Avan Ivan by Yuvan Shankar Raja - Music Preview

A reason to revive this blog :)

Expectations are high on this Avan Ivan music as Bala has come back to Yuvan after doing two films with Ilayaraja. It's a well known fact that Yuvan is capable of delivering great tracks for unusual, offbeat scripts.

A few days ago, Amazon and Sony Music released 30 sec samples of Avan Ivan tracks. You may listen to the samples here.

My expectations have gone high after listening to these samples.

Of the five songs, Rasathi, Oru Malayoram are going to be my picks I believe. Dia Dole has good drum beats while Avana pathi, folk song brings 'Paruthiveeran' Yuvan back. Couldn't make any guess on the pathos "Mudhal Murai". But, going by Yuvan's tweet, in which he mentioned "It's intense", I think this will be a haunting number. Yuvan also wrote that he had used 40 live drums for one of the songs. I guess it is Dia dole or Avana pathi.

Eagerly waiting for the songs. Should be out by April 18th! Get ready folks!

Vinith...

Tags: Avan Ivan Yuvan, Bala, songs.

ஜில்லா விட்டு வந்த கதை - ஈசன் படப்பாடல்

இந்த வலைப்பூவிற்கு கிட்டதட்ட பூட்டு போட வேண்டிய நிலமைக்கு தள்ளப்பட்டுவிட்டிருந்தேன். மந்திரப்புன்னகை, எங்கேயும் காதல் படப்பாடல்கள் வெகுவாக கவர்ந்தாலும், விமர்சனம் எழுதமுடியவில்லை. இனியும் எழுத முடியுமா என்பதும் சந்தேகம் தான்.

ஈசன் படப்பாடல்களை கேட்க நேர்ந்தது. ஒரு ஆல்பமாக ஈர்க்கத் தவறினாலும், இதில் உள்ள 'ஜில்லா விட்டு' பாடல் என்னை மிகவும் கவர்ந்துவிட்டது. உடனே எழுத வேண்டும் என்று தோன்றியது. அதான்.. வந்துட்டேன் :)

'வந்தனம் வந்தனம்' என்று பாடல் தொடங்கும்போதே, ஆட்டம் போட வைக்கும் 'ஊரோரம் புளியமரம்' போன்றொரு பாடலுக்கு தயாரகிவிட்டேன். 'கைகள் தாளம் போடனும், விசில் ராகம் பாடனும்' னு வரிகளைக் கடந்தவுடன் முடிவும் செய்துவிட்டேன். ஆனால் ஏமாற்றம். மறுகனமே 'சுகத்த விக்கும் பொண்ணுக்கும் மனசிருக்கும் கேளுங்க' னு வரிகள் கவர்ந்தன. வித்தியாசமான பாடலுக்கு தயாரானேன்.

8வது பெண்ணாக பிறந்து, துப்பில்லாதவனுக்கு வாக்கப்பட்டு, வயிற்றைக் கழுவ தன் உடலை விற்று பிழைப்பு நடத்தும் ஒரு பெண், தன் கதையை பாடலில் சொல்வது போல் அமைந்துள்ளது இந்த பாடல்.

அருமை... மோஹனின் பாடல் வரிகள், பாடிய தஞ்சை செல்வியின் உருக்கமான குரல் என பாடல் என்னை மிகவும் கவர்ந்திழுத்தது. சில வரிகள் இங்கே...

காய்ச்சலுக்கு காடு வித்தேன்,
இருமலுக்கு நிலம் வித்தேன்...
வித்ததெல்லாம் போக, எச்ச்மாக நானுமே..
அட மிச்சமாக நானுமே...

என்று பாடும்போதே, அடுத்த வரிகளை நம்மால் யூகிக்க முடிகிறது...

உசிர விட மானம் பெரிசு,
புத்திக்க்குத்தான் தெரிஞ்சிச்சு...
வயிறு எங்கே கேட்டிச்சு...

போன்ற வரிகள் ஒரு தாக்கத்தை ஏற்படுத்தின.

கண்டிப்பாக கேட்க வேண்டிய பாடல். மிஸ் பண்ணிடாதீங்க.... அதிரடியான, காதைப்பிளக்கும் இசை, புரியாத வரிகள், அர்த்தமில்லாத வரிகள் என்றிருக்கும் பாடல்களுக்கு நடுவில், இது ஒரு வித்தியாசமான அனுபவம் தான்.


பி.கு: படத்தில் இந்த பாடலை எப்படி பயன்படுத்தி இருக்கிறார்கள் என்று தெரியவில்லை. சம்பந்தமில்லாமல் வரும் திருவிழாப் பாடலாகவா அல்லது, ஒரு கதாப்பாத்திரம் தன் கதையை சொல்வது போல் வருகிறாதா என்று தெரியவில்லை. கதாப்பாத்திரம் எனில், அதன் பாதிப்பு அதிகமாக இருக்கும் என்பது மட்டும் நிச்சயம்.

விநித்...

Tags: Music Reviews, Song Reviews, jilla vittu vandha kadhai, eesan, easan song review, james vasanthan, thanjai selvi folk song, village song.

Va Quarter Cutting - Music Review

Thediye thediye (though reported to be a lifted one here) is the pick of the album. It has a tune that sits comfortably in your ears and takes you with it so beautifully. More than the tune and orchestration, it is the lyrics that blew me away. Special mention to Kumararaja (Director of yet-to-be released ‘Aaranya Kaandam’). Andrea Jermiah has sung it well except for 'ல' ,'ள' massacre. The beauty of the song lies in its structure and the theme of it. The song has no regular Pallavi-Charanam structure. It has two parts, first half followed by an interlude which is followed by the second half. First half expresses the disappointments faced by the girl in searching her destination (a boy friend??) while the second half expresses the happiness as the search ends positively. I’m quoting a sample of the lyrics in this song.

First half disappointment:

வந்தும் வராமல் போகும்,

இரண்டாம் தும்மல், - போல் ஏய்த்திடும்,

என் Luck-உம் ஏமாற்றியே போகும்

Second half happiness:

கண்ணால் கண்டாலே போதும், கொட்டாவி போலே,

ஒட்டிக் கொள்ளும், என் ஆனந்தம் தொற்றிக்கொள்ளும்

Isn’t that so beautiful?? I loved it.

Unnai Kan theduthe that starts like a remix soon gets its own form. The orchestration is superb and the lyrics are very funny.

Saarpu saarpu ji is a song that stands out mainly for the ROTFL type lyrics and the rendition. If this song rings a bell when you listen to it, then it should be the Hindi song ‘emosanal atyachar’ from Dev D. Yes, the song does resemble this hindi number in some places.

‘Saudi Baasha’ is the only song that scores low marks in this album. There is nothing great that could impress me. May be I should give it some time.

G V Prakash Kumar scores a distinction for Va Quarter Cutting album. An entertaining album that is close to perfect.

Regards,

Vinith....

Tags: Va quarter cutting music review, album review, songs review, va 1-4 cutting, va 1/3 cutting songs, gv prakash kumar.

Yuvan's Boss engira Baskaran - Music review

Just before we could finish enjoying the songs of Naan Mahan Alla, we have got the next album from Yuvan. Oh man! He is like a machine. Churning out album after album. So quick and fast. Way to go yuvan! His latest album Boss Engira Bhaskaran is however a mediocre album.

'Yaar indha pen thaan' is the pick of the album. A scintillating melody with lovely interludes and feel good lyrics by Na. Muthukumar. Haricharan gives the best when it comes to this kind of romantic melodies. He does it again. Tamil audience may get ready for another 'Thuli thuli'.

'Thathi thavum paper' is a song which Yuvan usually reserves for himself. This time, he has handed over the job to talented Karthi, who has done a good job. Despite the impeccable orchestration with lovely sax interludes, the song fails to instantly catch you, coz of the weak lyrics. Lyrics are pretty average and dud.

Ayile ayile (ilo iloo) is just another passable track while the other two tracks 'Mama mama' and the title song 'ada boss bossu' are of run-of-the-mill standard.

Overall, I personally rate Boss Enkira Baskaran above the team's last album "Siva Manasula Sakthi". Yar intha pen is enough to fight against all the songs in SMS. ;-)

Regards,
Vinith

Boss engira baskaran songs review, album review, arya, raajesh, rajesh, nayan, nayanthara, music review, yar andha ponnu song.

Nan Mahan Alla by Yuvan

One of the much awaited albums of the year. Nan Mahan Alla. Karthi-Yuvan, the magical combo of "Paiya" is back

There are only four songs in the album, plus a second version of Va Va nilava, which is as same as the first version.

Hyper catchy "Va Va Nilva" will go well with the audience. A nice song with poetic lyrics and flute interludes. Can't wait to see the picturization. Kids' chorus add a special charm at the end.

Even though parts of orchestration in "Oru Maalai neram" is inspired from Masakkali (Delhi 6, AR Rahman), the song doesn't fail to impress you. A lovable duet, grows better after few listens. Javed Ali and Shilpa being the wrong choices especially Shilpa's rendition is soulless.

Yuvan's innovation comes to the fore with "Iragai Pole". A trendy song with thumping orchestration. It's high time Yuvan stops using the "Auto Tune" which plays the spoilsport.

Madhu Balakrishnan replaces Ilaiyaraja in "Theivam illai" who is Yuvan's regular choice to sing pathos. A passable track with noteworthy lyrics by Yuga Barathi.

Overall, Yuvan never ceases to surprise us with trendy music. Last time it was "Oh Shala" in Kadhal solla vandhen and this time it is "Iragai Pole". Three out of four songs get distinction marks. Nan Mahan Alla is said to be an intense thriller. Songs will gel well with the script.

Regards

Vinith...

Tags: Naan mahaan alla music, songs review, nan mahan alla music review, yuvan shankar raja, karthi, suseendhran, vennila kabadi kuzhu, susindhran, nan mahaan alla album.

Thillalangadi - Yuvan Shankar Raja, Thaman

Thillalangadi tracks are out. Has 7 tracks in total. There were news doing rounds that Thaman has done two songs. I thought that was a rumor. But it is true. 2 out of 7 songs are composed by Thaman, who did original Kick songs.

"Sol pechu" sung by Chitra, Shreya and Yuvan is perhaps the only good song in the album. A song that reflects two different attitude of a girl who is about to fall in love. Chithra sings for the attitude that says NO to love while Shreya sings the attitude that says YES to love. Fabulous vocals by both of them. This song will be a chart buster once the movie releases.

"Ding Ding", sung by talented Vijay Prakash and Naveen is very much saved by the Kids' lovely chorus. Drum beats in the second interlude is noteworthy. "Memory loss", is a funny song, in the line of Sirikkiren (Bale Pandiya, music by Devan Egambaram). Khailas Kher's singing adds an extra layer of fun. This song may not be remembered for a long time.

"Pattu pattampoochi" sung by Simbu & Manasi Scott is insipid while "Thothu ponen", by Shankar Mahadevan is an obsolete, tune wise, orchestration wise, lyrics wise.

Thaman reuses two of his songs in Kick (Original version of Thillalangadi). "Pootta pathadhum" sung by Suchitra and "Idhayam Karaigiradhu" bu Vardhini are both mundane. The latter is slightly works better because of its tune.

Overall, Thillalangadi turns out to be an average album overall. Don't worry. Yuvan will compensate and satisfy us in Nan Mahan Alla, which is hitting the stores in other few days. Get ready!

Regards,

Vinith

Keywords: Thillalangadi, thillaalangady, music review, songs review, jeyam raja, jayam ravi, thamanna, yuvan shankar raja, thillalangadi 2010, thaman songs, album, kick remake, kick songs reused.

Aridhu Aridhu - Music by S Thaman

His Eeram did not impress me much. His Mundhinam Parthene did only to some extent. When everybody went ga-ga over Munthinam Paarthene songs, I felt a little awkward and suspected if the music sense in me was fading! LOL. I still could not enjoy the songs thoroughly. Now, composer S Thaman arrives with Aridhu Aridhu which kindles me to revisit his earlier albums.

Here is my take on his Aridhu Aridhu.

Un Uyirai kollum, sung by talented Karthik is very Rahman-ish in terms of orchestration. The beats that start at the part 'seyalgaL valikkiradhu.......' affirms that. The high point of the track is however, Karthik's soulful rendition and meaningful lyrics, "ஏர்க்கலப்பைகள் ஏங்குதடா...." for instance.

"Missing Something", a seducing melody, seductively sung by Reeta. The overall feel of the song resembles Savage Garden's "Truly Madly Deeply". More of English verses and less of tamil verses, almost make it an English song.

Oh la la li - A peppy number brilliantly rendered by Suchithra. I have never been a fan of her voice in any of her earlier songs. I liked her voice in Pesum Poove (Mundhinam Parthene). Now, I have fallen in love with her voice in this song. A rocking number with thumping music arrangement. Lyrics are my only concern here.

Azhagaai Sirithayada, sung by the film's director Mathivanan, gives a mysterious feel. Mathivanan's singing is not convincing. The song would have reached greater heights if Thaman had roped in a different singer.

Despite the powerful orchestration (Excellent layer works which is more common in Yuvan songs) Kanavugal edhuvarai failed to impress me. and Saturday girlOdu is perhaps the weakest song in this album.

Overall a fantastic album. Go for it.

Regards,

Vinith...

Keywords: Thaman, taman, Arithu arithu songs review, music review, album review, aridhu aridhu, madhivanan,

Kadhal Solla Vanthen - Music by Yuvan Shankar Raja

Kadhal Solla Vandhen, is an upcoming movie directed by Bhoopathy Pandiyan that has Balaji of Kana Kaanum Kalangal in the lead. The film was earlier titled Naan Avalai sandhitha pozhudhu.

There are totally five tracks.

"Oh Shala" song is the best in this album. A scintillating song with foot tapping beats. Lyrics by Saradhi (newbie?), seamlessly blend with the tune. Yuvan's rendition enhances the charm of the song. If picturized well, the song can become a massive hit among the audience. The song is simple with three basic notes in the pallavi. Yuvan has beautifully shuffled the tunes to form Charanam. First interlude is noteworthy.

Enna Enna aagiren sung by Vijay Yesudoss is an excellent melody with nice lyrics. "Kadhal Silai ondru........." part in Enna aagiren song is awesome. The song has the potential to become super hit. Oru Vanavillin a passable track is completely spoiled by Udit.

Charanam parts in "Anbulla Sandhiya" more than compensate for it's lackluster start in Pallavi. This song is supposed to give a haunting feel to the listeners, but fails miserably.

Experimental track of this album arrives with "saami varugdhu kadhal samy varugudhu", a thiruvizha kind of song (not exactly of this genre) sung by poosari. The song reminds us of various Iyappan songs that we get to hear in during the season. Make no mistake. Only the use of Udukkai makes you feel so. This song has ultimately funny lyrics. Selecting a real Poosari to render this song is a good move. The song can rock B and C center audience.

Yuvan's score for this less popular movie is excellent. Two great songs. Worth going for!

Tags: nan avalai sandhithabodhu, naan avalai sandhitha pozhuthu, kaadhal solla vanthen, kathal solla vandhen, yuvan shankar raja, oh shalla, bhupathy pandian, boopathi pandiyan, balaji.

Baana - Yuvan Shankar Raja

A Yuvan album after a long time!

'Thaakudhe kan thakkudhe' sung by Yuvan himself, is peppy song with very good music. This is not Yuvan's usual way of singing. He has tried something different here. Lyrics by Vaali deserves a special mention.

The best song in the album is "Paithiyam pudikkudhu penne". A lovely melody with beautiful lyrics. However, the feel of the song is completely spoiled by the use of 'auto tune'. The CD Cover says that the song is sung by Karthik. But one can hardly recognize his voice. Singer Karthik is known for the 'feel' adds to melodies. That's completely missing here. The Piano bits in the prelude, interlude and postlude is awesome.

'En nenjil', sung by Sadhana Sargam is just an ordinary song. The tune isn't really Yuvan'ish. Though Sadhana has done her part well, I personally feel, Shreya Goshal would have been a better choice for this song.

Kuppathu rajakkal is very average and that reminds you of Goa title track. The insane lyrics in the item number 'Ullara poondhu paaru', sung by Roshini, can easily turn you off.

Overall: Not a convincing album. I'm disappointed. Yuvan could have done it better.

Regards,
Vinith...

Keywords, tags: Bana kathadi, baana kaathadi, kaathaadi, yuvan shanker raja, album, songs review, music review, album review, paithiyam pidikkudhe, oru naal.

Ravanan - AR Rahman's Musical

Hindi Ravan songs are out. Ravan turns out to be a stunning album from our Academy Award Winner! Simply out-of-the-world compositions with several new instruments and sounds. Rahman is genius.

Behene de muje, Katta Katta, Khile Re and Ranja Ranjha are my hot favorites. Addicted to these songs. I'm very much looking forward to the Tamil version 'Ravanan'. Just cannot wait to hear Shreya Goshal's voice in "Khili Re". I bet. This song will be more beautiful in Tamil. Such a melody it is.

I'm trying my best to avoid listening to the Hindi version as I'm more interested in it's Tamil version. Listening to Hindi version first will naturally put Tamil version one step below. Nah... I don't want this to happen.

Eagerly waiting for 'Raavanan'!

Vinith...

Keywords: Ravan, Raavan, ravanan, hindi, tamil version, rahman, mani ratnam, maniratnam, songs, album review, hindi ravan review.

Bale Pandiya - Devan Ekambaram's impressive debut!

Devan Ekambaram, who has been a singer and occasional actor (Parthiban Kanavu, Unnale unnale), makes his debut as a music director in Bale Pandiya, an impressive album with some addictive numbers.

The pick of the album for me is "Happy", a capella song. The interesting aspects of this song are, the song has no music in the background, sung by 20 singers and the lyrics by Thamarai. A good amount of innovation has gone in. As the title implies, this song is sure to make listeners 'Happy' ;-) ;-)

'Sirikkiren', instrumental (Violin) version is a rocking stuff while the actual song is quite a fun to listen. Aaradha kobamillai and Kangale Kamalalayam are neat melodies with mild orchestration, excellently rendered by Raman Mahadevan and Mahalakshmi Iyer (Oh. We missed you) in the former and Unnikrishnan and Mrinalini in the latter.

The other two songs Ivan Thedal and the Title track 'Bale Paandiya' did not appeal to me in first few listens.

Overall, a very nice album. Considering that this is his debut, Devan Ekambaram has done an excellent job. Strongly recommended.

Tags: Bale pandiya songs review, bale paandiya music review, new bale pandiya, bale pandiya 2010 music, album, devan egambaram, piya, vishnu

Madharasapattinam - Music by GV Prakash

Madharasapattinam, is a period film that is set in the backdrop of pre-independence India. Considering the fact that period films are rare in Tamil Industry, the expectations for this album was really high. Here's my take on this album.

'Vamma Duraiamma' sung by Udit Narayanan, Cochin Hanifa (late), is a hilarious song where Udit explains an English woman (Amy Jackson), the tradition, practices, and kindness of Tamilnadu and Tamilians, while Haneefa (sounds like a tourist guide) takes care of translating it to Amy. The highlight of this song is clearly the 'literal' translation of Haneefa. Thoroughly enjoyable. This song should rock once the movie releases. We miss you Hanifa sir :-(

With a lengthy flute interlude and impeccable orchestration, lovely melody 'Pookkal Pookum tharunam', easily becomes the pick of the album. Roopkumar, though gives an excellent feel, is yet to get his diction fully right. OTOH, Harini rocks. The sudden shift to English verse (sung by Andrea) is noteworthy. 'Thaana thom thanana' piece is the highlight of this song.

'Kaatrile katrile', sung by Hariharan fails to impress despite the neat fusion of (old) 'Vandhe matram' in the interlude. The choice of singers in 'Megame Meghame' (sung by MSV, Vikram & Nasser) evokes an interest but the song falls flat.

Aaruyire Aaruyire is yet another beautiful melody with soulful rendition from Sonu Nigam and Saindhavi. The orchestration reminds me of some ARR works (though, there is nothing direct).

The 'Dance Theme', with the strains of "pookkal pookum' is likable while the other theme 'Feel of Love' is simply mesmerizing.

Talking about the Lyrics department, Na. Muthukumar (one of my favorite lyricists) has penned all the songs. Not outstanding. There are hardly any new lyrics in the songs. How many times are we gonna hear 'nee illaiyel nan illaiyE, nee pOgum anbe, nAn saagiren' kind of lyrics. Wake up Muthu ;) You can do better. I know ;) .

Verdict: A decent soundtrack. GV Prakash Kumar, could have worked more to make it a memorable album. Period film gives a wonderful opportunity to experiment and explore. GVP has not used this opportunity to the full extent.

Regards,
Vinith....

Keyword: Madharasapattinam songs review, madarasapattinam music, madharaspattinam album review, songs review, gv prakash kumar, madraspattinam review.

Vinnai Thandi Varuvaaya - Music by AR Rahman

Sorry for the delay writing this. Few songs took time to grow. I was initially very much disappointed. But now, I'm feeling much better though I feel that the album is not very addictive as I expected it to be.

What ARR has done in Vinnai Thandi Varuvaya is, he has gone beyond the boundary of regular Tamil albums and has given us some fresh sounds and music. Or I can even say that there are some new genre of music. This is not a run-of-the-mill romantic album which we expect from Goutham Menon movies. This is something different.

Delightful Hosanna with catchy rap bits from Blaze and fantastic rendition by Vijay Prakash (Man, he will head towards a great success if utilized properly by Tamil composers), peppy Omana penne with magical Nadaswaram sound in the background that showcases ARR's creativity and the adorable chorus which is quite usual in all ARR albums, are certainly treat to ears.

The magical Aromale which is sung by Alphonse is yet another unusual song with Malayalam lyrics written by Kaithapram. This one seems to be a marriage song. So get ready for a visual treat when it comes on the screen. The chorus "Swasthi swathi" has the stamp of AR Rehman.

It is Shreya's divinely voice that impressed me first in Mannippaya song. Rahman, beautifully incorporates couple of Thirukkural in this song. However, the way they've been tuned isn't completely satisfying. I would say that ARR has not sung his parts well. This is certainly a stunner.

Anbil Avan is good with the traditional while Kannukkul sounds average to me except the catchy chorus that chips in. Vinnai thandi varuvaya, the title track sung by Karthi is the only song that did not impress me even after multiple listening. Felt like the song was merely dragging even though Karthi has sung it soulfully.

Every song has some magic in it which is sure to attract the audience.

Overall - I'm very much confused whether to call it an outstanding album or an above average album. Torn between.

Regards,
Vinith...

Keyword: vinnai thaandi varuvaaya, vinnai thandi varuvaya music, arr, gvm, goutam menon, gowtham vasudev menon, ar rahman, rehman, vtv songs review, music review, simbu, trisha, harris,

Yuvan's debut in Bollywood is interesting

Finally, our Yuvan Shankar Raja makes his debut in Bollywood. He has composed one song for the Siddharth starrer "Striker". The movie has 6 composers tuning the songs including the most happening composers like Amit Trivedi, Preetam, Blaaze. Though his debut is not big, he makes a good use of the opportunity provided.

"Haq Se" is the song composed by Yuvan. Yuvan himself has sung it along with Siddharth. The song has a peppy feel to it with interesting beats in the background. Yuvan has tuned it very carefully that the song doesn't carry a South Indian flavor. Just my opinion. Job well done!

Give it a listen and share your thought!

I cannot comment much on this song or the rendition as I'm devoid of Hindi Film Music! Musically this is a good song!

Hope Yuvan makes it big in Bolly with this song!

Regards
Vinith...

Keywords: Yuvan hindi music review, haq se review, yuvan bollywood debut, siddharth, striker, amit trivedi, preetam

Gorgeous, Overwhelming, Astonishing 'Goa' - Music by Yuvan Shankar Raja

One of the most awaited soundtracks is out. Yuvan-Venkat Prabhu combo is back with a bang.

The breezy duet "Idhu Varai" has a gorgeous tune to it, superbly sung by Andrea and Ajeesh, the winner of Airtel Super Singer 2009. A striking melody with a mind-blowing orchestration and scintillating interludes, that showcase Yuvan's versatility.

"Kadhal endral" sung by composer himself is a shorter version of "idhu varai". Yuvan, the king of bit songs, proves it again here. This song has an interesting Violin prelude and has soothing keyboard in the background. The peppy title track "Goa" has youthful feel to it with a flawless music arrangement. The club mix version is equally appealing, however, i did not listen to the club mix version as I'm addicted to the original version.

"Ezhezhu Thalamurai", the village, folk'ish track is overwhelming. Yuvan has done an Ilayaraja in this song. The foot tapping thiruvizha song "adida naiyandi" is another IR'ish track with lively orchestration that adds charm. SPB Charan and Yugendhiran have done their part well in this song. The pathos song "Ooru nalla ooru" sung by Ilayaraja isn't that appealing except for the orchestration and the flute interlude that make it worth listening.

Creative hunger Yuvan arrives with the astonishing "Idai Vazhi", one of the most experimental tracks in recent times. A fast paced erotic song with incredibly brilliant orchestration and excellent vocals by Mamta Mohandas and Benny Dayal. The former does it with perfection.

Thanks to Yuvan for bringing the veterans SPB, IR and Chitra together in the peppy song "Valiba va va". The song so beautifully switches to classical music in the second half. The "na na na na" humming that comes in between is hyper-catchy.

Verdict: What an album to start the year! Yuvan starts 2010 with an extraordinary note. Looking forward to more and more.

Regards,
Vinith...

Keywords: Goa songs review, goa music review, yuvan shankar raja, venkat prabhu, ilayaraja, karthik raja, premgi amaren, goa album.

Yuvan doing an Ilayaraja

This is a song review. I'm writing about a song that had an impact on me over the past two days. The interesting part here is that the album has not come out yet. Likely to be released this week.

Song: Ezhezhu Thalamuraikum
Genre: Village Folk
Movie: Goa
Composer: Yuvan Shankar Raja
Lyrics: Gangai Amaren
Singers: Yuvan, Karthik Raja, Venkat Prabhu, Premgi Amaren, Bhavatharini

The song is all about the musical family. Lyrics of Gangai Amaren proudly tells us about their native village 'Pannaipuram', mom 'Chinna thaayi", elder bro "Pavalar" and obviously about their music which has been an inseparable part of their family. There is nothing new in this song except the freshness and the feel that it gives you. There have been surfeit of songs of this type from Ilayaraja over the past three decade. If someone listens to this song without any idea about the composer, he would certainly end up concluding that this is by Ilayaraja. Yes. Yuvan has almost done an Ilayaraja here. Yet, this song stands out for some reasons.

The idea of making the siblings sing this song definitely showcases the togetherness in them. Lyrics and rendition are the best part of this song.

A song that should not be missed, especially if you are an Ilayaraja or Yuvan fan. You may listen to the song online here.

Waiting for the full album.

Regards,
Vinith.

Keywords: Goa, Venkat prabhu, Yuvan Shankar Raja, Goa promo song, yezhezhu thalamurai song, gangai amaren, family song, premji, premgi amaran, bavatharani, karthik raja,

A Musical '2009'

Unlike 2008, 2009 has turned out to be a musical year with back to back musical hits. I believe there have been atleast 20+ good albums. I really could not arrive at a list of 10 good songs as there were too many good songs. A tough job indeed.

Here is my list of Top 10 songs that I most visited, of 2009. Not in any order.

1. Kannil Parvai (Nan KAdavul) by Ilayaraja
2. Chinnansirisu (Kungauma Poovum Konjum Puravum) by Yuvan Shankar Raja
3. Oru Vetkam Varudhe (Pasanga) by James Vasanthan
4. Aval Appadi (Angadi Theru) by Vijay Antony
5. Kannil Thagam theerumo (Achchamundu Achamundu) by Karthik Raja
6. Pemmane (also Thaai thindra Manne. Aayirathil Oruvan) by G V Prakash kumar
7. Yogi theme in Sarangi (Yogi) by Yuvan Shankar Raja
8. Mella Oorndhu (Nandhalala) by Ilayaraja. -
9. Thuli Thuli (Paiya) by Yuvan Shankar Raja
10. Katrukulle (Sarvam) by Yuvan Shankar Raja

Few other songs that were worth listening.

* Azhagai Pookudhe (Ninaithaale Inikkum) by Vijay Antony
* Nan Pogiren (Naanayam) by James Vasanthan
* Kooda Varuviya (Valmiki) by Ilayaraja
* Padhi Kadhal padhi mutham (Modhi Vilayadu) by Hariharan, Leslie
* Vizhi Moodi (Ayan) by Harris Jeyaraj
* Om Shanthi Om (Muthirai) by Yuvan Shankar Raja

Smashing soundtracks of the Year:

1. Paiya, Sarvam by Yuvan Shankar Raja.
2. Nan Kadavul by Ilayaraja.
3. Aayirathil Oruvan by GV Prakash Kumar.

Best Music Director of the Year:

Undoubtedly, it is Yuvan Shankar Raja for delivering albums almost every month with quality ranging from average to mind-blowing. He is ready with hands full of projects to repeat the magic in 2010 as well.

Top non-tamil songs that I have listened to:

* 'Hindi' Masakkali from Delhi 6 by AR Rahman
* 'Telugu' Anakoledenadu and Seheri from Oy (Oye) by Yuvan Shankar Raja
* 'Hindi' Mudhi Mudhi from Paa by Ilayaraja
* 'Hindi' Emosnal Atyachar from Dev D by Amit Trivedi


Share your opinion.

Regards,
Vinith....

Keywords: top tamil songs of the year, best music of 2009, best music director of 2009, list of top tamil music, top 10 music, hindi, telugu

Theeradha Vilayattu Pillai music is Brilliant and Innovative, yet, Average

With a mysterious prelude and astonishing vocals of Vijay Yesudoss and Vinaitha, 'En Asai ethiraliye' easily becomes the pick of the album along with Poo Muthal sung by the composer himself. The mysterious feel continues to haunt in the former while interesting lyrics and cool rendition from Yuvan elevate the latter. Yuvan clearly brings the attitude of a playboy in this voice.

However, the most innovative track of this album is, "En jannal vandha katre" sung by three female singers. With the same base tune, Yuvan gives three different styles of music to explain the character of each girl in this movie. Starts off with a gorgeous melody (with interesting anu pallavi), that soon changes to a hip-hop kind of song then ends with a rocking kuthu song. The music during the transition of each song is simply brilliant and doesn't affect the flow. That's Yuvan for you!

Despite the brilliant vocals from Ranjith and interesting interludes, the melody "Oru punnagai thaane" fails to make an impact as the main tune is boring and flows aimlessly. You really do not get hooked to the title song even despite it's groovy orchestration.

The short "Introduction" is all about Yuvan's music for this movie. Aah.. This is something new that no one else has tried before. Thumbsup Yuvan.

Overall, a satisfactory album for Yuvan fans. We have to wait and see if our audience will prefer it. Brilliant and innovative. Yet, fails to create a big impact.


Tags: Theeratha vilayattu pillai music review, theeradha vilayaattu pillai songs review, theeradha vilayaattu pillai, yuvan, vishal, thiru, yuvan shankar raja, neetu

Music Review: Paiya - A Yuvan Musical

//Click here for Paiyaa movie review//

Wow............................

Well, this is how I can begin.. I'm so excited after listening to Paiya songs. A beautiful album filled with romantic melodies.

Beautiful Guitar opens up the lilting melody "Thuli Thuli mazhaiyai", so beautifully rendered by the upcoming young talent Haricharan (Yeah. The voice that we heard in "arabu naadE" song). The tune and Na. Muthukumar's lyrics complement each other. 'Sel sel avaludan sel' part is too good in this song and that's the highlight of this song.

"Suthudhe Suthudhe bhoomi" starts off pretty ordinarily but soon picks up and enthralls you as it progresses. What else can I say when there is Karthik? He definitely elevates the song to greater heights. The lines "ra ra ra radhE, radhE, azhagiya raadhE" are sure to be hummed by the audience in the coming days.

"En Kadhal solla" sung by composer himself is another brilliant melody with excellent rhythm. Yuvan, as usual, excels in orchestration particularly in the first interlude. The chorus/humming part that comes mildly in the background in between is addictive. I have not been a big fan of Yuvan's rendition rather I complaint a lot. LOL. But this time, I must say that Yuvan has improved a lot in rendition. He has given a very good feel especially in the charanam parts. Do not miss to observe the way he sings 'Yaarum paarkkamal enai paarkkiren' in the second stanza. Mesmerizing. Touches my soul!

There isn't anything new in "Adada Mazhai da" song. It simply gives you the feel of listening to "Dhavani potta" song. Tried and tested orcehstration. Yuvan simply recycles his earlier works in this. But, the song sounds good and creates a peppy mood. Rahul nambiyar's rendition is too good and Saindhavi's rendition towards the end is another highlight of this song.

The only song that failed to impress me is "Poongatre poongatre" sung by Benny Dayal. Not a bad one though. A passable track with very less innovations.

Overall, Paiya is an instantly likable album. Linguswamy has extracted some excellent melodies from Yuvan. Yuvan, who usually goes overboard in orchestration even for a simple melody has refrained from it in Paiya. Orchestration here is very simple and catchy. The songs are sure shot winner. Barring the few recycling works, the album is very much satisfactory. Go get it. Drench in the rain!

PS: Writing a very detailed review after a long time. This is purely because of the excitement that I got after listening to the songs. Except 'Poongatre" all other songs are in loop for since Saturday. Just cant get me out of this. Very addictive!

PS2: Yeah, I know, some of you may feel that I'm overrating this album. LOL. Just my opinion. At least for next few months I will be madly listening to the songs. Isn't that enough? He... He...

Keywords: Paiya music review, payya, paiyya songs review, paiya yuvan songs, paiya linguswamy karthi album review, yuvan shankar raja paiya.

//Click here for Paiyaa movie review//

Regards,
Vinith.

Music Review: Yogi by Yuvan Shankar Raja

At last the wait ends. Yogi album is out. Soundtrack has 6 tracks in total including two theme music.

Yogi theme in Sarangi is the pick of the album. A brilliant music with wonderful orchestration. Ustad's vocals that comes in between, leaves us haunted. Another amazing number is Yaaradu Yaaro sung by Yuvan himself which has outstanding orchestration with mind-blowing Sarangi interludes and meaningful lyrics by Snehan.

Despite the aversion I have for folk/kuthu songs, I liked the remix (of various old songs) Seermayvum Koovathila, sung by Lyricist Snehan. It's the change in the beats, thappu sound that impressed me. The short "Yogi theme" proves that Yuvan is the king of theme music. Another feather in his cap.

The hero glorifying number Yogi yogi thaan (Ver I and Ver II) is the only track that did not invoke any interest even though they are good orchestration wise. It may take sometime grow I believe.

Overall, Yuvan has given what Yogi needs. Yuvan's idea of using Sarangi as the main instrument in all songs (in BGM also if my guess is right) is laud-worthy. Hats off!

Yogi - A must buy!

Share your thoughts,
Vini...

Keywords: Yogi music review, Yogi songs review, Yogi album, Yuvan shankar raja, snehan song, yogi Ameer, ameer sultan.