Tribute to SPB Sir

 Will keep Updating this page paying my respects to the emotion called SPB, An experience called SPB, a Soul called singing connected to all of us. #SPBLivesForever

Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy Audio Review

Movie:                 Sye raa Narasimha Reddy (సై రా నరసింహా రెడ్డి )

Producer(s):       Ram Charan Konidela

Cast:            Chiranjeevi, Nayanatara, Tamanna, Amitabh Bachan, Kicha Sudeep, Vijay Sethupati, and others.

Direction:           Surender Reddy

Music:                Amit Trivedi

Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy is a dream project of Chiranjeevi, produced by his son Ram Charan. it is a Mega project made in different Languages. This is touted as Pan India Movie, with cast including from all languages of Indian Cinema, that includes Big B. Getting released simultaneously in many Indian languages, on 2nd October has created a lot buzz in the market. Cost wise too this is a "Mega Project" as it is estimated that 300 crores are spent on this project.

This movie is inspired by Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy who is a polygar from Kurnool, and this place became heart of conflict with British East India company. Narasimha reddy led the 5000 strong people which fought against British. The story of Narasimha Reddy taken up as dream project of Chiranjeevi, came into hands of Surendar Reddy to project this on the big-screen. With huge cast at his dispose and so much money in the hand, its really an uphill task for the director to make it big and meet expectations of people and also project the history in a right way to reach people. He got a huge help in terms of Paruchuri brothers who contributed to the movie by taking the writing part of it. Art and DOP will be critical for this project and these two departments were given to able hands.

The Music has been given to Amit Trivedi, a Hindi music director originated from Maharashtra, who started his career in 2008 and worked for lot of films and jingles, also a singer. This album consists of 4 songs, 2 songs written by Sirivennela garu, one by Ananth Sriram and the other by Chandrabose. Any Such history based movie in Telugu, the default name that would come to mind is Keeravani to score the music, or even Manisharma, but music by Amit, probably keeping Hindi release in mind. Lets see how the songs of the album are, did they help to the movie or not. 

1. Jaago Narasimhaa jaagore

Singers – Shankar Mahadevan, Haricharan, Anurag Kulkarni

Lyrics – Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry

Backing Singers – Rajiv Sundaresan, Arun Kamath, Suhas Sawant, Rishikesh Kamerkar, Aditi Prabhudesai, Madhura Paranjape, Pragati Joshi & Rucha Padhye

This song should be instantly reaching listeners. Shankar Mahadevan, Haricharan, Anurag Kukarni seems to be right choice for this song. Anurag is slowly taking the space where Tippu or Kk left in Telugu Film music. Sirivennela garu gets 2 of 4 songs, and guess gets the critical songs in the album. He weaves pieces together to connect them to make a beautiful story out of it. All the three singers with power packed Chorus, makes this song a power packed song, and it is one. A good start to the album, which starts pleasantly, takes to the next level with good singing by the three singers. A little care should have been taken in pronouncing and also to keep words intact without breaking them to fit the tune. 

On a side note, there is a huge list of backing singers, unfortunately none of these names sound Telugu, Do we really have no singers that cannot be even used as backing singers?? So many singers are coming out of Paadutaa Teeyaga, what is happening to them??

2) Andam Ankitam

Singers – Vijayprakash, Shashaa Tirupati

Lyrics – Anantha Sriram

Backing Singers – Rajiv Sundaresan, Umesh Joshi, Deepti Rege & Pragati Joshi

This song is not sounding right. Female singer, Vijay are disconnected I guess, Shashaa Tirupati didn't sound good, Tuning didn't suit well with this combo of Vijay and Shashaa, The beats are heavy, Vijay singing is also heavy, but Shashaa singing is contrast, probably thats why this song doesn't appeal well, even though its made grand. The chorus did their part well. But overall this song will not really appeal well. 

3) O…Syeraa

Lyrics – Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry

Singers – Sunidhi Chauhan, Shreya Ghoshal

Backing Singers – Rajiv Sundaresan, Arun Kamath, Suhas Sawant, Rishikesh Kamerkar, Deepti Rege, Pragati Joshi, Arohi Mhatre & Aditi Prabhudesai

Title song written by Sirivennela garu, is so powerful, Sung by Sunidhi and Shreya, both never sounded Telugu'ish. The chorus is really powerful, saying of Oh Syeraa is very good, There is lot of power in the song, heavily orchestrated, backed by good Chorus, the visuals too were good. But the lead voices dont match the rest of the grandeur of the song. Some words written by Sirivennela garu couldn't even be pronounced by these singers. Ignoring lead singers the rest of the song is really well made. It will bring the required patriotic feel to the viewers/listeners. Shreya's voice is feeble compared to the power of the song. Sunidhi could have done lot better with a little bit care on the words. She has the range required for the song, but saying words took away that benefit of her voice. But overall a very well made song, that fits and suits well as title song. 

4) Swaasalona desame

Singers – Haricharan

Lyrics – Chandrabose

Backing Singers – Rajiv Sundaresan, Arun Kamath & Suhas Sawant

Chandrabose writes his usual algorithm based lyrics which revolves around what is about for the country. Haricharan does decent in this song. Chorus is efficiently used again. Situational song in explaining Narasimha reddy? This shows what he did how his life transformed with sacrifices he did in life to make his life for the country. Should be great on the screen and a treat to watch the transformation of Narasimha Reddy's life. Song should bring out the emotion from the people. A decent song made and sung by Haricharan, who brings the emotion rightly and expresses it well. 

Pick(s) of the album: Syeraa, Jaagore

Movies made on history will need a great background score, as the score will need to elevate the scenes. Songs will need be inspiration and emote the elevation properly to get audience connected powerfully to the backdrop of the move. Title song Syeraa leaves a good impression, but female lead singers disappoint which is compensated by Chorus, and Jaagore also instantly gets in, but Andam Anikatam was let down, could have been added little effort. When songs are limited in the album, expectations will be that all the songs should be very well accepted. Swaasalone is a very decent effort with Haricharan doing well in expressing well. Chorus is very well used in the entire album. Overall the album leaves a something missing feeling, probably movie will fill that gap and these songs will make lot of impact after the movie is released. All the best to the entire team who made the life of Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy even after 170+ years, live with us. 

Song of the week - Jaaligaa Jaabilamma

జాలిగా జాబిలమ్మ రేయి రేయంతా

రెప్పవేయనే లేదు ఎందుచేత ఎందుచేత

పదహారు కళలని పదిలంగా ఉంచనీ

ఆ కృష్ణ పక్షమే ఎదలో చిచ్చుపెట్టుటచేత

కాటుక కంటినీరు పెదవులనంటనీకు

చిరునవ్వు దీపకళిక చిన్నబోనీయకు

నీ బుజ్జి గణపతిని బుజ్జగించి చెబుతున్నా

నీ కుంకమకెపుడూ పొద్దుగుంకదమ్మా

సున్ని పిండిని నలిచి చిన్నారిగా మలిచి

సంతసాన మునిగింది సంతులేని పార్వతి

సుతుడన్న మతి మరచి శూలాన మెడవిరిచి

పెద్దరికము చూపె చిచ్చుకంటి పెనిమిటి

ప్రాణపతినంటుందా బిడ్డ గతి కంటుందా

ఆ రెండు కళ్ళల్లో అది కన్నీటి చితి

కాలకూటము కన్న ఘాటైన గరళమిది

గొంతునులిమే గురుతై వెంటనే ఉంటుంది

ఆటు పోటు ఘటనలివి ఆటవిడుపు నటనలివి

ఆదిశక్తివి నీవు అంటవు నిన్నేవి

నీ బుజ్జి గణపతిని బుజ్జగించి చెబుతున్నా

కంచి కెళ్ళిపోయేవే కధలన్నీ

Mr Majnu Audio Review

Movie:            Mr. Majnu ( Mr. మజ్ను )

Producer(s):   BVSN Prasad

Cast:              Akhil Akkineni, Nidhhi Agerwal

Direction:       Venky Alluri

Music:            Thaman SS

Akhil is trying his best to make an impact in Telugu Film Industry. After his disastrous debut, he tried to recover with he second attempt, but it didnt take him where he expected to go. He is trying to hope to get successful with this attempt. Thaman who has changed his ways with recent hit album, scored music and this is something to see whether he made that change in this movie also, or he is what he is. Srimani gets single card on lyrics which is again a rare feat these days. Its been a while to see such in lyrics department. Lets go to the album to see what Thaman did this time. 

Mr Majnu 
Singer(s) - Ramya NSK
Lyrics - Srimani

Thaman and the album starts with the title song describing the hero, Akhil as grandson of ANR and Son of Nagarjuna. And then Srimani tries to add up based on his talent. Both Thaman and the singer (Is it Ramya as per label?) ripped the words apart with inconsistent synchronization between tune and words. Many words gets massacred by the singer. Thaman doesn't miss his flavor of this trademark, and doesn't add auto tuning. thats the grace for this song. Some how not impressed with this song, Thaman tried to be different, but his trademark probably makes this song less appealing, then the singer makes it worse. A song that can be skipped in the album. 

Yemainado
Singer(s) - Armaan Malik
Lyrics - Srimani

Thaman ensures that song represents his changing song making trends. Even though he is not consistent, he is telling, he is changing. The soft stylish melody should make his fans go merry about it. He removes most of his problems in the song making until now, by adding lot of unwanted things to a song, there by succeeding in making this song appeal to listeners. Having said that, there are slight issues that he should take more care to ensure he stays there. Arman Malik does good, but he has the usual problems with non-Telugu singers. He could have done a little better. Srimani did a decent job. Overall a good effort by the team. 

Hey Nenila
Singer(s) - Sruthi Ranjani
Lyrics - Srimani

The moment I said Thaman is changing the song making, but he didn't. He is not able to get away in making a song sound different from any of his earlier songs. The pattern cannot be same unless its a very rare exceptional. His instrumentation of this song is good. Sruthi's singing is decent. However the song should appeal a new song all together, cannot remind. As long as he cannot get out of this, he cannot become successful. With these minor issues of Thaman, this song will appeal and stick to listeners. Thaman had succeeded in making the lyrics of Srimani Listenable. The following of singer is cute. The interludes came out good and overall this song stays there. 

Kopamga Kopamga
Singer(s) - Armaan Malik, Thaman S
Lyrics - Srimani

Armaan Malik has become a choice of Thaman? Two songs for him? not sure why?. His Telugu is not good, so he cannot make a song sound better. His voice is not that great, similar to many singers, Not sure whats his added advantage, He gets off too at few of places, doesn't sound well in many places. Again Thaman did decent job in tuning the song. Srimani writes another decent song, adding his own youthful phrases which he is known for. Another pleasant song from Thaman, he is surprising the listeners, A new look to Thaman, which is good in a way. Not sure where I heard Thaman in this song. 

Naalo Neeku
Singer(s) - Shreya Ghoshal,  Kaala Bhairava
Lyrics - Srimani

Kaala Bhairava getting chances with other music directors is a good thing happened to him. He got the real boost from his family through Baahubali, people are probably cashing in the craze he got. Singing wise he has lot to improve. Hope he is not just limited to few type of songs. Thaman has toned down a lot compared to how he used to make similar songs. Some one really explained what was going wrong with him. Shreya Ghoshal has excellent voice and singing, but has no change in singing Telugu songs, inspite of singing more than a decade, She still sounds alien. Not sure why she never put any effort to sound Telugu. Due to this even though whatever she does, the song just go wasted. However her fans will not care for this and will embrace this song. Kaala Bhairava does what he was asked for. Situational song made as per demand and thats all is needed. Thaman doesn't go overboard and does with good limits set to himself. 

Chiru Chiru Navvula
Singer(s) - Tushar Joshi, Koti Salur, Ramya Behara
Lyrics - Srimani

Srimani has got single card for lyrics. That shows how he is impressing the movie makers. This is a rare feat these days where one song is written by more than one lyricist. He did decent in all the lyrics. But the more they do the more expectations will increase. Glad there is no multi lingual crap like other lyricists who enforce it even though it is not required.  The music makers and lyricists still have the coordination issues, that neither of them are able to sync together to make a song without breaking the word at right place. Not sure who is the root cause for it. But people got used to listening like this so it wont effect them. This song even though lacks freshness in the tune, is still good enough to sound decent. Thaman again gives a well controlled tune and instrumentation.

Pick(s) of the album:  Yemainado, Hey Nenila, Chiru Chiru Navvula

Thaman showed different face of his with Toliprema, then he again showed it with NTR's AVSR, tuning situational songs. He was lacking consistency as he couldn't convince listeners that he is trying to rediscover himself by fixing all his issues that he was talked about. This album should lead to that path of change. He not only fixed few issues, he tried to be different. Whether its Nagarjuna's effect or the director but a good change to be observed in Thaman. If he shows this consistency in coming albums, then he will have better future. But basically there cannot be a road that takes him backwards. He is forced to go only this route. Akhil gets a decent album, which should lead him towards success if the movie is made good. 

Vinaya Vidheya Rama Audio Review

Movie:            Vinaya Vidheya Rama ( వినయ విధేయ రామ )
Producer(s):  D.V.V.Danayya
Cast:              Ramcharan, Kaira Advani, Prashanth, Vivek Oberoi, Esha Gupta
Direction:      Boyapati Srinu
Music:            Devi Sri Prasad

Ramcharan had tremendous success for his past two movies, ( Dhruva and Rangasthalam ) and is looking for a hat-trick.  Kaira Advani who acted in Bharat Anu Nenu is pairing up with Ramcharan in this movie. Boyapati Srinu know for mass movies is now setting up a combination with Ramcharan so that it would be a different movie for Ramcharan. DSP and Boyapati or DSP and Ramcharan had been successful in their earlier combinations and now all the three are coming together, so expectations are automatically set high. Movie generated enough buzz and the teasers have been telling what this combination have to offer. The singles of this music album have been out and the response from fans as well as others have been out. So lets see the entire album at one go. Srimani off late has been seeing quite often in almost all movies and he has been showing his contribution very clear. In this movie, if not for one song, could have got single card as lyricist. DSP used his routine singers with exception of Not having Sagar and he replaced by Kalabhairava. Songs are as detailed below. 

1. Thandaane Thandaane
Singer(s): MLR Kartikeyan
Lyricist: Shreemani

A typical DSP trademark song, A good start, soft melody with emoting right. Kartikeyan does good job. Starts again with a DSP mark signature in an album. The violin sets the mood of the song and Kartikeyan continues that with his apt singing. He tries to add some deviations here and there. Shreemani ( as named in the label ) tries to explain the crux of the movie. Even though the song is about "Anandam" there is an inherent pinch of sadness both in the tune as well as the words of the song. Definitely trying to explain the story. The words are carefully written to say that few people who have different beginning had come together. A good hear from DSP.

2. Thassadiyya
Singer(s): Jaspreet Jasz, MM Manasi
Lyricist: Shreemani

Jaspreet Jasz and DSP tune doesn't offer anything new in this song, where both get routine. I though Manasi might get limited to repeating few words throughout the song but she gets to contribute. Shreemani got major pie of the movie by getting to write 4 of 5 songs in this album. He wrote different lyrics for the first song, gets routine here too as he doesnt have much to offer. Seems like a dance bit that is designed to show the talent of Ramcharan. A perfect routine song, which will not appeal listeners much. 

3. Ek Baar
Singer(s): DSP, Ranina Reddy
Lyricist: Shreemani

DSP tried to sing this song differently but not to tune it separately. Probably he might have thought that is enough to make a song sound different. Again a song that is purely to showcase dance talent of Ramcharan, so the song gets to give what is asked for. Shreemani too caters to the song by filling the words adding some rhyming here and there. DSP adds lots of sounds apart from standard beats that goes throughout the song. Ranina Reddy might have sung lot of similar songs its a piece of cake walk for her. Everything in the song is aimed whether its foot tapping beats, or singing. Probably this song is for Ramcharan fans. 

4. Rama Loves Sita
Singer(s): Simha, Priya Himesh
Lyricist: Shreemani

Another run of the mill song from DSP. Simha and Priya even dont help to this out and out routine song. Shreemani I guess is becoming another Ramajogayya who is becoming expert to fill words for these kind of songs. Simha's voice doesn't really suite at some places in the song. The movie title has Rama, so the song too goes around that name. Whether female lead's name is Sita or not, but it doesn't matter. Seems like a song that has nothing great to mention about. 

5. Amma Naanna
Singer(s): Kaala bhairava
Lyricist: Ramajogayya Sastry

Kaala Bhairava is getting more songs to sing and that too outside of Rajamouli's family is something to note. But he is getting more of similar songs. However the singing of this song is not convincing. His effort is not seen in this song. As in the first song, which tells about few people coming together, this seems to be an pathos extension of the song. DSP adds violin which helps the song, but not the singer who could have done a lot better. Story oriented song, that might appeal on the screen. DSP tries to set this song according to the story and situation demanded by director but probably could have done a little better.

Pick(s) of the album: Thandaana, Amma Naanna 

During audio release of one the earlier movie that Boyapati and DSP worked together, Boyapati said, he had extracted great music from DSP, thats why it was a great hit. Of course that comment didnt go well with DSP who condemned on the stage right away. Seems like neither the movie director extracted the music from the music director, nor the movie didnt demand a great music, that DSP had nothing much to offer in this album. Out of the two picks one is good, which is Tandaana, and Amma Naanna could have been better and rest are run of mill songs from DSP. Few heros doesnt need music to elevate their movies and Ram Charan is one of them. So its all upto hero and movie director to take it from here. 

NTR Biopic Audio Review

Movie:            NTR Biopic ( Kathanayakudu, Mahanayakudu )

Producer(s):  Nandamuri Balakrishna
Cast:   Nandamuri Balakrishna, Vidya Balan, Nandamuri Kalyan Ram, Rana Daggubati

Direction:      Krish Jagarlamudi
Music:            MM Keeravani

NTR  ( Nandamuri Taraka Ramarao ) is one name that needs introduction to Telugu people no matter where they live nor their age. The only name in Telugu history that got that unique identity. Whether they hate or like it, the name cannot go without a mention in any person's life. It is one of the rarest name that is blessed to be synonym of Telugu person's identity. As rightly said by Keeravani, people have so much got emotionally connected to this greatest soul that is blessed to live on earth as Telugu person. They identify him as Lord, that even if God show up to the Telugu person, they might reject since God doesn't look like NTR. Whether its Rama or Krishna or matter any God, people believe that they look like NTR. Thats the power of this person and no one in Telugu history can come close to such personality. People who like him can never forget him in their entire life, people who worship him, will worship him for ever. 

What he did to get there no one can try to understand, its just the blessings based on his Karma that he was what he was. He became synonym for many many characters which seems to be impossible for any normal human being. Thats what he attained the status in Telugu people's heart. There cannot be another NTR in entire modern Telugu film history.

Making a biopic of such personality can never be possible. What can be shown might be few glimpses of the history which he has been part of. This will be a great uphill task for whoever want to attempt. Balakrishna his one of the able son, thought of this project has been completely dedicated to this project and his association with Krish has been so far outstanding. Krish has a knack of presenting the history in best possible way he can. He always is supported by good technical team as well. The trailer has been appealing, the performances are well received, the dialogs by Burra Sai Madhav and Keeravani on music for sure are good support. 

NTR had played different roles in his life, one as Super natural Hero the Kathanayakudu on the film screen and the greatest Leader in politics which is Mahanayakudu. Krish telling these two stories separately is a great thought. Even NTR never mixed up both, so presenting them as separate entities is definitely good choice. Now there can be haters for Mahanayakudu but there cannot be such thing called hating for the Kathanayakudu part of his life. He is for sure the most revered personality of modern Telugu history.  

So tribute to him, presenting him on screen is one part and providing music to such personality is another challenge. There is no one other than Keeravani in current Telugu Film Industry can do it effectively. The music reaching and depicting such personality is mere impossible, but even reaching to some level is fine. And the lyrics should be so much powerful that any word depicting him will appear to be less only. Lyrics department had to be really powerful to reach the magnanimity of such personality. 

Lets get into the album. This album has 4 songs for Kathanayakudu and 3 songs for Mahanayakudu.. In Kathanayakudu, one of the song has two versions, so it can be said there are 3 each for each version. Lyricists team consists of Keeravani himself, his father Siva Datta, Dr Ramakrishna and Sirivennela garu. They wrote two songs each distributing the songs between themselves.

Regarding singers, I really miss SP Balasubrahmanyam's name in the album as he had contributed so much to NTR. Mainly when SPB can still sing exceptionally well, he should gave got at-least one song, that way even SPB would have got a tribute. However album comes out, this will be a missing point.

                                Kathanayakudu

1. Kathanayaka

Singer(s): Kailash Kher

Lyrics: K Siva Dutta, Dr, K. Ramakrishna

Can words describe the greatest film personality? Can words explain what he has done as actor, Can a tune make some one understand. Probably yes, probably no.. This song makes a very good attempt of it. Two lyricists combined could do the required. This song is well written to explain the Kathanayaka part of NTR. Based on the characters he portrayed rather lived in them. The words are carefully weaved to depict what an actor NTR was. Given NTR who gave life to many mythological characters, the words tell exactly the same. 

The song starts with a nice periodical tune and gets to high voltage. Seeing Kailash Kher name in this song I was little skeptical about his pronunciation and singing, but he did exceptionally well. Its indeed a pleasant surprise. Thanks to Krish, Keeravani for taking care of the song well. As I said for Mahanati, a tribute has to be at a higher level when the personalities are at a higher level. Here this song is really huge and grand. It gives a glance of the career of Legend. Probably fans might get nostalgic and get into tears.The attributes given to NTR in the start of the song who completed more than 300 career films and non-stop successful travel is amazing. The song for sure makes one feel how magnanimous NTR was not by just pure physical appearance but also his perfect appearance in those characters like Rama, Ravana, Karna, Duryodhana, be any mythological character. Also explains how he performed and how spectators could move with those characters. As I said words are very apt to bring the glory of NTR. Jayaho NTR,, Jaya Jayaho NTR will be that the listeners keep saying after the song is complete. 

2. Venditera Dora

Singer(s): MM Keeravani

Lyrics: MM Keeravani

A situational song, wrote and sung by Keeravani himself. As mentioned in the song, during the cyclone in the Diviseema where NTR took lead to help the people suffered by the Uppena that ruined many lives. He took Jole and got the funds from people and helped a lot with ANR and other movie actors. His contribution to Diviseema Uppena was quite notable. Probably thats why this made into the movie. As situational song, Keeravani wrote and sung to get the effect. Probably this song sung by either SPB or Yesudas would be a real tribute, but given Keeravani himself a great fan of NTR, he took the opportunity. The plight of the people who got effected is explained in the song. A song will have more impact when seen on the big screen.

3. Bantureeti Koluvu

Singer(s): K.S. Chitra, Srinidhi Tirumala

Lyrics: Sirivennela Seetaramasastry

Starting with Tyagaraya kruti, it turns out to be probably a song for Basava Tarakam, wife of the legend NTR. Even though the first line is from the kruti, sirivennela garu fills the rest of the song with his words. Chitra garu renders it so perfect that we will keep listening to it and  would want that it never ends. Keeravani who is expert in modifying the carnatic kruti's, makes sure that when modified the flavor is not missed, and yet appear perfect carnatic kruti. Can we ask more from this song? Sirivennela, Chitra, keeravani,, what a good combination?  Added to it Keeravani composed to the core flavor of carnatic music. We wish this song had 2 more charanams. 

4. Kathanayaka

Singer(s): Srinidhi Tirumala, Ramya Behara, Mohana Bhogaraju

Lyrics: K Siva Dutta, Dr, K. Ramakrishna

After listening to the first version of Kailash Kher who leaves an impression on to the listeners, this appears a lighter intensity song. Yet this song stands on its own. Song goes so well, that we can hear many versions of this song. Keeravani composes such a way that this song will keep haunting. Even though people while listening cannot see the visuals, they sure can imagine how the song will be on screen. There is such a grandeur in this song. A perfect tribute to the all time great of the movie field.

                              Mahaanayakudu

1. Ramanna katha

Singer(s): K.S.Chitra, Suneeta

Lyrics: MM Keeravani

Tuned in the style of Lava kusa song, "vinudu vinudu ramayana gaadha", Keeravani tried to explain the life of NTR, focusing on his political career. Somehow I felt this song didnt create that great impact probably after the powerful songs in kathanayakudu. Probably the song goes flat and in simple narrative style. Chitra, Suneeta were not heard with their voice. They get lost like in Chorus. They could have given more to each individually so that they could have got heard. Interlude reminds us of different songs as well. So probably thats why this song leaves us mixed feeling after the song is complete. 

2. Chaitanya Ratham

Singer(s): Kalabhairava, Keeravani, Keerti Sagatiya, Sai Shivani

Lyrics: Sirivennela Seetaramasastry

Chaitanya Ratham, the vehicle that NTR traveled across Andhra Pradesh after launching the party where his son Hari Krishna was the driver for the entire tour that lasted for many months. This has been critical phase of NTR's life where he did interact with people and they found him to be their savior. Krish had to use this in his movie without any doubt. Sirivennela infuses the words that had inspired the people and the leader himself. The situation when NTR made the political career was right time and people with open arms embraced him. Sirivennela right says this thru his words. This song probably on screen covers the entire Chaitanya ratham tour of NTR. When this song creates as the impact that the ratham created, probably not. This song depicts various moods probably to depict the same. I hear more pathos than positive energy that people had looking at the ratham. Not knowing the background in the movie might be the reason for me feeling the mismatch. Lets see on the screen. Singers are fine as the tune. The song can be more enjoyed knowing how Krish has picturized this song?

3. Rajarshi 

Singer(s): Sarat Santhosh, Mohana Bhargava, Kalabhairava, Keeravani, Srinidhi Tirumala

Lyrics: K Siva Dutta, Dr, K. Ramakrishna

This song starts with Adi Sankaracharya written Atma Shatakam or Nirvana shatakam. But how this is related to NTR is a question to watch in the movie. NTR takes out the regular clothing and choses Kashayam to be the color of his dress when he takes political route. Did Atmashatakam make him to realize and take this route not sure. This song not sure whether has created so impact like the kathanayaka song. Probably the lack of clarity of the song makes one wonder? So many singers sang this song but it didn't create that great impact. But for sure leaves a mystery. A powerful singing would have helped this song, None of the singers could be powerful as they could be. Could be another situational song, might help after seeing it on the screen. The percussion was strong which I guess have helped the song.

Pick(s) of the album:  Kathanayaka ( both versions ), bantu reeti, Rajarshi

Making an album for a legends like NTR is extremely difficult, No matter how great it is, it will fall short. I guess the same happened in this album as well, as the expectations would be that it should be the best. Krish definitely has a very good taste and with good technicians in hand, given the situations, he did his best, but leaves some incomplete feeling as it could be a little more better. But if we keep all these aside, its a great effort by the team. The kathanayaka song summarizes the career, the bantureeti song brings in basavatarakam of his life, and the rajarshi outlines the remaining of his life. So indeed the life is said and the summary is given. Now its upto Krish to show the legend once again on the screen and make his fans across the globe revisit him live. Hope and wish he does that. 

Aravinda Sameta Audio Review

Movie:            Aravinda Sametha Veera Raghava ( అరవింద సమేత వీర రాఘవ )
Producer(s):  S Radhakrishna
Cast:              Tarak, Pooja Hegde, Jagapathi babu, Sunil
Direction:      Trivikram Srinivas
Music:            SS Thaman


1. YEDA POYINADO 
Singers - Nikhita Srivalli, Kailash Kher, Penchal Das
Lyrics - Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry, Penchal Das 

Sirivennela garu and Penchal Das, has been part of lyrics for this song. We have seen this type of lyrics with combination of writers earlier too. Here there is a little difference I guess.If the unpolished Diamond is Penchal Das, the polishing to make the diamond glow is done by Sirivennela garu. Overall, this song proves what Telugu literature is capable of. Sirivennela garu and Penchal Das explained the song and how the song starts with "Ram", ( the beejaksharam and the words coming there after rhyming to "Ram").  Penchal Das shows the power of Telugu in words as well as power of rural folk in the voice as well. His voice has that rustic beauty of the village which is sincere. There are many notable phrases in the song which will make one think.

Coming to the song/singing perspective, Thaman starts this song with a violent silence a total surprise from Thaman. However there are shades of other songs there after probably an inspiration. The voice of Nikhita is not heard quite well, clear and loud, her voice is shadowed by over powered instruments. These kind of songs, voice should be the clear winner. He did take that care when penchal das was singing, but Nikhita's voice would have been more powerful, Sivamani's percussions are class as always. I wish Thaman could have used the percussion more in interludes. A little bit consistency would have been better, but cant ask more from Thaman. He almost nailed it to bring the mood of the song, with Penchal Das adding not only value, but he brought the soul to the song. A perfect song for a possible perfect situation in the movie, probably well designed by Trivikram. Thaman must be commendable for taking care of both the song and its lyrics.  

2. ANAGANAGANAGA
Singer - Armaan Malik
Lyrics – Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry

Thaman has a habbit of starting a song prelude on different note, and the song on a different note. He has done this quite many times. Here too he does the same. Armaan Malik as any other singers, have tough time singing a Telugu song. Thaman who is more of sound based, wants variety voice for each song, probably opted to him. Otherwise there is no reason. The interesting part of the song is Sirivennela gari lyrics, all Thaman has to do is go with the flow of lyrics. Not sure why the female voice was not given credit in the song. Even though its a pakka commercial duet, a routine, the choice of words by Sirivennela garu makes him miles a part. The song, tuning as such there are no issues, except for the singer who couldnt say few words properly. The violin stands out in this song, Thaman has really used it effectively. The song even though routine, the lyrics adds a lot to the beauty of the song.

3. PENIVITI
Singer - Kaala Bhairava
Lyrics – Ramajogayya Sastry 

Now comes the much appreciated, talked about song in social media. Kaalabhairava who got name from the Bahubali-2 song, got to sing this song. Thaman again delivers one of the most emotional song heard in recent times. He tunes it as best as he can. Kaalabhairava's voice too is very apt to this song even though he was feeble at few place. 

This comes as 2nd situational song, and the song says it all. The tune, the voice and words all go well together to bring a perfect emotional song that should connect everyone who listens it. Thaman doesn't deviate from his style of song making where its seen in the interludes. He takes it to a pitch after the charanam ends and goes from there to design the interludes. He does it exactly the same, but without his usual additions, so it is heard very natural. Thaman has a habbit of complicating the song unnecessarily, I would have written many times in past reviews suggesting sometimes he needs to keep it simple. This is perfect example, how simple can take song to next level. He adds a nice western flavor in the second interlude. 

Ramajogayya sastry needs a special mention, to use few words in the song that are becoming rare to hear these days. He was able to bring the emotion thru words. He does a commendable job.

On the other side, a small observation. This song seems to be an emotion of lady, who has so much pain in the heart missing her husband. A koyila(cuckoo bird ) is known for joy, and ecstasy, A song in pain might not sound as pleasant as cuckoo bird.  Cuckoo bird singing has "Maadhuryam", where as we dont search madhuryam in pain. 

Not sure as we hear a cuckoo bird who usually sings during the aggressive growth season matches the situation here other than comparing the singing perspective. I might not be in sync with what lyricist thought writing the song, neither the situation, so just listening to the song, cannot probably think right in the context. 

4. REDDY IKKADA SOODU 
Singers - Daler Mehndi, Anjana Soumya 
Lyrics - Ramajogayya Sastry

Trivikram has a habbit of introducing one of golden era songs thru his movies. This time he chooses the some from "Sri krishnarjuna Yuddam" in the start of the song. He uses the song as is in the voice of S Varalakshmi garu. ( music by Pendyala Garu ). Switching gears from a  classic song to this age song, we see how we transformed in music. Probably this will tell where we have reached. How we came sound based than melody based. Now coming to the song, did everyone relax after working hard on other songs? Everone came back to their routine. Be it Thaman or Ramajoggayya. Anjana Soumya is notable in this song. He unique voice makes difference in the song. Daler does his usual stuff. 

Pick(s) of the album:  Peniviti, Yeda Poyinado, Anaganaganaga

Trivikram with Agnaathavaasi, faced a life time failure and how has pressure to deliver and comeback to show what he is known for. Then Tarak who is doing good with different selection of scripts, needs to continue that path. Thaman on the other hand is showing great variety these days with few albums showing where he is heading to. This album he got rid of auto-tuner, got in Penchal Das, Kalabhairava, he should have avoided Armaan Malik. This album consists of two situational songs, and two routine commercial songs. Trivikram's movie having 4 songs shows this is a story intense movie. The two situational songs are intense too. This movie should give a lot of scope to Tarak to emote. Hope he succeeds and give Trivikram a much needed comeback. Thaman scoring to what is required is in right track, hope he continues in for his upcoming movies as well. 

Mahanati Audio Review

Movie:            Mahanati (మహా నటి )
Producer(s):  C. Ashwini Dutt
Cast:              Keerthy Suresh,Dulquer Salmaan, Naga Chaitanya,Samantha,Vijay Devarakonda
Direction:      Nag Aswin
Music:            Mickey J Meyer


1. Mahanati
Singer(s): Anurag Kulkarni
Lyrics: Ramajogayya Sastry

Mickey starts with a terribly made song. Mahanati Savitri gaaru is absolute everest in Telugu Filmy industry. When a song has to be made as a tribute to her, it has to sound Telugu, There should be no second option to that. The singing is very bad. The tune is also disappointing. The way Telugu words are said is horrible to listen. I am pretty harsh as the lyrics has "Mana Telugu" and this song doesn't sound Telugu at all.  Surprised to see the singer faltered at few places. The care that needs to be taken in making a Tribute to Such an actress is not there. Not knowing the background in the movie where this song comes may be the reason that the lyrics sound pretty ordinary. On the top the singer singing the words added to make words sound pretty ordinary. Again RJS focused on praasa in most of the song, instead of writing something different. Totally disappointing song in all aspects. 

2. Aagipo Baalyama
Singer(s): Ramya Behara
Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry

Tuned and sung in yesteryear backdrop, this song should take to yesteryear. Sounds like few songs in those days. Ramya Behara was able to bring in that feel, but couldn't sustain throughout the song. She could have elevated the song. but with few issues here and there ( like paatalo raagama) due to lack of consistency, she doesn't standout. Given an excellent chance she missed it. Anyways the steering control of lyrics came to Sirivennela garu is itself a good feeling. At-least we dont have to worry about lyrics and focus lyrics instead of focusing on singers and Mickey J Meyer. Its a better made song than the first song. A huge jump for sure. 

3. Mooga Manasulu
Singer(s)s: Shreya Ghoshal, Anurag Kulkarni
Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry

Sounds like soft romantic melody, with Sirivennela garu penning the lyrics, all Mickey J Meyer needed to do is to make sure the lyrics are heard. He added a little bit additional added flavors that took off the softness from the song. The extravaganza was not required at all. He could have kept is very simple and let the lyrics talk. He didn't do that so this song lost it basic characteristics, which should be a soft romantic melody. Anurag was extra cautious to sing this song, and Shreya's voice was lost in instruments. Well this song will leave a mixed feeling. Whoever like that additional extravaganza will like this song for sure. 

4. Sada Nannu
Singer(s): Charulatha Mani
Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry

Once again if this song doesn't click, its Mickey's fault as his tuning and words didn't match due to the breaks he got and words flow doesn't match. Seems like he extended one of his earlier songs. Anyways. this song will be a treat for just the lyrics and the power of traditional tune. How they make one mesmerize irrespective of issues one can inject into song whether its tuning or singing, the core cannot be disturbed. Sirivennela gari words in this song are like pearls in the sea. How can one dive deep and gather them, they will get that many. His most of the songs are in the form of questions, if some one can get those questions right, they will have fantastic feel left behind. Its really huge question to everyone, how can he succeed doing this repeatedly over 35 years. Charulata Mani being a renowned carnatic singer, has rendered it what she is been known for. However at some some places she brings in Tamil flavor into the song even though that doesnt matter. Anyways Sirivennela gari lyrics, classical/traiditional style of song making and a classical singer singing this song, what else we can ask for? In such a magnanimous scenario, small issues wont be even visible.  

5. Chivaraku Migiledi
Singer(s): Sunitha
Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry

Chivaraku Migiledi probably during the climax of the movie to depict the ending of Mahanati Savitri gaaru. Once again Sunita and Mickey falter in making it grand. Sunita with her over expressive and not so comfortable singing, doesn't impress. She struggles at high pitch too. There is lot missing in this song. Doesn't bring correct emotion too. Sunita was clearly lost somewhere in the song. A short song which doesn't impress anyone. 

Pick(s) of the album:  Sadaa Nannu, Aagipo Baalyama

A lot will be expected when a movie is made on Mahanati Savitri gaaru, whose name attracts lot of express for her contribution to Telugu cinema, the legendary who has no match, skills that are unparalleled, who can emote just with eyes, perfect definition of an actress with beauty and so on. One can explain for ever about her. Music for a movie like that cannot be anything lesser that doesn't match her.  One or two songs doesnt work to match her name. All of them have to be perfectly made, and this album stands very very sub-standard just that it couldn't match the name. Hope this short coming is made up in the movie making. Having said that, any attempt to make a biopic of the legendary is commendable, and the entire team will need support just for their passion to make this movie. All the best to the team.

Rangasthalam Audio Review

Movie:            Rangasthalam ( రంగస్థలం )
Producer(s):  Naveen Yerneni, Y. Ravi Sankar, Mohan Cherukuri

Cast:              Ram Charan, Samantha Akkineni,Aadhi Pinisetty,Jagapati Babu

Direction:      Sukumar
Music:            Devi Sri Prasad

1. Yentha Sakkagunnaave
Singer: Devi Sri Prasad
Lyrics: Chandrabose

Sukumar has always been top notch director for selecting right songs for his movies. And saying DSP as his soul, both sync so well that whenever they are in such sync, the output will be these type of songs. This song can easily be said as one of best made songs in recent times, whether its in musical sense or lyrics wise. However any brand new singer whose voice is like the voice who sang the starting alap of the song "Seetamma vakitlo sirimalle chettu" type voice would have made this song live for ever. 

DSP has got the right mood of the song, but he has lot of limitations either singing, or pitching or expressions. The starting guitar beats are perfect setting either for the song or the pitcurization. The beats and guitar go hand in hand for a while and DSP start is also very good. The problem comes only when he elevates the pitch. The chorus sounds a lot better. Not sure why Chandrabose writes everything in slang except for "sakkagunnave", I expected "Enta sakkangunnave". At some places, DSP was not able express properly. Actually even though his comparisions are fine, he reminds me of Vairamuttu, he is known a lyricist with formula. Like Kannuku kaatuka andam song, he finds one phrase and with that formula, he keeps writing which all are beautiful. Just as a coincidence, I felt Chandrabose followed the same route. Not to limit this song, but the entire song is comparison on the same lines. 

Very few songs these days touches the heart. May be due to loud noise, repeated tunes, singers messing up entirely or bad lyrics with mixing other languages. This one sure does. Reason is tune and lyrics are written close to Telugu nativity. The second interlude for example is perfectly made. Just imagining the beauty of Godavari, or a village and listening to the interlude makes one feel nostalgic. The beats that accompanying the interlude are so soft that doesn't disturb the feel. This is what all DSP and Sukumar are about. Chandrabose had to just cater there needs to get fame for himself. He easily recovered some damage of his image with this lyrics. While listening to this song and enjoying, if each time the listener thinks that how this song sounded without DSP, thats not their fault. Just saying :) :) 

2. Ranga Ranga Rangasthalaana

Singer: Rahul Sipligunj
Lyrics: Chandrabose

Rangasthalam is the stage for drama. Our life is nothing but drama, where we dance to the tunes of destiny. On a bigger canvas, yes we all are artists performing our characters in the drama directed by director called the invisible Supreme Self. Chandrabose again gets the formula based lyrics by telling each instrument we use is coming from one or other God/Goddess. Basically telling we are not capable of acting on our own and we cannot control anything in this world. For enacting this drama, yes we dont come prepared. We just be there and everything happens on its own. That has been told very well in the song. And no bigger drama is there without reference of Ramayanam and MahaBharatam. However "padi talalu unnavadu Ravanudu, chedu talapu leni vaadu ramudu", comparison doesn't sound very well. 10 heads doesn't mean one will have bad thoughts. Chandrabose might have gone with praasa for tala, talapu. A different comparison would have clicked very well. But who cares. The references are nicely tied up in this song. Chandrabose succeeds in that aspect. Also vinapadettu kaadu, kanapadettu kottandi, is very apt for the movie, where lead is more comfortable seeing than hearing. Well said. 

DSP continues his magic with this song taking help from Rahul instead of singing himself. Again the beats are perfect, the singing is much better. Rahul mixes the slang at some places and non-slang at places written by Chandrabose, very well. The interludes are typical village beats. More heard in southern part.  This song gels well for a stage play scenario, the dungroo is heard in few hindi songs, but thats ok, it goes well too. 

3. Rangamma Mangamma
Singer: M M Manasi
Lyrics: Chandrabose

Now comes the typical DSP, who is best not only at melodies, but these type of songs. This song will keep everyone on toes. Chandrabose goes back to what he is known best for. Oorko bettaduuuuu, is typical DSP style of extending. Manasi's voice kind of suited the style of the song. The song aimed at masses as the lyrics say so. Sometimes Chandrabose doesn't write it with inherent meanings. Of-course he reaches his goal though. The complains from female lead can be told with subtle meanings but Chandrabose has a different style of writing such songs.  DSP weaves magic in the song, with his typical style of tuning this song. This song will be another feather in cap for DSP. He made is so appealing to mass, that they will embrace it right away.

4. Aa Gattununtaava

Singer: Shiva Naagulu
Lyrics: Chandrabose

When there is a confusion among people that colludes to choose between the right and wrong, this songs comes into picture. This is typical way of explaining people in villages how to make right choice. Chandrabose even though goes the formulatic approach, he uses that effectively to explain what is in offering between the good and bad, so that it will be easy to understand.  However he uses words Baddamu, just for Abaddam, even though its not opposite like other words. Kallu ki virugudu majjiga, Chandrabose might have meant, if you get drunk and spoilt there, we can set you right with offering butter-milk. Which means even if you are spoilt, we have ways to fix you. Shiva Nagulu shows the prowess what a folk singer can offer. The authentic voice is real strength for this song. The folk song always brings the electrifying power. Its pretty sure this song will remain close to the listeners.

5. Jigelu Rani

Singers: Rela Kumar, Ganta Venkata Lakshmi
Lyrics: Chandrabose

This song brings back the DSP the perfect item song maker. His initial days of item songs were just fantastic, mainly the ones that were offered to Sukumar. He finally gets there after loosing that track. This song is not perfect singing wise, but this is what required for these type of songs, as it sets the mood of village atmosphere, the recording dances, where the song doesn't matter, the atmosphere is more important. The song sets it perfectly. Chandrabose too goes back to his specialty area, writing these kind of songs with great skill. Rela Kumar did very well compared to Venkata Lakhsmi. However she brings the rustic nativity that gels well with song. In the name of different sounds of singers, people go else where. This album proves how singers like Siva Nagulu, Rela Kumar, Venkata Lakshmi can bring authentic Telugu sounds which the industry is missing past decade. 

Pick(s) of the album: Entire album

Its been a while that one had offered a complete hit album. DSP/Sukumar did couple of times, but lately DSP has reduced his offerings to 50% unlike his initial days. This album is hit in entirety much before the movie released and post release this just got better. Hope DSP/Sukumar continue their contribution to music world like this as long as they make moves either together or individually. Hope DSP re-records Enta Chakkagunnave with some different singer just to see how it sounds different.