Sanam Re Music Review

Movie: Sanam Re

Cast: Pulkit Samrat,Yami Gautam,Urvashi Rautela

Director: Divya Khosla Kumar

Music director: Mithoon,Jeet Ganguly,Amaal Malik,Epic Bhangra

1.Sanam Re-Arijit Singh,Anirudh Bhola

When the very first song in an album strikes your heart with its melodious dimension, you can really expect the rest of the soundtrack to be exceptionally good. Sanam Re puts you in the mood for a mushy romance with your loved one on a lovey-dovey winter evening. Arijit Singh's voice flows like honey and the backing vocals by Anirudh Bhola adds beauty to the number. The track has excellent instrumentation like the tabla beats and hard rock guitar section in the second interlude. Beautifully Mithoon-ish all the way! Definite chartbuster!

2.Gazab Ka Hai Ye Din-Arijit Singh

Amaal Malik dons the role of composer in this number. Right after a scintillating melody, this track has a sunny shade to it with its fun-filled tune pleasing to the ears. Arijit Singh's carefree singing makes the number even more enjoyable. The racy rhythm and the ebullient guitar strums paint a colorful mood to the entire song. A perfect listen for a long drive on a highway!

3.Hua Hain Aaj Pehli Baar-Amaal Malik,Armaan Malik,Palak Muchhal

Beginning with a lively strings section, this melodious number by Amaal Malik is instantly addictive from the very first listen. The steady rhythm pattern of the song gives a deja-vu of previous romantic duets in Bollywood, especially songs in the early 2000s. Amaal Malik ropes in his brother Armaan Malik to croon this number and he does complete justice to the tune. Palak Muchhal's modulated singing is refreshing to listen. Simple yet elegant!

4.Humne Pee Rakhi Hai-Jaz Dhami,Neha Kakkar,Ikka Singh

When the album is riding high on soul-stirring melodies, here comes a funky party number composed by Epic Bhangra. The song has all the elements of an outright chartbuster. Be it the repetitive loops, high voltage techno beats or the sultry vocals of Jaz Dhami, Neha Kakkar and Ikka Singh, this track is sure to pull people to the dance floor. 

5.Kya Tujhe Ab Ye Dil Bataye-Falak Shabir

Amaal Malik gets to compose yet another heartrending melody. Lyrics by Manoj Muntashir are top class here. The entire song has an old-school melody feel to it with the orchestration and the trance-like beats resembling songs from a bygone era. Falak Shabir's mellowed rendition makes the number a classic in all terms. An evergreen soft rock melody!

6.Tere Liye-Mithoon,Ankit Tiwari

Mithoon pairs up with composer-singer Ankit Tiwari for this song. This number is a downright pathos that would definitely suit the lovelorn guys out there. The slow pace of the number is the only drawback here. Otherwise Mithoon composes a soulful tune and spices it up with mellowed violins and of course Ankit Tiwari's vocals. He too croons certain lines which deserve an applause.

7.Tum Bin-Shreya Ghoshal

Tum Bin Jiya Jaaye Kaise from Tum Bin by Nikhil-Vinay gets a rehash in this album. This version is composed by Jeet Ganguly who teams up with the evergreen Shreya Ghoshal whose honey-dipping voice makes the number oh-so mushy. Being a male vocals dominated album, this song provides a sense of relief to the listeners. Shreya's gamakas provide a slight classical touch to the tune. Kudos to Jeet Ganguly for a ghazal gem!

8.Chhote Chhote Tamashe-Shaan

The soundtrack arrives to a grand finale with this fun-filled number. Jeet Ganguly takes you on a retro tour with this 60s-like song. Shaan's exuberant vocals peps up the playfulness of the track. Jeet Ganguly indulges some violins in the interlude which increases the happy mood of the song. If you want to listen to an upbeat number to spruce up your dull mood, then go for this one!

Verdict:

Though Sanam Re is replete with heartwarming melodies, it also has a party track and a couple of fun-filled numbers to cater to every mood of yours. The year 2016 gets yet another wonderful soundtrack!

Rating: ****

Picks:

Sanam Re,Gazab Ka Hai Yeh Din,Hum Hain Aaj Pehli Baar,Kya Tujhe Ab Ye Dil Bataye,Tum Bin,Chhote Chhote Tamashe

Airlift Music Review

Movie: Airlift

Cast: Akshay Kumar,Nimrat Kaur

Director: Raja Krishna Menon

Music director: Amaal Malik,Ankit Tiwari

1.Soch Na Sake-Arijit Singh,Tulsi Kumar,Amaal Malik

Soch Na Sake is a lilting melody in the brilliant voices of Arijit Singh and Tulsi Kumar. The singers render a beautiful aura to the mellifluous tune with their honey-dipping voices. Amaal Malik weaves a composition that is sure to melt the hearts of the listeners and become an instant hit. This adaptation of Hardy Sandhu's Soch will be on your playlists for a long time!

2.Dil Cheez Tujhe Dedi-Ankit Tiwari,Arijit Singh

The album veers off to a dance number that is instantly addictive right from the beginning. Ankit Tiwari composes this track which sees the use of Arabic instruments and words in the lyrics. The catchy phrase 'Dedi Dedi' is sure to get on to your nerves after a few listens. Arijit Singh's voice for this song suits aptly and he makes the number more enjoyable. Chartbuster!

3.Mera Nachan Nu-Brijesh Sandhilya,Divya Kumar,Amaal Malik

A foot-tapping Punjabi track is up next. Divya Kumar lends soul to the number with his flawless singing while Brijesh Sandhilya and Amaal Malik complement him well. Though the song has traces of previous Punjabi numbers in Bollywood, it is still engaging with the free-flowing tune and upbeat rhythm pattern. Let the celebration begin!

4.Tu Bhoola Jise-K.K

Patriotic beats and orchestration in this number welcome the listeners in a grand manner. But soon the melodious progression of the song takes over, with K.K crooning the lines soulfully. Though the number is a situational one, it is sure to be a tear-jerker, when played on the screens.

5.Soch Na Sake (Solo Version)-Arijit Singh

This version of Soch Na Sake is a direct rip off from the original one. There is no changeover in this version and you get to listen the same Arijit Singh crooning the lines with passion. However, it is a bliss to listen to this heartmelting melody once again in the soundtrack.

Verdict:

Though the movie has a serious tone to it, it is musically rich with the numbers turning out to be chartbusters. Kudos to Amaal Malik and Ankit Tiwari!

Rating: ***3/4

Picks:

Soch Na Sake,Dil Cheez Tujhe Badi,Mera Nachan Nu

12 songs of Harris Jayaraj that are classically rich

Harris Jayaraj! When you hear his name, it is the happy and feel-good numbers that come to your mind. His melodies are heartwarming, his western numbers are a rage among the youngsters and his folk songs cater to the commercial needs of the industry. As he celebrates his 41st birthday tomorrow, I bring you 12 songs of his that have a rich classical touch to them.

12.Aazhiyile (Dhaam Dhoom)

This short number sung by Haricharan is one of the best love numbers that has a tinge of classical to it. The free-flowing steady rhythm is the icing on the cake!

11.Unakenna Venum Sollu (Yennai Arindhaal)
Though this song isn't a complete classical one, the gamakas by Mahathi, added to the honey-dipping voice of Benny Dayal, provide a classical aura to it.

10.Mun Andhi (7am Arivu)
Even this number doesn't fall into the category of being a pure classical song. But Karthik's rendition of lines in the charanams are a bliss to the ears of classical music lovers.

9.Ragasiya Kanavugal (Bheema)
This song has touches of Hindustani classical music to it. The folkish rhythm is the specialty of this number which is sung by Hariharan and Madhushree.

8.Anbe Anbe (Ithu Kathirvelan Kadhal)
In the evergreen voices of Harish Ragavendra and Harini, this romantic song has an exquisite touch of classical to it.

7.Nenjil Nenjil (Engeyum Kadhal)
Based on the Charukesi raaga, this sweet love number is replete with gamakas and tabla beats. Added to the pleasant tune is the heavenly vocals of Harish Ragavendra and Chinmayi Sripada.

6.Ithuthaana Ithuthaana (Saamy)
This classical number in the vintage voice of K.S.Chitra has been the dream song of every girl. It's still fresh when listened to.

5.Annul Mele (Vaaranam Aayiram)
In the soothing vocals of Carnatic singer Sudha Raghunathan, this pleasing number makes for a peaceful listen on a serene night.

4.Kumari (Anniyan)
This is the pucca classical song that has the tinge of a Tamil Brahmin touch to it. Only Shankar Mahadevan can croon such beautiful numbers.

3.En Kaadhal Thee (Irandaam Ulagam)
S.P.Balasubramaniam's evergreen voice, an upbeat rhythm, usage of classical instruments and a traditional chorus. What more can you ask for in a semi-classical number?

2.Oorellaam Unnai Kandu (Nanbenda)
This number from 2015 is one of the classically rich love songs that Kollywood has seen in recent times. Two eminent classical singers Unni Krishnan and Bombay Jayashree have sung this one.

1.Iyengaaru Veetu (Anniyan)
The best ever classical song composed by Harris! Legendary singers Hariharan and Harini have rendered this beautiful number.

Happy Birthday Harris Jayaraj! Long Live!

Jil Jung Juk Music Review

Movie: Jil Jung Juk

Cast: Siddharth,Avinash Raghudevan,Sananth Reddy

Director: Deeraj Vaidy

Music director: Vishal Chandrashekhar

1.Shoot The Kuruvi-Anirudh Ravichander,Datho Radha Ravi,Siddharth

A scintillating melody by Vishal Chandrashekhar opens this album. But mind it, this is no ordinary melody song that you might expect. It comes with a twist. It's a soup song, replete with quirky lyrics, sans the commercial element or kuthu beats. The mellowed repetitive rhythm, minimal instrumentation, Anirudh's velvety voice and Radha Ravi & Siddharth's musings make this number an instant winner. If you are in the mood to listen to a different number, go for this!

2.Domer U Lord U-Anthony Daasan,Kavitha Thomas

This one is a funky number that is filled with a plethora of funny words, digital sequencing and western instruments. The racy rhythm is foot-tapping and peps up the enjoyable mood of the song. Anthony Daasan and Kavitha Thomas put in their best with their powerhouse rendition. Makes for a good one-time listen.

3.Red Road U-Santhosh Narayanan,Sean Roldan,Vishal Chandrashekhar

Vishal Chandrashekhar takes you on a retro journey with this carefree number. The song has touches of the 60s pop beats and disco loops. Santhosh Narayanan's nasal singing is the icing on the cake while Sean Roldan and Vishal complement him well. The accompaniment of electric violins in the background is an innovative thought by the composer. Utterly enjoyable!

4.Casanova-Andrea Jeremiah

Digital sequences, slow EDM progression and jazz rhythm adds a touch of modernity to this number. However, it is Andrea Jeremiah's seductive rendition that makes the number a sultry listen. Though the song is not instantly addictive, it might take a few repeated listens to get used to it.

Verdict:

This short soundtrack by Vishal Chandrashekhar is strictly situational with two numbers standing out from the rest.

Rating: ***

Picks:

Shoot The Kuruvi,Red Road U

Saala Khadoos Music Review

Movie: Saala Khadoos

Cast: R.Madhavan,Ritika Singh,Nassar,Radharavi

Director: Sudha Kongara

Music director: Santhosh Narayanan

1.Saala Khadoos-Vishal Dadlani

Santhosh Narayanan's signature guitar section in the prelude sets the stage for an energetic introduction song. It is Vishal Dadlani's powerhouse singing along with the exuberant chorus that pushes the envelope in the tune. A perfect intro song for the lead!

2.Jhalli Patakha-Sunidhi Chauhan

Here comes a song that is more South Indian-ish in terms of the rhythm which has the ultimate kuthu beats. Other than the rhythm, there is nothing special tune-wise or the orchestration. It's just a passable number that can be enjoyed for Sunidhi Chauhan's sultry vocals.

3.Dil Ye Ladaku-Monali Thakur

A carefree melody is up next in the album. Monali Thakur's playful rendition amply supported by the soulful violins and the endearing flute sections makes this number a heartwarming listen. The surprise factor of the song is that it doesn't have any beats to form as the rhythm, expect the accompaniment of male vocals in a din din sound. Very experimental! Hit the repeat button!

4.Jagaa Khunnas-Vishal Dadlani,Vijaynarain Rangarajan

Vishal Dadlani once again gets to croon a power-packed track that has Santhosh Narayanan's stamp all over it. Be it the hard rock base, the guitar solo by guitarist Joseph Vijay or the supporting vocals by Vijaynarain Rangarajan, Santhosh composes an instant winner. This song will surely scorch the screens with its visuals.

5.Dhuaan Hai Dhuaan Zindagi-Kalyani Nair

Santhosh Narayanan ropes in his favorite Kalyani Nair to render this scintillating melody. Though it is her debut in Hindi, she comes out with flying colors with her sweet voice permeating the serene atmosphere of the tune. The chord progression, accompanied by mellowed piano notes is a bliss to listen to. Soul-stirring!

Verdict:

Only a few South Indian music composers can do complete justice in Bollywood. And now Santhosh Narayanan joins the bandwagon of A.R.Rahman and Ilaiyaraaja with this exhilarating debut. A very promising soundtrack!

Rating: ***1/2

Picks:

Saala Khadoos,Dil Ye Ladaku,Dhuaan Hai Dhuaan Zindagi

20 songs sung by A.R.Rahman that will melt your heart

Yay!!! It's A.R.Rahman's birthday. What else is more exciting on January 6th other than the Mozart's birthday? He is the synonym of God in terms of music. His compositions have been the companion in times of happiness as well as distress. His soul-stirring, path-breaking, scintillating, heartwarming and unconventional numbers have rocked the entire world. Right from Roja till Tamasha, A.R.Rahman has been adding new dimensions to music. Though he is the winner of the prestigious Oscar award, his humbleness is what makes him stand out from the rest. He has a song for every mood and feeling of yours. Just tune in to his songs, you'd know what it is to feel like being in heaven.

Well, I came across many posts like 13 unforgettable songs of Rahman, 30 underrated songs of Rahman you should listen right now and such and such. So I thought to travel the less taken route. Here I present 20 songs sung by Rahman that are melodious, experimental and inspirational.

20.Elay Keechan (Kadal)

Rahman modulates his effervescent vocals into a quirky one for this seaside number. This one is sure to make you feel happy on a sunny day!

19.Kya Hai Mohabbat (Ek Deewana Tha)
This number oozes with love from all its corners. The orchestral sounds that surround this number are its specialty.

18.Aise Na Dekho (Raanjhanaa)
This was the most underrated track of the album. But this number turned as one of the gems that were passionately crooned by Rahman himself.

17.Columbus Columbus (Jeans)
This fast-paced happy number formed as the dance sequence for every boy in the late 90s. And what's more, the topping on the cake was Rahman's vocals.

16.Tu Koi Aur Hai (Tamasha)
Rahman's effervescent rendition in this number is sure to pull you into a trance. If you are someone who likes dreamy numbers, then you should plug in to this one!

15.Ellapugazhum (Azhagiya Tamil Magan)
Want that motivation inside you? Want to feel inspired to achieve more? Just listen to this number in Rahman's energetic voice. Period.

14.Mental Manadhil (OK Kanmani)
The anthem of every youngster in 2015 was this number. This one was sooooo good only because of Rahman's pepped up rendition that was instantly addictive.

13.Khwaja Mere Khwaja (Jodhaa Akbar)
Spirituality was redefined with this number. If you are a Sufi music buff, you'd know how this number would have changed you into a better person with all its sacredness.

12.Anbe Aaruyire (Ah Aah)
The year 2005 had a song crooned by Rahman that was an instant hit with the youngsters. And it still feels fresh whenever it is played on the radio or TV.

11.Patakha Guddi (Highway)
How many of you know that there was a male version of Patakha Guddi in the movie Highway? Rahman's rendition will surely make you feel empowered. Just close your eyes and listen to it!

10.Tu Bole (Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na)
This number was a whiff of fragrance in 2008 when people weren't much accustomed to the use of jazz in Indian music. And it couldn't have been better without Rahman's vocals in it.

9.Urvasi Urvasi (Kadhalan)
Awwww!!! The dream song of every South Indian in the 90s. Rahman broke the barrier around him and rendered this number with elan. You'd still feel like dancing when you listen to this one.

8.Mustafa Mustafa (Kaadhal Desam)
This number still remains the anthem of friendship and it still is being played in every college farewell parties. Rahman's rendition is sure to move you to tears.

7.Ye Jo Des Hai Tera (Swades)
Every true patriot of this country would be able to relate to this number and every citizen who has moved out of India would want to come back by just listening to this song in the resplendent voice of Rahman!

6.Maahi Ve (Highway)
Wake up, tune in to this number and ka-boom! Your day will be completely filled with a feel-good emotion which you can never experience without Rahman's heartmelting vocals in this one.

5.Nenje Ezhu (Mariyaan)
This number speaks about the power of undying love. Rahman catered to the needs of every romantic with this motivational love song.

4.Vellai Pookal (Kannathil Muthamittal)
Let peace prevail in the world. That was the theme of this number. And Rahman's voice permeates through the serene aura that engulfs this song!

3.Rehna Tu (Delhi-6)
I just cannot get enough with this number. It just gets better and better with every listening. Though the number is a 7 year old one, it is still fresh and when Rahman croons 'Tujhe chahoon jaisa hai tu...' in his sultry vocals, it is pure bliss!

2.Newyork Nagaram (Sillunu Oru Kaadhal)
Then, what else? Should I say anything about this number? As fresh as ever, as heartmelting as ever and as heavenly as ever!

1.Iru Pookal/Dil Se Re (Uyire/Dil Se)
This number needs no explanation. Easily the best of the lot!

Long Live ARR! Many happy returns to you!!!