Ungli Music Review

Movie: Ungli

Cast: Emraan Hashmi,Kangana Ranaut,Randeep Hooda,Sanjay Dutt

Director: Rensil D'Silva

Music director: Salim-Sulaiman,Sachin-Jigar,Gulraj Singh,Aslam Keyi

 

It has become a trend of these days to rope in multiple music directors for a soundtrack. Though this works for some albums, let us see whether it has worked in the favor of Ungli.

 

 

1.Dance Basanti-Vishal Dadlani,Anushka Manchanda

Composed by Sachin-Jigar, this track gives an energetic opening to the album. The number begins with electronic flute loops and some Punjabi sounds. The blend of Western and desi beats gives a new flavor to this party number. But it sounds all too familiar and we get used to the tediousness emanated by this number. Hope it gets better with Emraan Hashmi and Shraddha Kapoor shaking a leg to it.

2.Pakeezah-Gulraj Singh

A sunny number that is easy on the ears and makes for a good listen when you are in one of your lovey-dovey moods. The guitar strums and the repetitive 'Pakeezah' are instantly addictive. And in addition to all these, there is Gulraj Singh who excels with many dimensions of his rendition. A melting song that would surely win a place in your heart. Sure-shot winner!

3.Aadarniya Ungli-Vishal Dadlani,Neeti Mohan

A fast paced adrenaline rush number that doesn't make our hormones thump to it. It fails to impress right from the word 'go'. Even Vishal Dadlani and Neeti Mohan can't save the song from ending up as a disaster. Though Gulraj Singh made an impressive composition with the previous number, he falls down in to the alley with this one!

4.Auliya-Armaan Malik

Salim-Sulaiman compose this soft spiritual number that is sweet and melodious. But the melody gets derailed as it progresses. Wish it could have been composed even more firmly. The slight piano notes and the mild chorus provide relief in this otherwise average number. Armaan Malik strives to make the track look good with his singing and he manages to win only up to some extent.

5.Ungli Pe Nachalein-Dev Negi,Shipra Ghoyal

Well, I wonder what's this? Is this an already heard number? Or is it a freshly composed one for Ungli? Aslam Keyi has been roped in to compose the promotional song of this movie and he couldn't even do a single bit of justice. Dev Negi and Shipra Ghoyal sound miserable and the overall beats of the number is depressing! Need I say more?

Verdict:

Though Ungli boasts of three composers, it falls short of expectations of many. Maybe director Rensil D'Silva needed such mundane numbers for his movie to make it look commercial!

Rating: **

Picks:

Pakeezah

 

 

Ormayundo Ee Mukham Music Review

Movie: Ormayundo Ee Mukham

Cast: Vineeth Srinivasan,Namitha Pramod

Director: Anvar Sadik

Music director: Shaan Rahman

 

Ormayundo Ee Mukham is a 2014 musical romantic Malayalam movie directed by Anvar Sadik, starring Vineeth Srinivasan and Namitha Pramod. I heard a lot of positive speculation about the songs. So this is my first music review on a Malayalam film.

1.Aaromale-Shaan Rahman

It is a happy-go-lucky number that portrays the carefree nature of the lead role. The colorful guitar strums bring out the joyous mood of the song. Shaan Rahman croons the number with ease and he is backed up by wonderful orchestration. Starts on a happy note!

2.Chayunnuvo-Shaan Rahman

Being the composer of the album, Shaan Rahman gets to exhibit his skills once again in this typical medium paced number. Though it starts off well with the guitar and some awesome singing by Rahman, it gets tedious as it progresses and fails to impress. Shaan could have made his voice win over the orchestration. It ends up as a blaring track.

3.Doore Doore (M)-Vineeth Srinivasan

Doore Doore begins as a dreamy number that turns even more breezy with Vineeth Srinivasan behind the mike. The minimal orchestration works in the favor of the song as it oozes with melody. Accompanied by slight guitar strums, this track makes for a short tea-time listen. Sweet!

4.Doore Doore (F)-Rinu Razak

An unplugged version of the previous song by Rinu Razak is pleasant to the ears. Shaan brings out the best from Rinu as it is only her voice that stands out accompanied by slight piano notes. It is even more mellifluous than the original and sweeter than any other numbers in the album. Beautiful one!

5.Ee Mizhikalin-Vineeth Srinivasan,Mridula Nair

Shaan never runs out of melodies as he delivers yet another passionate duet that has simple touches of classical music. And it seems that only Vineeth Srinivasan could have done justice to this song. Mridula renders well with her honey-dipping voice. The muted violin and the string sections play a perfect role in this classy number. Chartbuster!

6.Payye Payye-K.S.Harishanker

And here comes my personal favorite. The reason why I term this number like that is it has a Rahman-ish feel and it is more like listening to an out & out Rahman number. The tabla is the predominant instrument used throughout the song which makes this track a unique one. But the real highlight is the flute sections in the interludes. The flautist must be appreciated for his awesome show. The sitar too is used well though its appearance is brief. K.S.Harishanker performs with elan. A bright ending!

Verdict:

Ormayundo Ee Mukham is a musical album that contains melodies predominantly. Except for one track, the other songs will surely linger for a long time in the listener's hearts. Shaan Rahman churns out yet another winner!

Rating: ****

Picks:

Doore Doore (both versions),Payye Payye,Ee Mizhkalin

Happy Ending Music Review

Movie: Happy Ending

Cast: Saif Ali Khan,Ileana D'Cruz,Govindha,Kalki Koechlin

Director: Raj Nidimoru and Krishna DK

Music director: Sachin-Jigar

 

Happy Ending is a 2014 romantic comedy which released on November 21. It has Saif Ali Khan,Govindha,Ileana D'Cruz and Kalki Koechlin in the lead roles. Music is composed by Sachin-Jigar who are on the top notch nowadays.

1.Mileya Mileya-Jigar Saraiya,Rekha Bharadwaj,Priya Andrews

The album opens with a breezy love ballad that is high on the melody quotient. The composition is classy and with Jigar Saraiya yielding the megaphone, it gets even better. Rekha Bharadwaj's effervescent rendition is honey to the ears and Priya Andrews does a commendable job. The number will instantly make you fall in love with it. The instruments violin and guitar are used well. Mellifluous!

2.Paaji Tussi Such A Pussy Cat-Amitabh Bhattacharya

A quirky song that will bring a smile on the lips with the very first listen. The nursery rhyme like composition is abundantly funny and the visuals will make it even more enjoyable. The rhythm change in the second stanza gives a R&B touch to the number for a few moments. The repetitive 'Paaji Tussi Such A Pussy Cat' is addictive and the opera ending changes the track into a versatile one. Amitabh's easygoing rendition is pleasant to hear. Chartbuster!

3.Jaise Mera Tu-Arijit Singh,Priya Saraiya

This one is a charming romantic duet that is sure to find a place in the charts. Though it's a remake of Meher Meher number from Raj & DK's Telugu film D for DOPIDI, it carries a whip of freshness all over. Arijit Singh handles the song well with his endearing voice and Jigar's wife Priya Saraiya captivates us with her flawless singing. Another winner!

4.G Phaad Ke-Divya Kumar,Shefali Alvares

A party number which will make its way to the dance floors. It has a controversial touch to it with its lyrics. But brushing it aside, it is a rocking track that integrates all the elements to end up as a dance song. Divya Kumar and Shefali Alvares are excellent in bringing out the right mood of this celebration number.

5.Khamma Ghani-Papon,Smiti Jain,Vidhi Mehta

I think Sachin-Jigar will never run out of melodies as it is becoming their trademark to churn out memorable songs (remember Jeene laga hoon and Gulabi?). Khamma Ghani is a Rajasthani greeting which is effectively used in this gusty number. Papon sounds like an evergreen singer while Smiti and Vidhi complement him well. The string sections work out well in favor of the song and brings out its richness.

6.Haseena Tu Kameena Main-Siddharth Basrur,Rahul Pandey,Shruthi Pathak

The soundtrack gets its final number which is a flirtatious one. The occasional whistle sounds make it a peppy listen and the saxophone blends with the track perfectly. Shruthi Pathak yields the megaphone with ease as her voice flows freely in addition to Siddharth's nearly ideal singing. Gives a delightful end to the album!

Verdict:

The album of Happy Ending is a breezy one that is sure to strike a chord with hardcore romantics. Sachin-Jigar move a notch higher with this soundtrack and their melodies are innovative & engaging.

Rating: ****

Picks:

Mileya Mileya,Paaji Tussi Such A Pussy Cat,Jaise Mera Tu,Khamma Ghani

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