Lion Audio Review

Movie: Lion ( లయన్ )
Producer: Rudrapati Ramana Rao
Cast: Nandamuri Balakrishna, Trisha Krishnan, Radhika Apte 
Direction: SatyaDev
Music: Manisharma

After roaring success with "Legend", Nandamuri Balakrishna is coming with "Lion" that is slated to be released in May 2015. He is using the same title in English though. Simha seems to be proven lucky to Balakrishna. Need to see whether it makes any difference if it is in English. This film is produced by Rudrapati Ramana Rao under SLV cinema banner. Nandamuri Balakrishna, Trisha, Radhika Apte are in the lead roles. The Movie is directed by debutante Satyadev. Music is handled by Mani Sharma.

The trailers shows yet another action movie from Balakrishna with heavy dialogs aimed at masses. "కొంతమంది కొడితే స్కానింగ్ లో కనపడుతుంది, కొంతమంది కొడితే xray లో కనపడుతుంది, నేను కొడితే హిస్టరీ లో కనపడుతుంది." , "నేను చెయ్యి చాచినప్పుడే షేక్ హ్యాండ్ ఇవ్వాలి చనువిచ్చా అని చంక ఎక్కితే చుట్టాలు చూడటానికి skeleton కూడా ఉండదు" and many more. These kind of dialogs will make his fans go crazy for sure and set the expectations. 

Manisharma who is limited to BGM only these days is providing music for this movie. He scored great BGM for Temper and SVSC. He made many to think why he is not getting chances than the mediocre music we hear these days. The Mass Melody Brahma has always been a perfect fit for Balakrishna Movies scoring roaring hits. The movie team should be appreciated for being confident on Manisharma and giving him another chance. He scored good music for his last movie "Basanti". However this didnt get noticed due to fate of the movie. Lets see if NBK, his fans got what they want from Manisharma the synonym for Mass Melody.

This album consists of 5 songs. Ramajogaiah and Bhaskarabhatla  has written two songs each and Sreemani wrote the other one. This proves that these songs will be out and out mass songs as the lyricists are known for that. The surprise in singers list comes as that Manisharma didn't use many of his standard singers, instead couple of new singers were given chance..

1. One and Only Lion

Singer(s): Rahul Sipligunj, Geeta Madhuri, Pranavi

Lyrics: Ramajogiah Sastry.

One male singer, two female singers. Nari Nari naduma murari in the song is a feast for Balakrishna fans. Two heroines with Lion(NBK) in between and a dance number what else can they ask for? Along with the Hero having confusion to whom he has to look and touch, the audience will have the same confusion regarding which side they have to take when two beauties call them. It will be double dhamaka. ( as per song ). Manisharma provided a template of the mass song from his earlier versions to be on safe side. The interludes appear as heard somewhere. Pranavi and Geeta Madhuri didnt sound right as a combo, even though they were good when heard individually. Rahul was perfect for the song providing right energy. This song is a safe start for Manisharma. Just to prove that he is not out of touch for mass songs.

2. Aakasam

Singer(s): Vijay Prakash, Pranavi, Srinivas Sharma

Lyrics: Bhaskarabhatla Ravi Kumar.

Manisharma trademark song. The female singers sounded very well in the start of the song when they said Dol Baaje. Manisharma provided a beautiful song that he is known for. His instrumentation is good, the rhythm suited well. Vijay Prakash, Srinivas sharma sounded different at different times in the song, not that it is an issue, but consistent voice could have been better. Second interlude mixing khawali, hindustani was a good fit in the song. Bhaskarbhatla wrote a template song for this type of song nothing significant to note. Overall a feel good song. This will for sure click on the screen too, given NBK 's screen presence.

3. Pilla ( super )

Singer(s): Simha Sudhamayi

Lyrics: Bhaskarabhatla Ravikumar

This song is perfect proof of what Manisharma is about. Perfect mass song. This song cannot get any better even though made from modification of yesteryear song. Sudhamayi sounded far better than Simha, who had to struggle at high pitches. But he provided the required energy in the song. Aptly singing in right places. He tried to sing like North Indian singer though. Bhaskarabhatla I guess has written this song within no time as it meets his skill set. Masses will embrace this song very well and of NBK provides his usual stuff, sky is limit.

4. Aisa Ambani Pilla

Singer(s): Sweekar Agasthi, Uma Neha

Lyrics: Sreemani

Yet another Manisharma trademark mass song that moves everyone and make them enjoy. Even though the song is not a refreshing tune, with the auto tuners and electronic sounds that have become songs, this song will be refreshing in that front as being different. Violin is a favorite instrument for many music directors including Manisharma. Sreemani is latest song writer, so he uses router/wi-fi in the song. The tune that accompanies "Aisa" is cool to listen. 

5. Anaganaga

Singer(s):Madhu Balakrishnan

Lyrics: Ramajogaiah Sastry

This song stands tall in term of composition, lyrics and singing in this album. This song is what is Manisharma about. A perfect melody with mass elements. Ramajogaiah after a long time writes a song with minimal foreign to Telugu words (except for chorus). This song is about Krishna, obviously the Bala Krishna. Jai Jai krishna Govinda Hare, Radhe priya gopala hare. is fantastic trademark of Manisharma. He reminds the song from Okkade, though there is no relation to these songs. Just the composer piece. Second interlude sound a little different, not sure what was the problem. Madhu Balakrishnan if we can ignore couple of places did fantastic in this song. This song is instant winner. Not sure how this will be picturized in the movie, but I am sure its going to be a feast for fans. Atleast music lovers will have fun until then.

Pick(s) of the album: Anaganaga, Aisa Ambani Pilla, Pilla(super). 

The rest of the two songs are for Manisharma and NBK fans.

This movie misses couple of powerful songs, or ferocious songs, Goes slow and provides perfect feast for masses. One melody and rest being mass songs, perfect fit for Balakrishna and his fans. Manisharma with every album he gets proves he is not supposed to be forgotten. An out and out mass album with a melody, fans cannot ask more. Manisharma kept his trademark songs intact and provided what exactly is required for the movie. He rocks in BGM anyways, so he has done his part for this movie. Now the rest depends upon the movie director and NBK to see where the movie goes. Getting this type of music itself is hard now a days, other wise music lovers will demand more from Manisharma. Since he himself is getting chances very rare, this would be more than enough for his fans until his next movie comes. They can hear to this album again and again, no issues with that.

OK Bangaram Audio Review

Movie: OK Bangaram (ఓకే బంగారం )
Production: Mani Ratnam ( Madras Talkies )
Cast: Dulquer Salmaan, Nitya Menen 
Direction: Mani Ratnam 
Music: A. R. Rahman 
Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitaramasastry

O Kadhal Kanmani in Tamil has become OK Bangaram in Telugu which is a romantic comedy. Maniratnam after making Kadal ( Kadali ) which was a failure at box office is coming up with this movie that casts Mammooty's son Dulquer Salmaan and Nitya Menen. This movie lead pair was finalized after rejections from many other actors/actress. Finally these two got set as the lead pair. As usual Manirathnam cannot get music done other than AR Rahman, after departing from Ilayaraja. Rahman did provide music for Kadali, but got lost in Telugu due to lyrics got messed up big time and the failure of the movie added up. This movie started only in October last year, but was shot within less time frame. Even Rahman had to compose a song within less time frame to enable shooting of the song. 

After debacle of Kadali, Maniratnam this time gave lyrics of the entire movie to Sirivennela garu. In Tamil Vairamuttu wrote the entire lyrics except for one song which was written by ARR and Maniratnam himself. With ARR, Maniratnam and Sirivennela garu, the expectations on this album were so high that fans cannot accept anything less than super treat. Total 9 songs with one Islamic song

1. "Raara Aatagaada"  

Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitaramasastry

Singer(s): Aaryan Dinesh Kanagaratnam, Darshana, Shashaa Tirupati

Rahman agrees that Song sound takes priority in his music than the words. Sometimes words go for toss with the tunes. As the sound is the one that immediately catches attention. This song has that signature written all over it. Typical Rahmanish tune which strikes the right chord with the audience. Adding Maniratnam's feast this song should rock. Rahman gives a great peppy, energetic song. Perfect song for today's youth. Probably becomes most sung song in coming days. Vechi Unnara gets repeated and is just perfect. In contrast to it the rap gels with Vechi Unnara very well.

 

2. "Aye Amayika"  

Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitaramasastry

Singer(s): Karthik

Without Karthik there cannot be an album from ARR. This song once again proves the power of Karthik singing such songs.  The lyrics are again fantastic. "Nee mounam kooda naa pere ande" "Tittamma Tiya teeyaga" Only Sirivennela gaaru can write such words. A predictable pattern from ARR in this song, but there are places where he takes this song to different level. A fantastic melody from ARR. Sirivennela garu rocks again in this album. He is asset to the album. We cant ask anything more than this.

3. "Maayedho Cheyyava"  

Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitaramasastri

Singer(s): Karthik, Shashaa Tirupati

Its not ChChaeyyava or Chayyavaa, Its Cheyyava.. Anyways ARR covers that up with a different pattern which is all together different and sounds good. The rhythm is entirely fresh, Shashaa should have been better. Karthik as usual rocks. Rahman does entirely different tune adding lot of freshness to the song. Just like that whispered all the way sounds really cool. Karthk sings less in the song but overall completely refreshing tune from ARR.

4. "Mental Madhilo (Male)"  

Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitaramasastry

Singer(s): K. Krishna Chaitanya, Jonita Gandhi

Last movie of Maniratnam was kadali where the lyrics were awfully bad and was not expected from the likes of Maniratnam. Guess Maniratnam might have realized the mistake and look at the lyrics of this song and what difference it can make to the song. This song sounds lot better than even Tamil version. Hats off to Sirivennela garu for such a lovely lryics for lively song. Mental madilo, gantala sadito, tuntari layalo OK ani chelaregali.. Emi chelaregaru saru,, really hatsoff.. Repoddu, maapoddu, ee poddu, naa poddu, em kaadu le choodu chaalleddu kangaaru,  veyyella sankellu veyyala bandhaalu, manakela aa poru OK naa bangaaru ( matching title of movie), for a tune already made, what else can be written matching the story of the movie and the tune. Krishna Chaitanya did a fantastic job ofcourse in the tune some accent was artificially made which is not a big deal with the things that the song gives us. Youth will perfectly embrace this song and will remain on the charts for the rest of the year. ARR's pattern in making of the song is predictable, but the lyrics makes the difference. BTW is it LaiLa or Lai Le? 

 

5. "Yedho Adaganaa"  

Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitaramasastry

Singer(s): Shashaa Tirupati, Sathya Prakash

Being global what ARR can bring to the table, this song is perfect example. He mixes various styles and brings us a fantastic cock-tail. Not deviating from classical but yet carefully adds different colors to bring a rainbow which is a treat to us. In Telugu few places the lyrics and tune dont correlate, but since that lasts very few seconds, wont be noticed much. For example, first time adagana is broke into pieces where singer couldnt keep the flavor of the word. But ARR covers every small issues with his brilliant instrumentation. The male singer was perfect. The female voice was as usual unique the trademark of ARR. He finds voices that suits his tune so well that some times same singers wont sound well outside. Another great treat from ARR for the variety he provided in this song. 

 

6. "Neetho Alaa"  

Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitaramasastry

Singer(s): Karthik, Darshana, Maria Roe Vincent

Rahman has been inspiration for such songs that starts like this, but not everyone is ARR. Thats the difference. ARR proves his class with this song. An anthemic song which is composed fantastically. What a variety, what kind of mix, this is really a great composition from ARR. This could set the mood of the movie. When lyrics are added to this song by Sirivennela garu, the song becomes top class. Techno classical mix that stands tall in recent ARR compositions.

 

7. "Mental Madhilo (Female)"  

Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitaramasastry

Singer(s): Darshana

Darshana is with ARR from Guru days, where she sang few songs in Hindi, which were super hit. Her famous songs were "Mayya Mayya" from Guru, Vaaji Vaaji from Shivaji,  "Pappu Cant Dance Saala" from "Jaane Tu Ya Naa Jaane". She was lively, energetic supported by ARR with instruments. Its a tough contest for listeners to figure out which is better of male/female versions. Both are out of bounds and perfect ARR brand song. Darshana did sing so easy and casually that even tough places in song sounds so normal. "Mental Madi" is perfect synonym for Mind. Its always active and mental for sure. 

8. "Manase Theeyaga" 

Lyrics: Sirivennela Sitaramasastry

Singer(s): K. S. Chithra, Dr. Narayan

I was not expecting an album from ARR without SPB or Chitra atleast. This song gave me a great excitement when it started as a classical song with classical notes in between. Sirivennela gari words are just mind blowing, not just fantastic. ARR the best user of flute gets once again best of it. Chitra madam's exceptional singing is a fantastic treat to listen with combination of beautiful words weaved with magical tune of ARR. Cannot say more and more of this song. Only to listen. Its been a long long long time that these type of songs were heard. ARR just took us a decade back when he used to give such songs. That ARR who got die hard fans and now seems that he is retrospecting. Mani and ARR are magic. 

9. "Moula ya salli wa sallim"  

Traditional

Singer(s): A. R. Ameen

Islamic song, sung by Ameen, who is son of ARR. He is just awesome. Not sure which path he will take when he turns adult. ARR uses the existing song which means Muhammad is the prince of the world. The original is modified little bit here and there to sound lot better and in Ameen's voice this song sounds so touching and naive. This song has so many versions sung by different singers. Not sure what could be the occasion in the movie. But introducing this song it can be proved that devotion and music has no barriers as long as it touches the heart. 

Pick(s) of the album: Entire album

ARR fans have a complaint in recent times that he is lost in UK and lost his touch to compose for Indian songs. However with this album he re-assures that is not lost, he is coming back and on the way to Chennai. He didn't forget Kandukondein Kandukondein times. This album sees a little bit of old ARR, a little bit of new ARR, a little bit of Global ARR. But still he remains the ARR that everyone loves. Maniratnam realizing his mistake with Kadali took care the lyrics department with Sirivennela garu. Sirivennela garu did just fantastic that his fans will go gaga over it. This trio rocks and hope they work togather again and again to provide such treat. Wish Madras Talkies all the best for this movie.

Mukunda Audio Review

Movie: Mukunda ( ముకుంద )
Music: Mickey J Meyer
Director:  Srikanth Addala
Producer(s): B.Madhusudhana Reddy
Cast: Varun Tej, Pooja Hegde

Another hero from Mega family. Now its turn for Nagababu's son Varun Tej. Seems like they are just coming and probably more to come. It seems Varun was supposed to be debut with another team of director and producers, but got scrapped and finally ended with Srikanth Addala directing him. Mukunda being title for a debutant movie is unusual and Srikanth who has been successful directing family movies trying to direct a movie where fans expect something else is a tough choice for the Hero's team, but they made it. Pooja Hegde who made her debut in Oka Laila Kosam is acting as female lead. 

Sirivennela garu getting a single card for lyrics is just fantastic to see after a long time. Mickey J Meyer who has composed some successful movies is know for his feel good songs, tying up with Sirivennela garu and Srikanth is an interesting combination. Not sure whose choice it is but not getting into youthful music is something notable for a debutant. Mickey didnt experiment on singers which is good to see in inlay card.

With lot of good names attached to this album lets see how the songs fared.

1. Chesededo
Lyrics : Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry
Singers : Rahul Nambiar, Revanth

Sirivennela is the hero of the song, next comes Mickey and if singers could have done a little better, it would have been more excellent. Sirivennela in his usual best gives perfect messages to the youth in this youthful song composed by Mickey. Rahul and Revanth had given their best. The words are important for this song along with energy, and they need clarity rather than casually saying them. Phrases like "Kalalaki kallaki kanureppe addamani" are really treat to listen. They not only make one think, they give more than mere message. Sirivennela garu pointed a technical issue in Audio release in this song. But that's fine, we do have technical glitches everywhere. Srikanth and Mickey should be commendable for having this kind of powerful song if used to introduce the hero. Varun Tej must be extremely lucky to get this kind of introduction. 

2. Daredumdadum
Lyrics : Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry
Singers : Mickey J Meyer, Sai Shivani

This song except for the male voice, everything is good. I was not sure about whether its an audio issue or my hearing problem. The song chorus, start of the song didn't match the male voice. They both are completely off sync to each other. Both appear good when heard separately. The initial interludes are familiar. This song should be fixed for the sake of rest of the song. We cannot mute selectively. Mukunda is synonym for flute, it has to be extraordinary and it is good in this song. 

3. Chaala Bagundi
Lyrics : Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry
Singers : Hari Charan

Another good start, with nice foot tapping guitar. MIckey nicely mixed guitar with accompaniments and they all sound good. Guitar accompanying the singer is cool. Haricharan surprisingly didn't do anything extra, kept low which is good. Chala Bagundi could have sounded better. Once again Sirivennela garu rocks. Mickey tried to add different flavors in interludes mixing different styles and they gel well. Overall a cool song that will haunt.

4. Gopikamma
Lyrics : Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry
Singers : Chitra

Sounds like a song in SVSC but that's only similarities in the beats. Chitra garu is just awesome. Trying to wake up the heroine. Mukunda so there has to be a gopika. Who is trying to wake up whom is something the movie will tell I guess. Sirivennela garu has I guess patented on the word Kalalu. He understands about the dreams better than anyone. Doma tera is white, Machu Tera is white. Something changed in 2nd stanza did someone sang in between? Words just flow and treat us. If listener is aware of Krishna and Gopika, they will understand this song better. The nuances of this song. Another good song in this album.

5. Arere Chandrakala
Lyrics : Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry
Singers : Karthik, Sai Shivani

The only issue in this song is with lack of freshness . Karthik and Sai Shivani have no issues. Lyricists who try to write rhyming song should listen to this song. This will teach how not to just add words without meaning. Have rhyming with a meaning is what matters. Another foot tapping song. Could be better on screen if nice moves are added. If Hero and the group are better in dances like the hero's Mega family is known for, fans should go crazy. 

6. Nandalaala
Lyrics : Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry
Singers : Swetha Pandit

Why didnt Chitra get this song? Swetha Pandit had issues with pronunciation and few endings. Also the words are not clear from her singing. Lacks clarity. The word "Ullamu" in Ullamu Jhalluna ponginade is rarely heard these days. If not Sirivennela who would have used it effectively. The songs are lost in Multilingual words written by latest lyricists. Srikanth Addala's choice of songs are really good. Not sure who is behind the idea of Sirivennela getting to write all songs. That person should be commendable. Srikanth could have done much better as interludes didn't appear fresh, but still song feels good. If Chitra and If Srikanth added freshness to this song, this could have been a lot better to hear. And complete justice to lyrics would have been achieved. Having said that, this is definitely a better song to hear.

7. Mukunda Theme

Listen and enjoy. Nothing much to say. 

Pick(s) of the album: Feel good album

Mickey J Meyer is known for his feel good songs, Srikanth Addala is known for feel good movies and the combination should make us doubly feel good and as a matter of fact they do and is a lot better feel good album in recent times. Sirivennela garu tells us what we are missing these days and why he is there where he is. Mukunda ( Krishna ) obviously appeals everyone alike and this one too. Varun Tej gets something that normally everyone doesn't. Time will tell where he will go, but his start of career is really good out of so called youthful music(noise). Wish the entire team all the best. Hope the movie fares well at box office too.

Manam - Audio Review

Movie: Manam ( మనం )

Music: Anoop Rubens

Director:  Vikram Kumar

Producer(s): Akkineni Nagarjuna

Cast: Dr Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Nagarjuna, Naga Chaitanya, Shriya Saran and Samantha

In one of the rarest happening in Telugu movie history that three generation actors from same family acted in a movie directed by "Ishq" movie fame Vikram Kumar. This movie is produced by Akkineni Nagarjuna. He might not have thought that this would be the last film for his father and that he has to cherish the memories acting with his father there after. Whoever acted in this movie or associated with this movie will be a part of a history of Telugu film. When film lovers came to know about this movie first time, they were thrilled to see all of them on the same screen. Now knowing that Legend is not with us anymore, this movie will be embraced for legacy.

The way Dr Akkineni Nageswara rao garu completed this movie is heartening. The way he fought the battle with deadly disease and knowing that his days are counted, planning and completing his portion in the movie is pure inspiration for everyone. Whatever the movie is, now it doesnt matter. This will provide a last chance to Telugu audience to see their favorite actor on the silver screen for one last time.

Music and Dr ANR. have been synonymous. Music has been one of the great factor in many of his movies. Anoop Rubens must be lucky getting once in a life time opportunity to be part of the history. This movie provides 5 songs with an additional track with theme of the movie. There is a song sung by Master Bharath, which has an adult version. So basically its 4 songs. Vanamali wrote one song, Anoop Rubens penned one and the rest goes to Chandrabose.

Lets see whether these songs will be a tribute to Dr. ANR or not. 

1. "Kanulanu Thaake"  

Lyrics: Vanamali

Singer(s): Arijit Singh

Arijit Singh is not a stranger completely for telugu audience or music fraternity. He sung earlier in Uyyala Jampala ( Der thak chala ), Swamy rara and couple of other songs. This song inspite of having a distinct Alien to Telugu feeling, is an instant winner. Arijit, Vanamali and Anoop combined effort paid off. A very soft song, is for melody lovers. A solo song for Arijit with Chorus is appealing. Anoop did very well with interludes and chorus. Guitar, violin and beats are very soft and supports the lead singer very well. Arijit usually had issues with Telugu, but the tune and his scintillating voice covers it up. Over all a good start for the album. The ending of the song is also done quite well.

2. "Chinni Chinni Aasalu"  

Lyrics: Chandrabose

Singer(s): Shreya Ghoshal, Ashwin, Hari

Anoop has done quite well in instruments in this song too. Quite refreshing. Another soft song. There are too many chinni's, chiru's that sounded very well. Seems like the music of this movie is following mood of the movie which is kind of feel good. Anoop followed a pattern/theme for the songs, which should go well with movie. Shreya Ghoshal makes mistakes pronouncing Telugu words, which are unforgivable/unacceptable any more for her caliber. In-spite of singing more than a decade in Telugu she makes blunders, it does not matter how great her voice is, she is the turn off for this song. "బహుమతిచ్చావే" not "బహుమతి చావే". The way she sang, Instead of giving gift, its like take gift and die. It is Hari and Ashwin's show in this song. One voice was very unique and other's was soft and cool. Not sure which one is who. It will take time to realize who is who. Again a good effort by Anoop.

3. "Manam (Theme)"  

Theme Music

Singer(s): Chaitra H. G.

Theme music is being heard over promos and trailers. This theme is carried for all the songs. Chaitra has done well for the given scope. This music definitely depicts the theme of the movie. 

4. "Kani Penchina Maa Ammake"  

Lyrics: Chandrabose

Master Bharath, Chorus

This song is sung by a kid and an adult version comes later in the album. May be kind of family song or a love song goes thru family? Anoop brings in a little classical flavor to the song, Master Bharath and chorus did decent. Egasina Bigisina katha idi, Jolalu naake paadaru gaa aa jaalini marichi polenugaa, only Chandrabose can write such words :) Bigisina katha and jola paadedi jaali tonaa not sure whether it is right to say, Who ever sings lullaby will not sing with sympathy, they sing with Love and effection. Just to find rhythmic pattern of words, Chandrabose might have used it, other wise it doesn't make much sense. Anyway other than few hiccups like these, he did fine and away from his routine songs which doesn't make much sense, this one is better for sure.

5. "Piyo Piyo Re"  

Lyrics: Anoop Rubens

Singer(s): Anoop Rubens Jaspreet Jasz, Anoop Rubens, Rap by Meghraj, Rahul & Chorus

Complete energetic song. This song will be a party song going forward. Rap is mixed as usual. Adding ANR's evergreen song with original voice will leave good feel. The tune reminds another famous Hindi song, but stays for very short, as the ANR song will take over the memory lane. A short length song compared to regular format. But fans will go in ecstasy. One of the male voice was dull in this otherwise energetic song. Leaving ANR song as it is and mixing it, wrapping around it was clever thing done by Anoop Rubens. 

6. "Idi Prema"  

Lyrics: Chandrabose

Singer(s): Haricharan

Haricharan sings the adult version of Idi Prema sung by Master Bharath. Somehow Haricharan sounded odd in base voice. Some good feel is missing in Haricharan's voice. May be that was the limitations that Haricharan had with his voice and singing. He did his best though. Personally, I feel Karthik would have been a better choice for this song as he comes with fluent and effortless singing in this kind of songs. Again Anoop did very good in terms of orchestration and instruments, choose the right ones at right places. Guess there was a note missed by instrument at the ending of first interlude. Thought I heard an apasruti in a hurried ending. Anyways this is like looking at a magnifying glass for issues, for other wise a feel good song. Hero of the song is Anoop.

Pick(s) of the album: Kanulanu Taake, Piyo Piyo Re, Chinni Chinni Aasalu. 

ANR was lucky that he always had tremendous musical hits whichever decade he acted. Even in modern era he had so many musical hits. Its either his choice or good music fell into his lap always. 

Manam is the last movie of one of the two eyes of Telugu Industry, Dr ANR. The music has to be at the level that it should be a tribute to the Legend. The standards of movie music in the modern era has gone too low, but this one stands little tall compared to the latest albums in this year. Whether this is a tribute to Dr. ANR or not, music lovers and ANR fans will decide. The music meets the movie theme and tells about the movie for us. Anoop was successful in that part. Rest is in listeners hand.

Ulavacharu Biryani Audio Review

Movie: Ulavacharu Biryani - ఉలవచారు బిర్యాని 

Music: Isaignaani Ilayaraja

Director: Prakashraj 

Producer(s): K.S.Ramarao ( Creative Commercials )

Cast: Prakashraj, Sneha,  Samyuktha Hornad and Mandya Ramesh

One of its first of kind, a movie made as Trilingual which is a remake of Malayalam Film, Prakashraj directs and acts in this movie named in Telugu as Ulavacharu Biryani. In Tamil titled as "Un Samayal Arayil" and in Kannada as "Oggarane" . The film as caption says "Love is Cooking" is about a romantic story of two couples falling in love through their common interest which is food. The film story line sounds interesting. Sneha after a long gap acting in this movie as co-star to Prakashraj.

Prakashraj directing his third film, says he is enjoying directing movies which gives him chance to spend time with his family, identify something new in him and do something on his own. He pairs up with Ilayaraja again with this movie after his earlier movie "Dhoni". Though the movie didnt enjoy success, the music and movie was critically acclaimed. Prakashraj shows great respect and devotion to Ilayaraja and seems like he enjoys getting every opportunity to work with Ilayaraja. 

This movie has Chandrabose as single card lyricist. Prakashraj is known for having good lyrical values in his movies and obviously with Ilayaraja at the helm the expectations are more. Need to see how good he extracted lyrics from Chandrabose who these days is very limited in showcasing his skills by writing some words to tunes just to fit them in other than having great lot of meaning in those lyrics. The singers list consists of few less heard names, few regulars and Kailash Kher. There are only 4 songs in this movie which tells, they should be well made for situations as it defies regular commercial song count.

The movie visuals so far shows lot of cooking and visual feast of food. Whether music is able to create audible feast or not, lets see. 

1. E Janmame Ruchi 

Singer(s):  Kailash Kher

Lyrics: Chandrabose

There were many songs on food and food items that Andhra is famous for. This song is about different food choices Telugu people can enjoy. Chandrabose tried more of rhyming words and having a pattern. He was successful in listing few famous items added to the tune of Ilayaraja, will make listeners to go get them right away.  Visuals of this song also show lots of cooking during this song and this is really a feast in waiting.

Coming to singing, Kailash kher has a unique voice which suits perfectly for few types of songs very well. However not sure whose decision was to make him sing this song. The making video shows he struggled to bring stress on words/emotions that Ilayaraja wants. His voice suits the tune but the words from his voice doesn't fit the song, there by the song lost its charm. He mercilessly killed the words. The list of killed words might be longer than the song itself :(. The only times the song will appeal to listeners is interludes. 

The song is full of Telugu native food items doesn't sound like Telugu at all with Kailash Kher singing the song, there by the enthusiasm to hear the song again will disappear. The visuals show that this song is worth watch on screen.

Not sure why makers didnt take enough care? If this happens to Ilayaraja, then we can forget about Telugu Songs in future. We might need to start a Facebook page to "Save Telugu Song". 

2. Theeyaga Theeyaga    

Vibhavari & Ranjith

Lyrics: Chandrabose

Ilayaraja had luxury of singers at his hand who could make justice his tunes. We can see the difference of yesteryear singers and Ilayaraja tunes of that time versus current tunes and singers. The earlier generation singers not only did justice to his tunes, they elevated the songs to an extent that the song lived for many years. However the current singers are not even able to match his tunes. That shows clearly sad state of singers, even though there are thousands of singers coming thruough talent shows, they aren't any good singers that can sustain and meet singing challenges from music directors like Ilayaraja. Why does హృదయం sound as రుదయం? Even written in other language, the word shouldn't change.  Ranjith and Vibhavari lack energy and enthusiasm, unable to provide the feel of the mood of the song. Clearly this song could have been better for the tune that was composed. The humming is typical of Ilayaraja that sounds so pleasant.

3. Telisee Teliyandila

Singer(s): Karthik & Ramya NSK

Lyrics: Chandrabose

Ilayaraja has a unique signature tune for every movie, whether it is part of BGM or a song.  I guess this song is that signature tune. Its amazing to see how he comes up one everytime,  inspite of working for 950 odd movies. Each of them are different and makes mark. The start of this song is that tune I guess and instantly catches up. The guitar is always better at Ilayaraja. The tune will be so involved into the movie that this will fit the mood. He uses these tunes as BGM in many movies for few scenes too. I am not seeing the original Karthik  these days. Something is missing in his singing lately. Ramya too could have done a lot better than the way she has sung. In spite of having everything in this song, feels like something is missing that doesn't make this song hook listeners instantly. May be need couple of times listening is required.

4. Raayaleni Lekhane

Singer(s): Sarath

Lyrics: Chandrabose

Chandrabose who wore a different cap in this album has done decent job for the songs. This song is another example of being able to step aside from his usual non-sense lyrics he writes. Ilayaraja could have done tonnes of songs with this emotion and he does once again yet another time in great style. Guitar sounds so powerful. Sarath sounded like Yesudas a bit, which is limited to voice not singing wise.  His singing lacks power but within his limitations did fine. As always with Ilayaraja, the guitar bit in the ending again touches. A short song though.

Pick(s) of the album: Telisee teliyandila, Raayaleni Lekhane

Raja/Raj combination once again did justice to the movie with music providing support to the theme of the movie. The songs will suit the movie, but with changing times Ilayaraja moved to different style of composition which I guess will be liked by limited audience.  Not sure how much the general audience will like this music, The music will be embraced by Ilayaraja fans, but even they will have problems with singers being clearly the weakest link for this album. Prakashraj as a director he got what he want, depends on how he added visuals to these songs to make them more watched in theater.  

Some on in Audio release said, Ulavacharu a andhra dish and Biryani being Telangana dish, Ilayaraja became bridge between those by becoming "meegada". Not sure what it meant, as said by movie makers, this movie is not about regions. Anyways all the best to the team.

Racegurram Audio Review

Movie: Racegurram - రేస్ గుర్రం 

Music: S.S.Thaman

Director: Surendar Reddy 

Producer(s): Nallamalapu Srinivas (Bujji) and Dr. Venkateswara Rao

Cast: Allu Arjun, Shruti Haasan, Saloni Aswani and Shaam

Allu Arjun's latest offering Racegurram is said to be a youthful romantic action thriller. Surendar reddy first time working with Allu Arjun has roped in Thaman in music department.Shruti Haasan is female lead. Initially it was thought Samantha would be the female lead. This movie audio release was made simple and delayed due to Pawan kalyan's political debut. 

Surendar reddy and Allu Arjun are known for being stylish in their presentations. So they teaming up and the teasers released has set huge expectations on the movie. Thaman is working for the first time with Allu Arjun. Thaman worked earlier with Surendar, this would be their second movie. Thaman's last movie that released was Masala, This shows there has been some gap for Thaman who was busy otherwise scoring movies left and right. For Charan though Yevadu released in January, the music was released long back.

This movie has total 6 songs, one is title song of course. The lyrics department has a surprise name as Varikuppala Yadagiri who is known for his songs in Erra Sainyam and Veera Telangana. He is also a singer, so lent his voice for a song. Another surprise is Usha Uthup who featured in Title song.

Coming to music, in general I have been complaining about Thaman's music regarding the following. 

1. His music is repetitive, he copies music from others.

2. He uses wrong tunes for situations due to which the tune and mood are out of sync. 3. His music is perfectly within his template doesn't offer variety.

4. Most of the time, we cannot hear any of his singers original voice - he changes the voice sometimes so badly that it irritates listeners.

5. His music is very loud that singers voice is lost most of the times.

6. All songs sound same with his repetitive pattern of beats/rhythm.

7. Most of his songs are highly pitched half way thru the song.

8. His melodies doesn't sound like melody due to his style of orchestration, rhythm, choice of tunes, singers voice manipulation.

Apart from these issues which I don't have to repeat again, I will try to see whether Thaman offered anything different this time.

1. "Boochade Boochade"  

Lyrics:  Chandrabose

Singer(s): Shreya Ghoshal, Rahul Nambiar, Naveen Madhav

This is typical Thaman to start an album. He always make listeners to remember his old songs to just introduce himself. This song is perfect example of it. If you feel you are listening for first time, then you really don't know about Thaman or hearing him for the first time for which he might feel sorry for that. I guess he will keep doing that until entire Telugu audience is familiar about his music. The way the singer sings the song also exactly Same to Same. Chethade, Gilletode, Tegistaade, all the same style. No wonder we call him S(Same) S(Song) Thaman. The interludes, the beats all perfectly same - reused, rehashed put in a new wrap and is called a new song. There are many shades of his earlier songs done quite differently. This makes his life easy though :) Chandrabose is irrelevant here in this song.

2. "Sweety"

Lyrics: Varikuppala Yadagiri

Singer(s): Siddharth Mahadevan, Rabbit Mac

This song for a second appears better, but when the singer says freedom pondave, its again Same Song style. This doesn't have his template beats, but the singing style of singers doesn't make it a different kind of song. Rap in between is nothing different. Having said that this is perfect example of Thaman's trendy, youthful, new generation music for which people rave about him and are behind him.

3. "Cinema Choopista Mava"  

Varikuppala Yadagiri

Singer(s): Simha, Varikuppala Yadagiri

The song starts with an irritating singing style and then Thaman becomes himself. His famous dappulu are back. This song offers nothing new everything same to same. His alteration of singer voice is just irritating and makes singing so reckless. Not sure why he does that to a song. The lyricist has written perfect mass song, but Thaman doesn't add any value to the song. There is absolutely no variety in this song.

4. "Gala Gala"  

Lyrics:  Rehaman

Singer(s): Dinesh Kanagaratnam, Megha  

Heavily inspired by ARR songs. Thaman doesn't feel shy of copying himself or others. Not sure how movie makers are accepting and paying for music that is already made. Are they so naive or they don't care that no one complains and keep accepting what ever they give? Surprising to see so many people tweeting Thaman that the music is great for a song that is already made by someone and all Thaman has to do is to present in a different way. The moment its remade, there is nothing to write about this song.

5. "Down Down" 

Lyrics:  Viswa

Singer(s): S. Thaman, Shruti Haasan

This song is perfect play for any RJ/DJ in any dance party. Unfortunately for Thaman its everyone's unanimous guess about the original song. So if you guess it means you listen to same music that Thaman also listens. Shruti Haasan lends her voice for this song along with Thaman. Being a dancer this song will help Bunny a lot or we can say it other way. This is perfect song for onscreen. The tunes, the beats are heard in any dance party, so Thaman has nothing to do in this song either other than singing the song along with Shruti Haasan.

6. "Race Gurram"  

Lyrics:  Varikuppala Yadagiri

Singer(s): Usha Uthup, M. M. Manasi, M. M. Monisha

Thaman tries to be different in this song, but his dappulu and repeated tune doesn't allow to. This song has energy, pace, race for the horse that can dance. He added Usha Uthup to the song, but she is completely lost as told in one of the issues of Thaman. She didn't sound herself at all. Whatever the song has the energy, beats which Bunny needs and is short song in entire album.

Pick(s) of the album: Race gurram, Sweety

Thaman said he had completed composing the songs in January itself. Now we know why, 3 songs copied/inspired the rest typical template music so why does he need time to make them? The definition of successful music has changed, so if fans like the songs, I guess the album is successful. But music wise, not required to say again and again. Songs for Bunny and they are really for Bunny and his fans. Thaman still has his regular issues but who cares as long as movie is successful.