Rajini's appearance. The only noticeable thing in the number is the evergreen voice of S.P.Balasubrahmanyam. Otherwise, this track is much unlikely that it comes from A.R.Rahman. Not a good start!

2.En Mannava-Srinivas,Aditi Paul

An old fashioned duet that is perfect for a periodic film like this. But when seen as an individual number, it has just got an average tune and it makes us wonder whether we are really listening to A.R.Rahman. Though it is likeable by melody lovers, it won't be liked universally. It is refreshing to listen to Srinivas after a long time. Aditi Paul is melodious in her rendition though she has to get her pronunciation corrected.

3.Indiane Vaa-Dr.A.R.Rahman

A thumping track that comes as a much relief to the otherwise plain album. It is a patriotic number that builds up energy with each passing minute. And it gets even better with A.R.Rahman's voice and the backing up chorus. The orchestration is perfect with the right sounds at the right places. But still the album doesn't gain momentum!

4.Mona Gasolina-Mano,Neeti Mohan,Tanvi Shah

Wow! Thank god! Here comes the extraordinary Rahman track at last. This number is sure to rock the charts and it will be ruling all the radio stations within a few days. Right from the prelude till the last, this six minute rocking number speaks about Rahman's ability to compose out of the box. Mano is just exuberant with his power packed vocals and Neeti Mohan sounds like a veteran. The instrumentation in the interlude and the desi feel in the charanams are oh-so Rahmanish that will make us to listen to the track on loop. A chartbuster for sure!

5.Unmai Orunaal Vellum-Haricharan

Well, am I listening to A.R.Rahman? Once again we wonder as the number sounds more like a S.A.Rajkumar tune rather than Rahman. There were n  number of pathos composed by Rahman for Rajinikanth. They were all awesome. But with this, he has run out of tunes. Even Haricharan can't save the song from ending up as a failure. Boring end!

Verdict:

Where is A.R.Rahman? I need to know. After an outstanding album like I, it is pathetic to see him come up with an average album. That too for Rajinikanth, especially after fantastic albums like Padayappa,Sivaji and Enthiran. Hoping for a comeback of my God Rahman!

Rating: **3/4

Picks: 

Mona Gasolina

Kayal Music Review

Movie: Kayal

Cast: Chandran,Anandhi

Director: Prabhu Solomon

Music director: D.Imman

 

 

1. Paravaya Parakurom-Haricharan

A carefree song begins this much awaited album. It is completely Haricharan's show as he gets a tailor made tune for him. This song adds yet another feather in his already filled cap. The violin interludes are stunning as with every D.Imman's song. A pleasant start!

2.Yengirinthu Vandhaayo-Shreya Ghoshal

Beginning with a flute prelude, this melodious number is one of the picks of the album. Shreya Ghoshal and D.Imman are synonyms to each other. The former is a lucky charm for the latter's albums. Shreya emotes well and it's unlikely to find a flaw with her singing. The rustic feel of the song takes it to another level. And here too the interludes play a huge part in the mellifluous flow of the number. Soulful!

3.Yen Aala Paakaporen-KG Ranjith,Shreya Ghoshal

The hit combo is back with a bang after the phenomenal success of Sollitaaley from Kumki. And they weave magic with each line. They are the only saving factors in the otherwise ordinary tune. Imman gets repetitive with his template. Nevertheless this one is refreshing to listen for a lovey-dovey evening.

4.Koodave Varamaathiri-Alphons Joseph

It's a short pathos number crooned to excellence by Alphons Joseph. He does another Aaromale, albeit this is a rustic one. This song seems to be a situational one rather than a complete track.

5.Unna Ippo Paakanum-Haricharan,Vandana Srinivasan

This one is another pick of the album! A perfect rustic duet that is a must listen for everyone. And what's more, it is rendered by the versatile Haricharan. Complementing him is Vandana Srinivasan's honey-dipping voice. The tune sounds Ilaiyaraja-ish and that is it's beauty. The interludes deserve a special mention as they are composed to a perfect ten. Hit the repeat button!

6.Yenga Pulla Iruka-Balram,Shreya Ghoshal

Another excellent track which is on the lines of Onnum puriyala and Verasa pogaiyile. Though the progress of the tune is slow, it is the magnificent orchestration which will take you by surprise. And Balram is just wow! He has a haunting voice that is sure to give goosebumps for the listeners. Shreya Ghoshal's bit in the interlude peps up the number. Exhilarating!

7.Deeyalo Deeyalo-Gopu

It is typical of Imman to include a pure folk number in his album as with his previous tie up with Prabhu Solomon in Mynaa and Kumki. With a prelude that integrates instruments like kanjira and tambourine, this number is a foot tapping one. Imman's usage of a repetitive toy sound in between the lines is visible from his Soi soi days. Singer Gopu adds even more rustic flavor to the song. A good ending!

Verdict:

D.Imman delivers yet another hit album for Prabhu Solomon. Though there are shades of his previous works, the soundtrack ends up as a wholesome entertainer. It would get even better if Imman composes out of his template.

Rating: ***

Picks:

Yengirinthu Vandhaayo,Unna Ippo Paakanum,Yenga Pulla Iruka

Isai Music Review

Movie: Isai

Cast: S.J.Suryah,Sulagna Panigrahi

Director: S.J.Suryah

Music director: S.J.Suryah 

It is S.J.Suryah who rules over here. He directs,composes and acts in the film. With a musical title like 'Isai', let's see how the songs have turned up.

1.HNY Puthandin-S.J.Suryah

The musical album kick starts with a party track that is high on energy. With techno beats, S.J.Suryah's digitalized voice and the backup vocals, this song is sure to make its way to the party floors. The electronic guitar is used very well in this tantalizing yet soft fast number. The track has an overall 80s feeling and sounds similar to Ilamai Idho Idho. An upbeat beginning!

2.Isai Veesi-Chinmayi Sripada

Wow! That's the only word I can say. This soft melody is mesmerizing right from the beginning and it instantly hooks you on. The slow laid back beats with dulcet guitar strums and birds chirping makes it overall scintillating. I am running out of words to describe Chinmayi's singing. She sings with elan and her whispery rendition is the highlight. And of course, the track is composed in my favorite raga Keeravani which makes it a haunting listen. Gives you goosebumps! Hit the repeat button!

 3.Atho Vaanile Nila-Karthik,Chinmayi,Deva

A retro duet that has foot tapping beats and minimal orchestration. S.J.Suryah must be applauded for weaving a simple yet catchy tune that will ask for a repeated listening. When it comes to antique compositions, Karthik voice suits the best. Chinmayi once again yields the megaphone and she is just awesome. Composer and gaana singer Deva's bit in the second interlude comes as a surprise.

4.Nee Poiya-Vijay Yesudhas

This pathos begins with slight piano notes that is taken over by the flute. And then begins the real magic when Vijay Yesudhas begins crooning. He brings out the gloominess and sounds like a lovelorn guy. This number is sure to find a special place in Tamil sad songs list. Hats off to S.J.Suryah for this endearing track!

5.Dirty Dancing-Shalini Singh

A song that falls into two categories: Hip hop and Kuthu. Though it seems to be upbeat, it gets repetitive and you will find yourself hitting the skip button. Maybe this number is the weakest in the album. Even Shalini Singh can't save the track from ending up as a mundane one.

6.Lip Lock Theme-Chinmayi

It's a beautiful theme backed up by Chinmayi's breezy vocals and lilting piano tones. It is short, sweet and enchanting to listen!

7.She Is His Piano Theme-Chinmayi

A piano theme composed in Keeravani raga. Of course, it is the instrumental version of Isai Veesi number. Chinmayi makes an appearance yet again and this time she is engaged with additional mild chorus. This theme is magical as long as it lasts!

8.Baby Theme-Chinmayi

The album comes to an ending with a short lullaby in the voice of Chinmayi. The slight beats,guitar strums and piano notes are lilting as usual.

Verdict:

Now we get to see S.J.Suryah's another dimension and he spells magic with his debut album. The songs are melodious and Chinmayi rules throughout the entire album. Kudos to S.J.Suryah!

Rating: ***

Picks:

Isai Veesi,Nee Poiya,Lip Lock Theme,She Is His Piano Theme

 

Anegan Music Review

Movie: Anegan

Cast: Dhanush,Karthik,Amyra Dastur

Director: K.V.Anand

Music director: Harris Jayaraj

K.V.Anand is back with his new venture 'Anegan' starring the talented Dhanush,evergreen Karthik and beautiful Amyra Dastur. And once again, Anand ropes in Harris Jayaraj to deliver some magical tunes. Has Harris done justice to the album? Let's find out!

1.Danga Maari Oodhari-Dhanush,Marana Gana Viji,Naveen Madhav

Wow! What a marana mass beginning to the album! This folk song is top notch in terms of composition. And Harris plays it well within his comfort zone. Dhanush excels with his Madras baasha rendition and Marana Gana Viji is equally powerful. Watch out for the rhythm change in the second interlude which makes the song all the more endearing. Definitely a chartbuster!

2.Roja Kadale-Shankar Mahadevan,Sunidhi Chauhan,Chinmayi Sripada

And here comes Harris Jayaraj's signature composition that joins the bandwagon of Hasili Fisili,Amali Thumali,Akila Akila,Lolita,Latchan Calorie,etc. There is a little bit of all the previous songs in this one. But apart the deja vu feeling, it's a candyfloss number that is sure to be liked by the romantics. Shankar Mahadevan surprises with his casual yet stunning rendition while it is Chinmayi's voice that comes as a refreshment in this breezy track. Though Sunidhi Chauhan's part is less, she makes quite an impact!

3.Aathadi Aathadi-Bhavatharini,Tippu,Dhanush,Abhay Jodhpurkar

A laid back composition that is on the lines of Innum konja neram from Mariyaan. With it's simple tune and less orchestration, Harris delivers a soft folk melody that is sure to linger in your ears for a long time. It is Bhavatharini who rules the song backed up by Tippu and others. The tabla in the second interlude wins a thumbs up. A surprise number by Harris that sounds Rahmanish!

4.YOLO (You Live Only Once)-Shail Hada,Ramya NSK,Richard,MC Vickey,Eden

Making use of a popular internet slang YOLO, Harris weaves a tune that integrates Caribbean beats and some funky singing by Shail Hada. C.S.Amudhan's gibberish lyrics never seem to be boring and peps up the tune even more. Ramya NSK makes a brief appearance in the second charanam with her effervescent voice. A sunny track that makes you go ga-ga!

5.Thodu Vaanam-Hariharan,Shakthisree Gopalan

How can a Harris Jayaraj album be without a lilting melody? And when it is Hariharan yielding the megaphone, it becomes classy and mellifluous. The loaded up orchestration in the second interlude comes as a refreshing change in the otherwise repetitive pattern. Shakthisree Gopalan is as awesome as always, though she gets less crooning space. Highlight of the album!

6.Deivangal Ingae-Sriram Parthasarathy

Yet another Harris melody with Kabilan Vairamuthu's exhilirating lyrics that uses some rare Tamil words from Sangam literature. The chorus and bells give us a spiritual feeling with Sriram Parthasarathy rendering the gamakas flawlessly. Though not laudable like the other tracks, this one is short and sweet!

Verdict:

Yes, Harris Jayaraj is back! After some not-so-good albums like Idhu Kathirvelan Kaadhal and Yaan, he proves his mettle with Anegan. The tunes are breezy, though they give a heard before feeling. This soundtrack is sure to stay for a tad longer in your playlists!

Rating: ***1/2

Picks: 

Danga Maari Oodhari,Roja Kadale,Thodu Vaanam

Kaththi music review

Movie: Kaththi

Cast: Vijay,Samantha

Director: A.R.Murugadoss

Music director: Anirudh Ravichander

1.Pakkam Vanthu-Hip Hop Tamizha Aadhi,Anirudh Ravichander

Well, if it's hip hop tamizha, then its sure to be a hip hop track. An energetic party number that is sure to rock the dance floors in the coming days. Embedded with gibberish lyrics and slight folk beats, this song gets interesting with Anirudh's soulful rendering in the 'Manamey manamey' line. A rocking pub song!

2.Paalam-Shankar Mahadevan,Shwetha Mohan

Right from the beginning of this song, there is grandness written all over it. A carnatic folk song that turns even more beautiful in the powerful voice of Shankar Mahadevan. And of course, Shwetha Mohan excels in this number with her sweet voice. The chorus is an added advantage which brings out the celebratory mood of this track. The rhythm turns faster towards the end which gives this song a grand finishing.

 3.Kaththi Theme-Anirudh Ravichander

Anirudh brings out a theme that is high on energy. There are the sounds of knives clashing which makes the theme stay true to the movie's title. The major instrument used in this track is the Urumi melam along with digitalized Santoor and Bagpipers.

4.Selfie Pulla-Vijay,Sunidhi Chauhan

A tailor made track for Vijay that completely satisfies all the requirements needed for a peppy number. This song is going out to be the chartbuster of the year as it has been loaded with oodles of energy and some powerful rendition by Vijay and Sunidhi Chauhan. With lyrics like 'Facebook' 'Instagram' and 'Selfie', this one is a uber cool modern number that is sure to be enjoyed by all the youngsters!

5.Bad Eyes Theme-Anirudh Ravichander

This theme has been composed with lots of flute loops, Sitar and bhols that turns extraordinary with the water splashed in the background. Anirudh does a great job in bringing out this theme.

6.Yaar Petra Magano-K.J.Yesudhas

A sentimental piece in the evergreen voice of legendary singer is something special in this generation. Anirudh makes this pathos as soul stirring as possible. The guitar strums give it a contemporary touch that saves the song from turning out be a complete 80s number. The occasional humming by Anirudh adds spice to the mellifluous number. Classic in all the ways!

7.Aathi Ena Nee-Vishal Dadlani,Anirudh

 And here comes the signature track of Anirudh! This one is the highlight of the entire album. A groovy R&B number that instantly hooks you on. Vishal's voice flows fluently along with the simple rhythm of this song. With no much instrumentation, this number excels with its overall simplicity and the romantic feel that it carries along. A soulful modern number!

Verdict:

Anirudh once again proves that he is a youth-friendly composer. With tracks that are peppy and catchy, this album is sure to stay on the charts for a long time.

Rating: ***1/2

Picks:

Pakkam Vanthu,Selfie Pulla,Aathi Ena Nee