Maalai Nerathu Mayakkam Music Review

Movie: Maalai Nerathu Mayakkam

Cast: Balakrishna Kola,Wamiqa Gabbi

Director: Gitanjali Selvaraghavan

Music director: Amrit

1.Sarakka-Amrit

The album opens with a pucca gaana track which has an heard-before tune. At places, it sounds like the latter part of Hey Baby from Raja Rani movie due to the quirky lyrics on marriage. Despite the bland tune arrangement and repetitive beats, Amrit's voice is fun to listen. It might appeal to the front-benchers.

2.Mora Saiyya (Yeno Mounam)-Vijay Prakash,Shakthisree Gopalan

This trance-like melody is enchanting right from the beginning. Vijay Prakash's versatile voice perfectly syncs with the clapping sounds and bell sounds. Then begins a divine chorus chanting 'Mora Saiyya' which has some earthy guitar strums in the background. Shakthisree Gopalan's crystal-clear voice is pleasant on the ears. The scintillating sitar section in the second interlude adds beauty to the entire number. Exquisite lovey-dovey duet!

3.Mokka Piece-Benny Dayal

A hard rock number is up next in the soundtrack. With an overload of EDM elements, this number is sure to go down well with the urban category of youngsters. Benny Dayal's gravelly voice sounds well while the rhythm pattern is foot-tapping. But soon the song becomes monotonous with no changeover in the beats or the tune.

4.Maalai Nerathu Mayakkama-Amrit

Dulcet guitar strums begin this dreamy number which is in par with the theme of the movie. An overdose of passion and romance is evident in this number, with Amrit crooning in an heavenly manner. The accompanying piano notes make this track even more soft and soul-stirring. This is one such song where you can plug on your headphones, hold hands with your partner and travel through a 04.41 minute musical sojourn!

5.Ennodu-Amrit,Mili Nair

Amrit composes a peppy romantic number that has a tune inspired from many Bollywood songs. Mild guitar strums and speedy beats make this track enjoyable to listen to. Mili Nair excels with her fruity voice while Amrit adds cheesiness with his part taking a changeover to folk rhythm. However, the entire aura of the song reminds of a few songs from the 90s period.

6.Two Opposites-Theme

As soon as this instrumental begins, it reminds you of the BGM scores from Selvaraghavan's Irandam Ulagam movie. The comparison is agreeable since this movie is directed by his wife. Comparison apart, this theme is perfectly composed by Amrit, concentrating on the romantic angle. Endearing on the first listen!

7.The Return Of Love-Theme

Yet another love theme which has the title track blended along with it. But it is very short to interpret it completely.

Verdict:

Amrit delivers a commendable album for his debut attempt. It is a mixed bag where every listener has something to choose.

Rating: ***

Picks:

Mora Saiyya (Yeno Mounam),Maalai Nerathu Mayakkama,Two Opposites

Prem Ratan Dhan Payo Music Review

Movie: Prem Ratan Dhan Payo

Cast: Salman Khan,Sonam Kapoor,Neil Nitin Mukesh

Director: Sooraj R.Barjatya

Music director: Himesh Reshammiya

1.Prem Leela-Aman Trikha,Vineet Singh

The celebratory mood of the movie reflects on the very first track. With jubilant trumpets in the prelude, this number has energetic beats that will surely make you forget everything and dance to the tune. Though there is nothing new to brag about, Aman Trikha and Vineet Singh swipe up the ordinary tune to greater heights with their exuberant vocals. This song is sure to scorch the screens with some excellent dance moves from Salman Khan.

2.Prem Ratan Dhan Payo-Palak Muchhal

A strong flavor of the 90s hits you as soon as this track begins. Being the title track, this one excels in terms of the choice of singer and some amazing dhol beats that will make you tap your feet. Palak Muchhal adds an extra dollop of sweetness with her honey-dipping voice. The prelude sung by her is exquisite before the routine tune sets in. Amidst having an aura of 90s, Himesh Reshammiya introduces a few guitar strums in the second interlude. Melodious as well as enjoyable!

3.Jalte Diye-Harshdeep Kaur,Anweshaa,Vineet Singh,Shabab Sabri

This is probably the best song of the entire album. One cannot miss the haunting atmosphere which this song creates right from its beginning. The number begins like a ghazal with the melodious Harshdeep Kaur behind the mike. But the real show begins when Anweshaa takes over with her ever-sweet voice. The fact that she sounds like Shreya Ghoshal is an added advantage to her. Equally amazing is Vineet Singh's rendition who croons his lines with ease. It is difficult to find such semi-classically brilliant and rich numbers nowadays. Must-listen! Hit the repeat button!

4.Aaj Unse Milna Hai-Shaan

An overdose of 90s is evident in this number. Songs like this one have been prevalent in Sooraj Barjatya's movies for two decades. This song brings an Hum Aapke Hai Kaun feel along with it, especially due to the lovable lyrics and tune arrangement. It is refreshing to listen to Shaan after a long hiatus. He is the perfect choice for this emotional number. Might appeal to a few listeners. 

5.Jab Tum Chaho-Mohammed Irfan,Palak Muchhal,Darshan Raval

Himesh Reshammiya composes yet another peppy track and adds color to the festive mood of the album. Since it is mandatory to have as many songs in a Barjatya's movie, I hope that this number would appear as a filler to a family gathering where the lead pair get to romance secretly. Palak Muchhal sounds excellent while Mohammed Irfan does a commendable job. But I wonder why did the director opt for a repetitive 90s flavor in a modern traditional movie?

6.Halo Re-Aman Trikha

In this track, the focus is on Radha-Krishna's love story. Yet again it is a high on energy number, despite the beats being mellowed throughout. It is only Aman Trikha's rendition that stands out in the entire track. The ebullient chorus, dhol beats and the barely visible piano notes sound innovative, but soon it gets monotonous with the tune being repetitive. 

7.Tod Tadaiyya-Neeraj Sridhar,Neeti Mohan

After a few traditionally sounding songs, here comes a number that sounds a bit urban. But one cannot miss the old-school feel which Himesh Reshammiya delivers. This number is also a rehash of his Balma from Khiladi 786. Some of the notable moments from this track are the 'ouch' and 'haan' sounds and tabla beats. Neeraj Sridhar renders his part well while Neeti Mohan's screechy rendition seems out of place at times.

8.Bachpan Kahan-Himesh Reshammiya

A feel-good number is up next in the album. The simple tune which sounds like a kindergarten rhyme is what makes this song work. Furthermore, the brilliant orchestration, pleasant piano notes and Himesh Reshammiya mellifluous rendition weave magic throughout. This track brings back the good old days of 90s slow Indipop. Though this song might not go down well with a few listeners, the lullaby feel which it provides is something not to be missed!

9.Murli Ki Taanon Si-Shaan

Pathos version of happy numbers have always worked in the past. And so does it now too. Though this sad version of Aaj Unse Milna is dolefully short, Shaan peps up the tune with his effervescent voice.

10.Aaj Unse Kehna Hai-Palak Muchhal,Shaan,Aishwarya Majumdar

Aaj Unse Milna Hai returns with yet another version. This time the ground is open for the girls to croon and swoon. But this one is lot better than the original version with Palak and Aishwarya's lovely voices and the inclusion of Prem Ratan Dhan Payo towards the end. Though it is short, it's sweet!

Verdict:

Himesh Reshammiya delivers a pucca traditional album for Sooraj Barjatya. Though one might cringe about the 90s touch all over, it is what makes the soundtrack elegant and beautiful!

Rating: ***

Picks:

Prem Ratan Dhan Payo,Jalte Diye,Bachpan Kahan,Aaj Unse Kehna Hai

Ko 2 Music Review

Movie: Ko 2

Cast: Bobby Simhaa,Nikki Galrani,Prakash Raj

Director: Sarath

Music director: Leon James

1.Kohila-Leon James,Neeti Mohan

A trendy as well as a soothing duet opens this album in a jubilant manner. Lively piano section in the prelude and the innovative Sitar fusion in the first interlude are some of Leon James' unique touches. The combination of his silky voice and Neeti Mohan's effervescent vocals is a delight to listen. The repetitive 'Kohila' chant is addictive while the rhythm pattern hooks you on. Overall a warm melody to please your senses!

2.Vidaadha-Leon James,Vishal Dadlani

Leon James forays into the Jazz genre with this ultimately stylish number. If someone can do justice to the entire song, it is only Vishal Dadlani. His guttural singing is endearing while Leon James complements him well. The rhythm arrangement is a fusion of Jazz, desi beats and dubstep. Once again the composer experiments with the orchestration.

3.Kannamma-Inno Genga,Chinmayi

The prelude of this song sounds global with the amazing piano notes and English lyrics. While Inno Genga's modulated accent is excellent to listen, it might not go down well with a few listeners. The track turns into a racy one from the first interlude and then Chinmayi takes over with her evergreen voice. Though it might be difficult to get a connect with the number, the engaging beats and the trance-like atmosphere will make you to return to the track.

4.Unnai Maatrinaal-Harish Sivaramakrishnan,Sragam Choir

This song was released as a single and a tribute to late Dr.A.P.J.Abdul Kalam. After a few breezy listens, this number provides a refreshing change to the entire soundtrack. Harish Sivaramakrishnan sounds energetic with his powerful vocals while the Sragam Choir deliver the much needed classical touches to this inspirational number. The nadaswaram section in the prelude and interlude is an innovative thought by Leon James. Perfect track for this political thriller!

5.Kannamma (Reprise)-Salim Merchant

When it is a reprise number, the first thing that strikes your mind will be the piano notes. And this number is no exception. Beginning with scintillating piano notes, Salim Merchant takes you through a beautiful melodious journey. His Tamil pronunciation is flawless and it doesn't seem like his debut. This reprise version is peaceful, serene and better than the original version. Watch out for the brilliant violin solo in the interlude. Soul-stirring!

6.Ko 2 Theme-Instrumental

This short theme is an exuberant cacophony of instruments like Sitar, guitar strums and Hip-hop beats. It is addictive on the very first listen and will blend with the movie perfectly. 

Verdict:

Leon James is another promising composer to look out for in this industry. He experiments with different sounds and orchestration.

Rating: ***1/2

Picks:

Kohila,Unnai Maatrinaal,Kannamma (Reprise)

10 Endradhukulla Music Review

Movie: 10 Endrathukulla

Cast: Vikram,Samantha Ruth Prabhu,Pasupathy,Jackie Shroff

Director: Vijay Milton

Music director: D.Imman

1.Vroom Vroom-Santhosh Hariharan

With a movie that has a classy and glitzy look all over, Imman must deliver a song that is outright energetic. But sadly he fails to do so, composing a bland tune and making it appear as a racy track. Though this high voltage number has its moments like the references to Virat Kohli, Kamal Hassan & James Bond, thumping guitar riffs and Santhosh's endearing vocals, the tune arrangement bogs it down. Might appeal with the visuals.

2.Aanalum Indha-Sathya Prakash

A soft folk melody is up next in the album. This one comes as a surprise since the film is of the urban genre. Imman indulges in his exquisite melody template and weaves a tune that is scintillating throughout. Violin sections, mild flute sounds and Hindi verses in the interludes pep up the mellifluous tune. Sathya Prakash is the king here as he blows your mind away with his honey-dipping voice. The beauty of the song lies in the Ilaiyaraaja-ish touch which Imman provides. Chartbuster!

3.Pathu Endradhukulla (Male)-Vishal Dadlani,Emcee Jesz

The title track is a speedy number that is laced with hard rock elements of the 80s and 90s. Vishal Dadlani's grungy vocals and Emcee Jesz hoarse rap portions stand out, while one can identify Hip-hop rhythm arrangement too. The frenzied electronic guitar strums make the track an instant chartbuster. This number is sure to scorch the screens.

4.Gaana Gaana-Anand Aravindakshan,Shreya Ghoshal

This song is an innovative fusion by Imman. Beginning with the sultry vocals of Anand Aravindakshan in a jazzy mode, the song transforms into a full-fledged folk. Imman's creativity is top class here as he introduces Rumba, symphony and some Middle East flavor throughout the song. Shreya Ghoshal sounds very interesting with her melodious vocals. This is the most experimented track by Imman till date!

5.Pathu Endradhukulla (Female)-Vaikom Vijayalakshmi

The title track returns, this time in the raw and earthy voice of Vaikom Vijayalakshmi. Imman does a brilliant job by roping in her as the vocalist, since she excels with her modulated singing and scathing sounds. The rhythm pattern also goes for a change. Here it is house mix beats and Hip-hop taps. Once again Imman delivers a number out of his comfort soundscape!

6.Mysterious Travel-Instrumental

A cacophony of sounds welcomes you and pulls you into an addictive trance on the very first listen. This theme is overladen with Djembe beats, haunting flute sections, Middle east rhythm and eerie strings that pleases you right from the beginning. It is unlike what Imman has composed before!

Verdict:

Except the first track, everything else works in the favor of Imman. He delivers an urban album by experimenting with different genres and sounds.

Rating: ***3/4

Picks:

Aanalum Indha,Pathu Endradhukulla (Female),Gaana Gaana,Mysterious Travel

Thoongavanam Music Review

Movie: Thoongavanam

Cast: Kamal Hassan,Trisha,Prakash Raj,Kishore

Director: Rajesh M.Selva

Music director: M.Ghibran

1.Neeye Unakku Raja-Kamal Hassan,Yazin Nizar,Aishvarrya

Ghibran indulges a new genre of music named 'glitch music' in this movie which clearly reflects in this number. The groovy beats, screeching acoustic section, growling sounds and the digital sequencing provide a haunting atmosphere. Right from the word go, Kamal Hassan's voice is top class with his raspy singing being remarkable while Aishvarrya's metallic singing is the cherry on the cake. Ghibran composes an addictive number that is sure to climb the charts soon. A sureshot winner!

Verdict:

With just a single track, Ghibran proves his mettle of composing for a noir crime thriller. His exquisite soundscape does the magic once again!

Rating: Since there is only a single track, I am not going to rate this album.

Naanum Rowdy Dhaan Music Review

Movie: Naanum Rowdy Dhaan

Cast: Vijay Sethupathi,Nayanthara,Parthiban

Director: Vignesh Shivan

Music director: Anirudh Ravichander

1.Thangamey-Anirudh Ravichander

A super cool solo number by Anirudh Ravichander opens this urban soundtrack. The young composer fuses a simple tune with excellent guitar orchestration and rock elements. The entire song has an overall sunny feel to it. Additionally the ecstatic violin solos by Anantha Krishnan stand out and provide a touch of naturalness to the optimistic progression. Anirudh rocks with an amazing start!

2.Neeyum Naanum-Anirudh Ravichander,Neeti Mohan

Anirudh churns out a scintillating melody that is sure to blow your mind away on the first listen. The Sarangi instrument plays a major part in this number, while the soft piano notes and the foot-tapping rhythm adds beauty to it. Neeti Mohan is the show-stealer with her honey-dipping voice sounding really sweet at many places while Anirudh's part too strikes a chord. Lovey-dovey all the way!

3.Naanum Rowdy Dhaan-Benny Dayal

The title track is lively, jubilant and enjoyable right from the word go. Vignesh Shivan's lyrics are quirky and modern, while Benny Dayal's peppy rendition elevates the mood of the track. Anirudh has the skill to weave a simple tune and add complexity to it by giving it a Jazzy feel. The vibrant chorus is an added advantage.

4.Yennai Maatrum Kadhale-Sid Sriram,Anirudh Ravichander

Personally I feel that this number reminds of the days when Yuvan Shankar Raja used to rule the music industry with trance-like melodies. Once again Anirudh experiments with his orchestration while Sid Sriram's soprano singing takes it to the next level. The fusion of the title track towards the end is an innovative thought by the composer. A fantastic composition!

5.Kannaane Kanne-Sean Roldan

This final song proves that Anirudh can also compose amazingly like Santhosh Narayanan. The latter's style of composition is evident throughout the number. Furthermore, Anirudh brings in a middle East flavor to the tune and fuses it with innovative folksy notes. Sean Roldan's strained vocals are a major plus to the number. Unconventional one this is!

Verdict:

After many albums which were abundant with repetitive tunes, Anirudh comes up with a groundbreaking album that is sure to top the charts and stay in the playlists for its refreshing feel and creativity!

Rating: ****

Picks:

Thangamey,Neeyum Naanum,Yennai Maatrum Kadhale,Kannaane Kanne