So Baby - Doctor Movie Single Review

The makers of Doctor have released the third single from the movie. It's titled 'So Baby'. The music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander.

On the first listen, the song resembles Remo Nee Kadhalan from the movie - Remo. Coincidentally, Remo too had music composed by Anirudh and starred Sivakarthikeyan in it.

Though Anirudh had stated that the song is a classical-western composition, the song feels rather hurried. The classical humming in middle sounds great, though. The jarring lyrics interspersed with too much techno make the song less catchy.

The latest trend is to create a fun video with a song in between so as to catch up on views on Youtube and become viral rather than be fully focussed on the song itself. 

We are eagerly waiting for the next single from Anirudh from Doctor movie. 

So Baby - Not so great baby - 2.5 / 5 (two and a half stars) 

Veere Di Wedding Music Review

Movie: Veere Di Wedding

Cast: Kareena Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhaskar, Shikha Talsania

Director: Shashanka Ghosh

Music director(s): Shashwat Sachdev, Vishal Mishra, QARAN, White Noise

1. Pappi Le Loon - Sunidhi Chauhan, Shashwat Sachdev

The album begins with an energetic number that has girlishness written all over it. The house-mix beats and the crossover with Bhangra in the interlude set the joyful mood of the song. With some synth loops and sensual sounds in the middle, this number scores high on the discotheque quotient. Sunidhi Chauhan's bashful rendition falls short and Shashwat Sachdev's voice is nowhere to be heard. Just an average party track.

2. Bhangra Ta Sajda - Neha Kakkar, Romy, Shashwat Sachdev

A full-on Bhangra is up next in the album. Romy and Shashwat Sachdev entertain the listeners with their respective renditions. However, it is Neha Kakkar's sensuous rendition that stands out. There's nothing new in the orchestration or the arrangement of the instruments. It's just yet another dance number that is present in the movie just to scorch the screens.

3. Laaj Sharam - Divya Kumar, Jasleen Royal, Enbee

This contemporary Punjabi wedding number by White Noise is yet another Bhangra song that is present for a wedding sequence in the movie. Apart from the upbeat rhythm, there's nothing unique in the song to write home about. The singers Divya Kumar and Jasleen Royal do justice to their respective lines. Expect some rigorous dance steps to this number.

4. Veere - Vishal Mishra, Aditi Singh Sharma, Dhvani Bhanushali, Nikita Ahuja, Payal Dev, Lulia Vantur, Sharvi Yadav

After some commercial chartbusters, composer Vishal Mishra brings in a refreshing change to the album with this urban track. His effervescent voice coupled with Aditi Singh Sharma's fruity vocals and the ebullient chorus make this song a lovely listen. The instantly catchy tune brings in an addictive tone to the number and the repetitive phrase 'Veere veere...' is sure to become an anthem in the upcoming days. Pick of the album!

5. Bass Gira De Raja - Shashwat Sachdev

Shashwat Sachdev dons the cap of composer again. The specialty of this song lies in the enthralling usage of bass. Coupled with the house-mix rhythm, this number has an interesting arrangement of instruments. Shashwat Sachdev croons with elan, bringing in some semi-classical touches occasionally. Might do even better with visuals.

6. Aa Jao Na - Arijit Singh, Shashwat Sachdev

The low-pitched rendition of Arijit Singh is different to listen. And when he goes 'Aa jao na...', his voice sounds like honey to the ears. Shashwat Sachdev indulges in some mellowed piano notes and brings in a breezy soundscape with the dulcet bass sections. The simplistic tune is instantly likeable. Perfect number for a long drive with your loved one!

7. Dagmag Dagmag - Vishal Mishra, Payal Dev

Composer Vishal Mishra comes up with a quirky number. Right from the word go, the number is surrounded by an addictive atmosphere. Despite having a stereotyped rhythm, Vishal indulges in some funny percussion. His high-pitched rendition along with Payal Dev's joyful vocals make this number a fantastic listen. Enjoyable all the way!

8. Tareefan - Badshah

Released as a single, this number has been on the top of the charts for a long time. Though its a peppy club song, the lounge-like atmosphere provides an innovative streak. Badshah's rap is top-class, making the song all the more likeable. Expect some upbeat visuals with the leading ladies in this one. Classy finish!

Verdict:

Veere Di Wedding is a cacophony of Punjabi wedding numbers, except a couple of pleasing melodies. Strictly tailored for fat Indian weddings!

Rating: **3/4 (2.75 / 5)

Picks:

Veere, Aa Jao Na, Dagmag Dagmag, Tareefan

Naa Nuvve Music Review

Movie: Naa Nuvve

Cast: Nandamuri Kalyan Ram, Tamannaah

Director: Jayendra Panchapakesan

Music director: Sharreth

1. Hey Hey ILU - Tipu

Sharreth begins the album with a foot-tapping number that has peppiness written all over it. Despite the interesting sounds and contemporary arrangement, this number falls short of being catchy. Furthermore, Tipu's voice doesn't suit well for this song. The composer could have chosen a young voice to reflect the hero's feelings. Strictly tailored for a one-time listen.

2. Nijama Manasa - M.M. Manasi, Yazin Nizar

Up next is a breezy melody that sways between mellowed and thumping rhythm at times. Sharreth indulges in some soul-stirring piano notes and an interesting string progression, making the song a delightful listen. M.M. Manasi's honeyed rendition is pleasing to listen, while Yazin Nizar complements her well. The flute in the second interlude is mesmerizing and elevates the romantic mood of the number. Thumbs up!

3. Right Right Right - Tipu

Tipu gets to croon yet another forgettable number. Sharreth tries to compose a fast-paced number that should make the audience dance, but he fails miserably in the overall packaging. There's nothing innovative even in the orchestration to write home about. You can give this one a miss, while listening to the album. 

4. Chiniki Chiniki - Karthik, Saptaparna Chakraorty

Right from the word go, this number has Sharreth's signature style stamped all over it. It is a pleasing melody with light classical touches here and there. The rhythm sways between dulcet and upbeat. However, the transition serves as a refreshing change. Karthik and Saptaparna Chakraorty adopt a dreamy tone to bring out the romantic mood. Perfect for lovey-dovey evenings!

5. Premika - Sharreth

The entire song has a stage-play-like feel. With a heavy ballad rhythm, this romantic melody is an interesting composition from Sharreth. He gets to yield the megaphone and does a commendable job. The string progression accompaniment in the background is joyful to listen. Except the 'ra ra' chorus throughout, the song works well in other factors.

6. Naa Nuvve - Priya Mali

Here comes yet another mesmerizing romantic melody. Sharreth indulges in some soulful piano notes and unplugged rhythm to create a lovely soundscape. Priya Mali's mellifluous voice adds a contemporary touch to the song. This song is sure to have some emotional montage sequences in the movie. Another classic winner!

7. Hey Hey ILU - Rita

This female version is no different from the previous version. The only saving factor in this version is Rita's ebullient singing. Hope both the versions have striking visuals to make it a hit with listeners. 

Verdict:

Sharreth's soundtrack for this contemporary love story is a mixed bag of melodies and foot-tapping numbers, with only the melodious songs creating an impact.

Rating: **3/4 (2.75 / 5)

Picks:

Nijama Manasa, Chiniki Chiniki, Naa Nuvve

Mahanati Music Review

Movie: Mahanati

Cast: Keerthy Suresh, Dulquer Salmaan, Samantha Akkineni, Vijay Devarakonda

Director: Nag Ashwin

Music director: Mickey J. Meyer

1. Mahanati - Anurag Kulkarni

Beginning with a cacophony of traditional instruments, this theme song has grandeur stamped all over it. Mickey J. Meyer indulges in some upbeat rhythm and strong orchestration, coupled with the powerful voice of Anurag Kulkarni. The ebullient chorus which goes 'Mahanati...' is magnificent to listen. Expect to see Keerthy Suresh's splendour in this brilliantly crafted song. Winner!

2. Aagipo Baalyama - Ramya Behara

Going by its soundscape, one can detect that this song might trace actress Savithri's childhood days. The entire song is made up of Paul Raj's exciting tabla beats that provide a stage-play-like feel. Mickey J. Meyer keeps the orchestration minimal and the efforts fall on Ramya Behara's playful vocals. Sirivennala Sitarama Sastry's lyrics are top-class. This track is sure to take you back to those ancient days.

3. Mooga Manasulu - Anurag Kulkarni, Shreya Ghoshal

This breezy romantic ballad is enthralling right from the beginning. It has that nostalgic trace as well as a contemporary arrangement, which would be enjoyed by all kinds of listeners. The brilliant string section throughout and the pleasing veena in the first interlude deserve a special mention. Anurag Kulkarni and Shreya Ghoshal adopt a dreamy tone to croon this lovely song. Chartbuster duet!

4. Sada Nannu - Charulatha Mani

Mickey J. Meyer goes all classical for this endearing number. Right from the word go, the beauty of this song is accentuated by the soulful soundscape, pleasant rhythm, and flute and veena sections. Charulatha Mani's breathtaking vocals provide the song an otherworldly feel. The chorus accompaniment is a brilliant move by the composer. Coupled with the visuals, this mesmerizing classical number is sure to rock!

5. Chivaraku Migiledi - Sunitha

Here comes a soul-stirring pathos that is sure to trace the downfall of actress Savithri. The mellowed waltz soundscape elevates the gloomy mood of the song. Sunitha's honeyed voice is the icing on the cake and she emotes intensely. The accompanying chorus is an added advantage. This song might grow on you like a slow poison. Noteworthy!

Verdict:

Mickey J. Meyer brings out an astounding soundtrack for Mahanati. The songs can definitely be enjoyed as standalone numbers as well as they can be joyfully experienced along with the visuals. 

Rating: ****3/4 (4.75 / 5)

Picks:

Mahanati, Mooga Manasulu, Sada Nannu, Chivaraku Migiledi

Naa Peru Surya Naa Illu India Music Review

Movie: Naa Peru Surya Naa Illu India

Cast: Allu Arjun, Anu Emmanuel, Arjun Sarja, Sarathkumar

Director: Vakkantham Vamsi

Music director (s): Vishal-Shekhar

1. Sainika - Vishal Dadlani

This is an ultimately fast-paced song that serves as a dedication to the soldiers of Indian Army. With thumping beats and blaring orchestration, this song is sure to invoke feelings of patriotism in listeners. Vishal Dadlani croons Ramajogayya Sastry's motivational lyrics perfectly with his hoarse voice. This number is sure to scorch the screens, with Allu Arjun playing some tough montage scenes. Chartbuster!

2. Lover Also Fighter Also - Shekhar Ravjiani

This song focuses on the hero wooing his love interest. The tune falls under the commercial template and doesn't impact much. Shekhar Ravjiani's vocals are flawless, while the orchestration and arrangement falls short. The only saving factor is the foot-tapping rhythm that would make listeners go for a second listen. Might fare better with the visuals. 

3. Beautiful Love - Armaan Malik, Chaitra Ambadipudi

Released as the third single, this breezy melody is a pleasing romantic ballad. It has a Bollywood-ish feel because of Armaan Malik's mellifluous voice. Chaitra Ambadipudi complements him well with her lovely vocals. Though the tune is simplistic, Vishal-Shekhar paint it with a effervescent soundscape and make it engaging. This one is sure to climb the charts in the upcoming days. Perfect for a lovey-dovey evening!

4. Maya - Arijit Singh, Ramya Behera

Another love song continues the soundtrack. The number begins as a melodious one, but soon veers off to a foot-tapping folk section. Then it sways between both the genres. Vishal-Shekhar have handled it well and it doesn't end up as a confusing tune. Arijit Singh renders with elan and Ramya Behera croons at ease. However, it takes time for the tune to sink in and it might not go down well with some listeners.

5. Yenniyello Yenniyello - Malavika

This short track is sure to serve as a background for a montage sequence. It has a devotional feel and foot-tapping rhythm that make it an engaging listen. Malavika's sweet voice and the ebullient chorus elevate the mood of the song.

6. Iraga Iraga - Rahul Sipligunj, Mohana Bhogaraju

A high-on-energy folksy duet brings the album to a grand finale. The repetitive phrase 'Iraga Iraga...' is sure to become an anthem in the upcoming days. Rahul Sipligunj and Mohana Bhogaraju's powerful vocals increase the intoxicating mood of the song. Expect some scorching dance moves from Allu Arjun and Anu Emmanuel in this one. Though the track is chartbuster material, it falls into a stereotyped folk template.

Verdict:

Vishal-Shekhar's sophomore Telugu soundtrack is stamped with commercial elements and doesn't have any innovative songs. However, it is sure to enchant Allu Arjun's fans and might stay on air for a long time.

Rating: **1/2 (2.5 / 5)

Picks:

Sainika, Beautiful Love

Aravindante Athidhikal Music Review

Movie: Aravindante Athidhikal

Cast: Vineeth Sreenivasan, Sreenivasan, Aju Varghese, Urvashi, Nikhila Vimal

Director: M. Mohanan

Music director: Shaan Rahman

1. Kanne Thaai Malare - Vineeth Sreenivasan

Shaan Rahman opens the album with a pleasing song that spreads a hymn-like feel throughout. The unplugged soundscape makes for a beautiful listen and all the efforts fall on Vineeth Sreenivasan's fantastic rendition. The overall package is an innovative dedication to the Goddess Mookambika, as Shaan Rahman progresses the tune only with the vocals, accompanying piano notes and strings.

2. Rasathi - Vineeth Sreenivasan, Liya Susan Verghese

Beginning with an ebullient flute section, this melodious number takes the listeners on a A.R. Rahmani-sh journey. Shaan Rahman's tune is sweet and the accompanying string section is a major plus point. The flute sections, coupled with the mellowed piano notes, chenda melam and the vibrant chorus (Liya Susan Verghese's vocals) in the first interlude, deserve a standing ovation. Magical!

3. Aanandhame - Anne Amie

Shaan Rahman continues to weave magic with yet another heartmelting melody. With minimal orchestration, the song scores high on Anne Amie's mellifluous vocals and Vineeth Sreenivasan's backing vocals. The only complaint here is the length. Wish Shaan had composed this as a full-fledged song. Another winner!

4. Endhe Kanna - Megha Josekutty

A breezy melody is up next in the album. The effervescent soundscape, coupled with debutante Megha Josekutty's honeyed voice, makes for a beautiful listen. Shaan Rahman indulges in abundant piano and strings to make the number all the more wonderful. The accompanying flute and male humming are the icing on the cake. You just cannot stop listening to this one!

5. Kripaakari Devi - Mithun Jayaraj

This is yet another dedication to Goddess Mookambika. However, this one has a fast-paced tune with lots of chenda melam and traditional instruments used in it. Mithun Jayaraj's devotional rendition is top-class here. The repetitive chant 'Kripaakari devi...' is addictive. Shaan Rahman couldn't have given a more dashing ending to the album.

Verdict:

This is a classic soundtrack from Shaan Rahman. The melodious songs are sure to stay in your playlists for a long time. Enjoy these songs on a lovey-dovey evening!

Rating: ****1/2 (4.5 / 5)

Picks:

Rasathi, Aanandhame, Endhe Kanna