Originally published in The Hindu.
Maya nadhi – Kabali (Tamil – Santhosh Narayanan)
Quick – what’s that song where Rajini is as old as a 60 year old and sings a song that signifies his age? Chances are, you’d say, Chittukku sella chittukku (Nallavanukku Nallavan). Or, if you are a true-blue fan, ‘Annan enna’ from Dharmadurai. Now, there’s a strong new contender, and this time, the mood is happier and romantic, unlike the desolate mood of those songs! ‘Thooya narayilum, kaadhal malarudhe’ goes Maya Nadhi, from Kabali, in Santhosh Narayanan’s trademark tune and sound, particularly that violin phrase! It’s good to see the man acknowledge his age oh-so-subtly, without letting go of his image!
Saaluthillave – Kottigobba 2 (Kannada – D.Imman)
Tamil composer D.Imman first made his Kannada debut in 2013 since his songs from Manam Kothi Paravai were used as-is without his knowledge in the film’s Kannada remake, Anjada Gandu (not to be confused with the 1988 Thambikku Endha Ooru Kannada remake of the same name). He fought for credit and got it. Then, some of his Tamil songs from Pandiyanaadu were used with his permission in the Kannada remake, Rudrathandava. Imman finally makes his legitimate Kannada debut with Kottigobba 2 and the soundtrack’s highlight is the lilting and gorgeous melody Saaluthillave. It’s the typical melody Imman reserves for Shreya Ghoshal and she does complete justice to it!
Raaluraga poolamala – Pelli Choopulu (Telugu – Vivek Sagar)
Vivek Sagar made his film composing debut with his band-mate (Hyderabad-based band called Catharsis) Sanjay, in the 2013 film, Race. But his solo outing as composer, Pelli Choopulu, demonstrates adequate promise, despite niggling issues like poorly chosen singers and the odd choice of sounds. Raaluraga poolamala is a case in point for the promise. It’s a captivating mix, layering funky techno sounds over a retro tune sung by Wilson Herald. It’s instantly catchy and head-turning!
Tu jo paas mere – Krsna Solo (Hindi – Indipop)
Hindi composer Krsna has produced some fantastic music in the few films he has been associated with, like Tanu Weds Manu (both parts) and the nobody-knows-what-happened-to-film Cute Kameena. Given his severely sporadic discography, it is interesting to see him steadily producing new music through his own private label, Panoctave India and share them on YouTube. Tu jo paas mere, that has been—in T.Rajendar style—written, sung, composed and video-directed by Krsna Solo (how he credits himself) is the kind of mellow and engaging melody he produces for films too – easy on the ears, and repeat-worthy!
Tumhari berukhi se – Yauwan (Hindi – Sonik-Omi)
Back when celebrated names like Madan Mohan and SD Burman were ruling the Hindi film music scene in the 1960s, an Uncle-nephew combo tried their hand in composing music! The uncle was Master Sonik, and the nephew, Omi (Om Prakash Sonik), who passed away last week. Master Sonik was visually challenged, and the duo had to struggle in abject penury for many years, holding on to their passion for music. They did find their feet in Bollywood, thanks to their stupendous perseverance, and composed for over 125 films! A fairly rare Kishore Kumar song from the 1973 film Yauwan, Tumhari berukhi se, is perhaps a good show of the duo’s potential!
