Komban Music Review

Movie: Komban

Cast: Karthi,Lakshmi Menon

Director: Muthaiya

Music director: G.V.Prakash

1.Kambikara Vetti-Ananthu,V.M.Mahalingam

The album kickstarts with a lively folk number that perfectly blends with the theme of the movie. The nadaswaram in the interludes provide the eternal rustic feel of the song. The lyrics speak about the lead character of the movie and they are powerful. Though we have heard songs like this previously, coming from G.V.Prakash is something to look out for.

2.Appappa-G.V.Prakash,Shreya Ghoshal

G.V.Prakash moves on to compose a lilting rustic melody in his unique style. This number serves as a perfect love ballad for a serene walk in the village soil. G.V.Prakash's amorous rendition and Shreya Ghoshal's sweet voice complement each other very well. The interludes are filled with mellowed flute and ghatam sections which make this song an endearing one.

3.Karuppu Nerathazhagi-Velmurugan,Maalavika Sundar

Here comes the highlight of the album. The major attraction of this number is its upbeat rhythm laced with nadaswaram at a few places. The guitar strums and the persistent melody streak deserve a special applause in this impressive number. Velmurugan's energetic rendition is what makes this song a enjoyable one and Maalavika's humming in the interludes is the icing on the cake. Wonderful!

4.Mella Valanjadhu-Madhu Balakrishnan

It's refreshing to listen to Madhu Balakrishnan after a long time in this laidback melody. This number has G.V.Prakash's stamp all over it. The lyrics are emotional and the breezy beats are an added advantage. The violin in the second interlude is the highlight of this song. It has been a long time since we have listened to family numbers and this one serves as a chicken soup to the listener's soul!

5.A Celebration-Theme

The album arrives to its finale with this grand theme which paints festivity all over. What makes us to skip this theme is that it is nothing new and it's just an instrumental version of Kambikara Vetti.

Verdict:

After a few unimpressive urban soundtracks, G.V.Prakash comes up with a feel good rural album. A couple of songs take this soundtrack to a higher level.

Rating: ***

Picks:

Karuppu Nerathazhagi,Mella Valanjadhu

Top 10 Kollywood albums of 2014

Kollywood is currently brimming with innovative composers and the year 2014 was no exception. Let's take a look at some of finest albums of last year.

10.Velaiyilla Pattathari- Anirudh Ravichander

This album worked out well in terms of creativity (Amma Amma,Po Indru Neeyaga) as well as in terms of commercial appeal (Udhungada Sangu,What a Karavad). But compared to other albums of Anirudh, this one was two notches lower except for the couple of melodious songs.

9.Jeeva-D.Imman

Two songs in this album (Ovondrai Thirudugirai and Oruthi Mele) brought laurels to the entire soundtrack. Though the other songs were good, they went unnoticed due to the average performance of the film.

8.Kochadaiyaan-A.R.Rahman

Though the songs took time to grow on the listeners, it contained rich classically influenced numbers. Idhayam,Manapennin Sathiyam,Medhuvagathaan and Enge Pogudho Vaanam were evergreen gems delivered by the Mozart of Madras.

7.Kayal-D.Imman

Imman stated that the songs in this album will be listened during serene nights. True to his word, songs like Unna Ippo Paakanum,Yen Aala Paakaporen and Yengirundhu Vandhaayo served as beautiful melodies.

6.Kaththi-Anirudh Ravichander

Though commercial, the reason why this album made its way into this list was that I really enjoyed all the songs. Especially Aathi Enna Nee,Paalam and Yaar Petra Magano were instantly addictive.

5.Thegidi-Nivas Prasanna Krishnamoorthy

Debutante composer Nivas Prasanna Krishnamoorthy weaved magic with this awesome soundtrack. The romantic duet Vinmeen Vithaiyil is still a rage among youngsters and other songs like Yaar Ezhudhiyadho,Kangalai and Neeyum Dhinam were critically acclaimed.

4.Kaaviya Thalaivan-A.R.Rahman

Our Isaipuyal got to work on a fabulous soundtrack that contained some musically rich numbers like Aye Mr.Minor,Yaarumilla,Sandi Kuthirai,Vanga Makka Vanga and Sollividu Sollividu. The songs were classical and artistic.

3.Rummy-D.Imman

The album consisted of only 4 songs (Koodamela Koodavechi,Adiye Enna Raagam,Oru Nodi and Yethukaaga Enna Neeyum) and each one oozed with melody. This soundtrack is one such that will always remain in the playlist of the listeners.

2.Amara Kaaviyam-M.Ghibran

If you haven't listened to this album yet, you must. I swear that you will love the songs instantly. The reason why this soundtrack went underrated was the movie didn't perform well nor did it have proper promotions. But songs like Yedhedho Ennam Vandhu,Deva Devadhai,Mounam Pesum,Dhagam Theera and Saridhaana were widely appreciated by pure music lovers and critics.

1.Thirumanam Ennum Nikkah-M.Ghibran

I must say that Ghibran is the most innovative and experimental composer of recent times. But he doesn't receive the needed recognition due to his choice of films. Just give a listen to this album and I am sure that you will want to hit the repeat button again & again. The semi-classical Kannukul Pothivaipen, the beautiful melodious & addictive duet Enthaara Enthaara, the foot-tapping Rayile Ra, the perfect romantic Sufi song Chillendra Chillendra and the heartwarming Yaaro Ival are must listens if you want to dwell in the peacefulness of good music. Trust me, Ghibran is the next Rahman!

Top 10 Bollywood albums of 2014

Bollywood had some memorable albums in 2014. Multi composer soundtracks became a trend. But amidst the n number of albums, only a few stood out as gems. Here are the top ten albums of 2014:

10.Kick-Himesh Reshmaiyya

Himesh Reshmaiyya emerged as a winner with this top selling album in 2014. Though I felt it was run-of-the-mill kind, a couple of songs like Hangover and Tu Hi Tu were melodious and I liked them. Jumme Ki Raat was one of the rocking songs of the year.

9.Raja Natwarlal-Yuvan Shankar Raja

Tamil composer Yuvan Shankar Raja's debut Hindi soundtrack had his trademark stamp on it. Tere Hoke Rehengay ruled the charts for a long time while the Sufi track Kabhi Ruhani Kabhi Rumani was widely appreciated. The other songs were also chartbusters.

8.2 States-SEL

Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy won the Best Music Director for this album in the 60th Filmfare Awards. This soundtrack was an enjoyable one as a complete album. My picks are Mast Magan,Chaandaniya,Locha-E-Ulfat and Offo.

7.Hasee Toh Phasee- Vishal-Shekar

Hasee Toh Phasee was a surprise album of the year. It was dominated by three scintillating melodies Zehnaseeb,Ishq Bulaava and Manchala. All of them went on to become chartbusters along with the popular Punjabi Wedding Song.

6.PK- Ajay-Atul,Shantanu Moitra,Ankit Tiwari

Multi composer soundtrack PK was one of the widely appreciated albums of 2014. The album consisted of gems like Chaar Kadam,Love Is Waste Of Time,Tharki Chokro and Bhagwan Hai Kahan Re Tu.

5.Happy Ending- Sachin-Jigar

Critically acclaimed composers Sachin and Jigar created yet another beautiful album. Versatility is the word which can be used to describe this soundtrack. The scintillating numbers were Jaise Mera Tu,Khamma Gani and Mileya Mileya while the foot-tapping ones were Paaji Tussi Such A Pussy Cat and G Phaad Ke.

4.Haider-Vishal Bharadwaj

Though underrated, this soundtrack was for the ones who loved true unadulterated music. Some classic of this album were Aao Na,Bismil,Khul Kabhi,Ek Aur Bismi,Do Jahaan,Aaj Ke Naam and Jhelum. A very innovative soundtrack it was.

3.Queen-Amit Trivedi

Queen's soundtrack was one such that spelled liberation all over. Amit Trivedi is touted to be one of the exciting composers in Bollywood. And he completely proved it with this album. London Thumkda,Jugni,Harjaiyaan,Badra Bahaar and Taake Jhanke were all chartbusters.

2.Highway-A.R.Rahman

One of the finest works of Rahman till date. Each and every song in this album was addictive and haunting. They were also versatile. Be it the fast paced Patakha Guddi (both versions), the melodious Kahaan Hoon Main,Sooha Saaha and Heera, the spiritual Tu Kuja, the tranquil Maahi Ve  and the stylish Wanna Mash Up.

1.Ek Villain-Mithoon,Ankit Tiwari,Soch (Band)

Awari is the topmost favorite song of mine. It just pulls at my heartstrings every time I listen to it. It is composed by Pakistani band Soch. And also Banjaara,Galliyan (both versions),Zaroorat and Humdard are also scintillating and addictive. The perfect album of the year!

Uttama Villain Music Review

Movie: Uttama Villain

Cast: Kamal Hassan,Pooja Kumar,Andrea Jeremiah

Director: Ramesh Arvind

Music director: M.Ghibran

1.Loveaa Loveaa-Kamal Hassan,Sharanya Gopinath,Anitha Nivas

An energetic beginning to the most anticipated album of 2015. Ghibran experiments with various shades of genres in this fast paced romantic number. The 'loveaa loveaa' line is addictive and the blaring rhythm is perfectly woven into the song. The instruments in the interludes are coming of age. The contemporary style of the number makes it for repeated listens. Kamal Hassan brings out the emotions with his unique voice and Sharanya Gopinath spells magic with her modulation. Rocking start!

2.Kadhalaam Kadavul Mun-Padmalatha

Up next is a beautiful Hindustani classical number that will surely be liked by all true music lovers. The song sways in a passionate mood and Padmalatha (Ghibran's favorite) turns the number into a memorable classic. It might probably serve as a dance number in the 8th century section of the movie. Divine instruments used for the interludes and rhythm deliver a spiritual tone to the song. Highlight of the album!

3.Uttaman Introduction-Subhu Arumugam,Kamal Hassan

A traditional Villupaatu makes its way into the album. It is foot-tapping and magnificent all the way. Kamal Hassan's rendition and the supporting chorus are so perfect in this three minute number. Ghibran changes the rhythm of the song for a moment which is the icing on the cake. A perfect introduction for Uttaman!

4.Saagavaram-Kamal Hassan,Yazin Nizar,Ranjith Iyyappan,Ghibran

And finally there comes a tranquil number that sounds Rahmanish. Ghibran brings in his trademark beats and weaves a wonderful track. The sword clashes, chenda melam and the kombu instruments are engaged in this number which provides it a traditional feel. The lyrics speak about immortality and how it is sorrowful to human beings. A contemporary number!

5.Iraniyan Naadagam-Kamal Hassan,Rukmini Ashok Kumar

This song narrates the very familiar story of Hiranyakashipu. The template of the number is composed as a drama play and Kamal Hassan's narration of the story is energetic. It conveys the required emotion and the complementing female counterpart provides a soothing tone to the number. The chant 'Mrithyunjay Ho' is exquisite in the entire number. Though the song might be liked by a few, it is hard for the casual listeners to connect with it.

6.Mutharasan Kadhai-Yazin Nizar,Ranjith Iyyappan,Padmalatha

Yet another Villupaatu which narrates a different story. Ghibran composes this number with usual elements of a stage play and he plays with the exotic instruments of the bygone era. The fusion of western and traditional Indian music paints a beautiful picture in this number. The symphonic orchestration in the prelude is haunting and gives you goosebumps. A one stop bazaar for all kinds of music.

7.Uttaman Kadhai-M.S.Bhaskar,Yazin Nizar,Ranjith Iyyappan

The final story of Uttaman is a haunting composition laden with traditional instruments and spiritual chants. The Carnatic raga touches deserve a special applause. The entire mood of the song is enchanting and it's like listening to a Rahman's composition. But like the previous ones, this one too will take time to catch up with casual listeners.

8.Uttama Villain Theme-Instrumental

A perfect theme for the entire movie. The chorus and the chant of 'Mrithyunjay' and 'Uttama Villain' will linger for a long time in the minds of the listeners.

9.Guru & Sishya-Instrumental

A soothing lullaby-like theme that is perfectly blended with symphony and tender piano notes. Mindblowing!

10.Father & Daughter-Instrumental

This theme spells sorrow all over. It makes for a beautiful listen when one is sad. The awesome string section makes this theme a grand one.

11.Uttaman & Karpagavalli-Instrumental

This theme will probably be played during romantic scenes between the lead characters. A sweet and cute theme with lilting piano notes.

12.Father & Son-Instrumental

Beginning with mellowed piano notes, this theme works its way towards graciousness. One can melt in the melody of this theme. The female humming and the enthralling 'Mrithyunjay Ho' will prompt us to hit the repeat button.

13.Letter From & To Yamini-Instrumental

Ghibran proves his mettle as an innovative composer with this theme. The mild beats in the background makes it a perfect theme. The violin is the strongest point.

14.Dr.Arpana-Instrumental

The final theme is splendid despite having shades of the previous themes. A beautiful ending.

Verdict:

Uttama Villain is one such soundtrack that will remain as a cult classic among music lovers. Though it hasn't got any commercial numbers, Ghibran's hardwork has paid off very well. He is the next Rahman on the line!

Rating: ****

Picks:

Loveaa Loveaa,Kadhalaam Kadavul Mun,Uttaman Introduction,Saagavaram,Guru & Sishya,Father & Son

Pencil Music Review

Movie: Pencil

Cast: G.V.Prakash,Sri Divya

Director: Mani Nagaraj

Music director: G.V.Prakash

 

 

1.Kangalilae-Javed Ali,Shreya Ghoshal

A beautiful opener for this youth friendly album. Javed Ali and Shreya Ghoshal team up for the first time in this lovable romantic ballad. The melody flows with ease and the rhythm of the number takes you into a trance. G.V.Prakash excels with his simple arrangement  and with a tune that is instantly likeable. Pick of the album!

2.Led Kannala-Hariharasudhan,Maalavika Sundar

This soft kuthu number is much on the lines of Hey Baby from Raja Rani (remember hey paapa hey soku paapa). It also resembles some kuthu numbers from the early 2000s like Kannama kannama, Kalyanamdhan kattikitu and Kokku meena thingumma. Though nothing new has been tried over here, this song can appeal to a few youngsters. Super Singer contestants Hariharasudhan and Maalavika do a commendable job. The tune is rather bland and you won't opt for a repeated listen.

3.Why Machi Why-Tipu,V.Shrihari

God! Can someone help the Kollywood music industry to get rid of such songs? We have already heard too many intro numbers for school boys right from the 80s. Some were exceptionally good and some fell into the peppy genre. But this song falls a way too much into a stereotyped pit. At one point the song gets so boring that you can skip it! (If you want to listen to a different type of school boys intro number, give a try to Saridhaana from Amara Kaaviyam).

4.Yaarai Pola Illa Neeyum-G.V.Prakash

Beginning with poetic lyrics, this fast paced number solely depends on G.V.Prakash's effervescent rendition. And even this number gets stereotyped. It's like listening to Mazhai pozhiyum, Chillena oru mazhaithuli and Sattena idi mazhai. Thank god, there is no 'mazhai' word over here. But the song is sure to get into the charts for its rocking appeal. Maybe hardcore fans of G.V.Prakash can laud for this ordinary track.

5.Yaarai Pola Illa Neeyum (Reprise EDM Mix)-G.V.Prakash

It's blaring and also boring. The vocals of the number get bogged down with the overloaded EDM music. Though there are many innovative EDM mixes in the recent times, this song doesn't appeal like the others. Go for the skip button!

Verdict:

I just cannot make out why G.V.Prakash doesn't think out of the box. Being A.R.Rahman's nephew, he has the capability to compose great music. But he cocoons himself with his templates that turn boring with each album of his. Wish the Veyil G.V.P returns soon!

Rating: *1/2

Picks:

Kangalilae

Valiyavan Music Review

Movie: Valiyavan

Cast: Jai,Andrea Jeremiah

Director: M.Saravanan

Music director: D.Imman

 

 

1.Aahaa Kathal Vandu-KG Ranjith

The opening track is a beautiful love melody rendered in the magical voice of KG Ranjith. His voice plays with the tune effortlessly which makes this number an endearing one. And also this scintillating song has been composed on my favorite raga Keeravani (western harmonic minor scale). The tinkling bells in the prelude, quirky trumpet and rich violin in the interludes display Imman's magic of weaving awesome orchestration. Perfect start! 

2.Hello Hello-Papon

This funky number is enjoyable at the beginning when Papon starts in a drunken voice modulation. The dog barks, guitar strums and the rhythm are tailor-made for this track. But the number soon loses steam from the charanam and turns boring after that. It seems that Imman isn't comfortable with composing such numbers. He struggles with the orchestration in the charanams especially. Jarring and unimpressive on the whole.

3.Yelomia-Sunidhi Chauhan

Here comes the ultimate masterpiece of the album. Composed in a laidback manner, this soothing melody is scintillating and makes for a lovely listen on mushy evenings. Sunidhi Chauhan's voice can't get sweeter any more. Though it might have been difficult to croon for this soft number, she does a fabulous job by employing a passionate tone. The accompanying trumpet and guitar strums are elegantly tuned by Imman. Lilting track!

4.Kathal Nallavana-Singdha Chandra,Elfe

Right from the beginning of this track, we might wonder where is it leading us to. There is too much unpleasantness to the tune that it is mundane and jarring on the ears. Imman has tried composing a high level international fusion but fails miserably with a mediocre tune. Though the vocals of Singdha Chandra and Elfe are powerful, they don't leave an impact on us.

5.Eyes On You-Theme

A pulsating theme track from Imman is quiet a surprise. There is so much energy to this tune that one cannot help notice the electronic guitar playing its way through the track. Though short, it would provide as a great background score for the movie.

6.O Baby Come With Me-D.Imman,MLR Karthikeyan

Beginning with funny sounds, this alternative rock is sure to be a hit among urban youth. A global tone sweeps through the entire song and it's like listening to one of the English songs. But the song turns very creative with the fusion of Carnatic instruments and aalaps in the interludes. Listening to the mandolin and sitar provides as a much needed refreshment to the song. D.Imman and MLR Karthikeyan excel in the vocal part. Rocking end!

Verdict:

Though Imman finds difficulty in composing for a modern genre, he pulls it with a few good numbers that stand out in the album.

Rating: **1/2

Picks:

Aahaa Kathal Vandu,Yelomia,O Baby Come With Me