Kavya Janani U.'s Blog, page 17

L for Luka Chuppi (#AToZChallenge)

Rang De Basanti was a path-breaking soundtrack in Rahman’s Bollywood career. Each and every song had a flavour of its own. Rahman added yet another dimension to music by introducing western influences and interweaving them with Indian traditional music. Though the album didn’t turn out to be addictive on the first listen, it soon gathered more and more listeners with its slow poison factor.

Luka Chuppi from Rang De Basanti is an unconventional song. It’s also highly situational and it’s liable to be enjoyed only by a few. The song portrays a mother losing her son and her feelings of sorrow are painted beautifully. Lata Mangeshkar yields the megaphone. Even after all these years, her nightingale voice sounds fresh and fruity. She emotes well to Prasoon Joshi’s lovable lyrics. Rahman lends his voice alongside Lata and it’s a refreshing change from other stereotypical duets. His silky voice flows like honey and wraps the tune in warmth.

Moving on to the orchestration, Rahman keeps it minimal. The focus is more on the composition and lyrics, that the instruments don’t have much impact. The mellowed tabla beats add to the beauty of the song and some clean guitar strums are visible in the prelude and interludes. The swara aalaap towards the end of the number is an innovative thought by Rahman. My favourite lines,

“Kya bataaon maa kahaan hoon main

Yahaan udne ko mere khula aasmaan hai…

Tere kisson jaisa bhola salona

Jahaan hai yahaan sapno wala…”

Listen to this emotional here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNr4Hy7vIHw

A couple of peppy Rahman songs in L:

Ladio from I
Lattoo from Ghajini

Happy Listening!

Love,

Kavya Janani.U

K for Kaadhal Rojave and other songs (#AToZChallenge)

K has plenty of songs in its kitty. I have chosen eight songs as my soul songs from the list. Here they go:

Kaadhal Rojave (Roja)

What better start to K than the evergreen song from Roja? This is that number which catapulted Rahman to become a sensation. The sweet humming by Sujatha Mohan, the flute section in the interlude, and the legendary voice of S.P.B, everything is so perfect in this number. No wonder Roja finds a place in ’10 Best Soundtracks of All Time’.

Some verses from Vairamuthu’s lyrics,

“Thendral ennai theendinaal 

Selai theendum nyaabagam

Chinna pookal paarkaiyil

Dhegam paartha nyaabagam

Velli odai pesinaal

Sonna vaarthai nyaabagam

Megam rendum sergaiyil 

Mogam konda nyaabagam”

Listen to this beautiful song here: https://youtu.be/6wCmHxgcaek

Kaatu Sirukki (Raavanan)

I love the soundscape of this song. Perfect for a walk in the woods. This romantic number is unlike any other. It speaks about a forbidden love and the nuances of it. The upbeat rhythm, the haunting interludes, Shankar Mahadevan’s powerful voice, and Anuradha Sriram’s high-pitched rendition make this song a mystical one. Vairamuthu’s metaphoric lyrics are wonderful. My favourite lines,

“Uchanthala vagudu vazhi otha manam alaiyudhadi

Odhadu vari pallathula usur vizhundhu thavikudhadi

Paazha pona manasu pasi eduthu konda pathiyatha murikudhadi…”

Listen to this song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVzbEE9wH1M

Kahin Aag Lage (Taal):

Can I ever get over Taal? No. Never. This is that album which would make it to my personal list of ’10 Best Albums To Hear Before You Die’. Okay, what can I express about this song? I don’t know where to begin. Should I talk about the jungle type rhythm? Or should I pontificate about Asha Bhosle’s evergreen voice? Let me speak about the interludes. A vibrant amalgamation of violins, cellos, piano notes, strings and childish humming make most of the two interludes. Some beautiful lines from Anand Bakshi’s lyrics,

“Har waqt guzar jaata hai

Par dard thahar jaata hai

Sab bhul bhi jaaye koi

Kuch yaad magar aata hai…”

Listen to this smashing track here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gM3E0xRCaVk

Kaise Mujhe (Ghajini)

Whenever I hear this song, I would be pulled into a dreamy reverie. Melody oozes from every corner of this romantic number. Added to the soulful tune is Benny Dayal’s silky voice and Shreya Ghoshal’s honey-dipping rendition. The interlude is replete of sitar, soft percussion, oboe, guitar strums and lilting piano notes. Talk about a true blue melody, and here it is! Prasoon Joshi’s poetic lyrics offer some great lines,

“Badle raaste jharne aur nadhi

Badle deep ki tim tim

Chede zindagi dhun koi nayi

Badle barkha ki rim jhim

Badlengi rituyein adha

Par main rahungi sadha…”

Listen to this soul-stirring composition here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5nMNt9F2JU

Kannalane Enadhu (Bombay):

Hmmm, where do I begin? Right from the ‘Gum sum gum sum gup chup’, this song is one grand celebration. Everything about this number is sure to tingle your senses. And the icing on the cake is K.S.Chitra’s nightingale voice and Rahman’s heavenly aalaap in the first interlude. This song influenced me so much while writing my baby ‘With love, forever’. Why? It appears in the story itself! My favourite lines from Vairamuthu’s verses,

“Aalaana oru seidhi ariyaamale

Alaipaayum siru bedhai naano…

Un perum en perum theriyaamale

Ullangal idam maarum yeno…

Vaai pesave vaaipillaiye

Vali theera vazhi ennavo…”

Listen to this ethereal song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3-W2D1Bqr0

Kismat Se Tum (Pukar):

Scintillating melodies are Rahman’s signature. But what if a song serenades your senses and haunts your soul forever? This is that melody that can bewitch you in an instant. With a lilting soundscape, Rahman weaves a semi-classical tune that is sure to linger in your minds for a long time. Sonu Nigam and Anuradha Paudwal are as legendary as ever. Flute sections, mellowed chorus and strings drive the interlude.

Listen to this song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uy84AB-5k9k

Kun Faya Kun (Rockstar)

Sufi! Sufi! Sufi! I am possessed by Sufi music. And I can tell that this number is the purest form of Rahman’s Sufi. The spellbinding tune and Irshaad Kamil’s Arabic and Urdu lyrics make us connect to the Almighty directly. The velvety voices of Rahman and Javed Ali add to the spirituality. Harmonium and soft tabla beats intersperse naturally. Rahman gives the number a western twist by introducing few guitar strums and Mohit Chauhan’s cameo rendition.

Some songs are to be experienced. This is one such. Listen to it right away: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T94PHkuydcw

Kurukku Siruthavale (Mudhalvan)

One of Rahman’s finest compositions of the late 90s. His vintage flute section opens the number. Dholak and tabla beats cross each other and provide a beautiful soundscape for this romantic duet. Hariharan is at his best and he croons with elan, while Mahalakshmi Iyer’s fruity voice complements well. Another fantastic aspect about this song is the usage of saarangi in the interludes, which provide a rustic flavour to the number.

Listen to this song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPGbuYvfVg4

Other soulful compositions in K:

Kaadhal Kadidham from Jodi
Kaadhal Sadugudu from Alaipaayuthey
Kaatre En Vaasal from Rhythm
Kaatril Oar Vaarthai from Varalaaru
Kabhi Kabhi Aditi from Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na
Kalaiyil Dhinamum from New
Kandukondein Kandukondein from Kandukondein Kandukondein
Kannamoochi Yenada from Kandukondein Kandukondein
Kannukku Mai Azhagu (both versions) from Puthiya Mugam
Kappaleri Poiyaachu from Indian
Kathalenum Thervezhudhi from Kaadhalar Dhinam
Khamoshiyaan Gungunane from One 2 Ka 4
Konjam Nilavu from Thiruda Thiruda
Konjum Mainaakale from Kandukondein Kandukondein
Kuchi Kuchi from Bombay
Kulirudhu Kulirudhu from Taj Mahal
Kya Kare Kya Na Kare from Rangeela
Kalvare from Raavanan

Happy Listening!

Love,

Kavya Janani.U

J for Jashn-e-Bahara (#AToZChallenge)

The alphabet J has a handful of songs and all of them are smashing hits. My pick is Jashn-e-Bahara from Jodhaa Akbar. I love Sufi music more than any other classical genre. A.R.Rahman lifted my love for Sufi by two notches with his soulful Sufi and qawwali compositions. Jodhaa Akbar was one grand album released in 2008, that was replete with Sufi songs.

Rahman indulges in composing a soothing melody that creates a bewitching harmonic atmosphere. The prelude consists of a lilting guitar section which paves way for a mellowed rhythmic progression. This soulful number is further enhanced by Javed Ali’s buttery voice. As a soloist, he does a fantabulous job in rendering Javed Akhtar’s aesthetic lyrics.

The lyrics speak about a budding romance in that vintage era. Urdu poetry is at its best and Javed Akhtar wins all our hearts with his verses. My favourite lines,

“Karte to hai saath safar

Faasale hai phir bhi magar

Jaise milte nahi kisi dariya ke do kinare…

Paas hai phir bhi paas nahi

Humko ye gham raas nahi

Sheeshe ki ek deewar hai jaise darmiyaan…”

Listen to this heavenly song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_E8euJ1sEg

Other evergreen songs in J:

Jaane Tu (both versions) from Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na
Jab Tak Hai Jaan from Jab Tak Hai Jaan
Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire
Jana Gana Mana from Ayudha Ezhuthu
Jimbalakka from En Swasa Kaatre
Jiya Jale from Dil Se
Jiya Re from Jab Tak Hai Jaan
Jiya Se Jiya from Connections

Happy Listening!

Love,

Kavya Janani.U

 

I for Ishq Bina Kya (#AToZChallenge)

Yeah! Finally I have reached the album (Taal) that has defined my entire life till now. And this song Ishq Bina Kya has worked wonders in my case. An utterly melodious number that can take you to the highest level of addiction. The perfect atmosphere for a calm mind would be – breezy rainfall, piping hot cup of coffee or tea, and this number from Taal.

When Taal’s album was released, it was heavily criticized. Music reviewers compared the music to that of Dil Se and claimed that Rahman had lost his charm. But let me tell you one thing. Taal is an album that acts as a slow poison and gradually creeps into your soul to stay in it forever. Each and every song is a classic in itself. Though I cannot crown this number as the best of the album (that is bagged by some other song), it is my soul song and it will continue to remain.

Beginning with a dulcet string section, this sweet number has Anuradha Sriram crooning to the poetic lyrics of Anand Bakshi. She has an high-pitched and innocent voice, which actually aptly suits the mood of the song. Sujatha quips in with the ‘Neeche ishq hai…’ line. Though she is rarely heard in Bollywood, her pronunciation is top class and her honey-dipping voice is magical to listen. Sonu Nigam has a cameo section, but it stands out in the entire song. He sounds naturally romantic. Another beautiful aspect of this song is the qawwali section which arrives in intervals. Rahman’s soprano voice intersperses well with the energetic chorus. My favourite verses:

“Rab sab se sona ishq ishq…

Rab se bhi sona ishq…”

Listen to this beautiful song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bm_cS9wT5YA

Other sweet songs in I:

Idhu Naal Varaiyil from Achcham Yenbadhu Madamaiyada
Innum Konja Neram from Mariyaan
Iru Pookal from Uyire
Irumbile Oru from Enthiran
Ishq Ada Hai (both versions) from Ada
Innisai from Varalaaru

Happy Listening!

Love,

Kavya Janani.U

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H for Hosanna (#AToZChallenge)

Yes, yes, this ever-famous number – Hosanna from Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya, is my soul song. When this song was released, it became a revolution in a few days and it still remains to be. For the die-hard romantics, this song turned out to be an anthem.

I have a few other numbers in H which are equally soul-stirring, but I chose this one. Rahman always adds a new dimension to music with each decade. When 2010 dawned, he added yet another dimension with the fantabulous soundtrack of Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya.

Hosanna is an ethereal number from the album. It sprays the mystical power of love on all the listeners. The grandeur chorus which chant ‘Hosanna’, the scintillating flute in the prelude, the foot-tapping and loveable rap section by Blaaze, and the combination of violins and strings in the interludes make up a complete musical package in just one song. Added to this etherealness is Suzanne D’Mello’s humming section. She pulls you into a trance with her velvety voice.

I bet no one would have done justice to this song other than Vijay Prakash. Each and every line of his is perfect. He emotes well to the poetic lyrics of Thamarai. My favourite lines,

“Yen idhayam udaithaai norungave…

En maru idhayam tharuven nee udaikave…”

Listen to this song here: https://youtu.be/YFYiTS46x-8

Other evergreen H songs of Rahman:

Hai Rama from Rangeela
Haira Hairabba from Jeans
Haiyo Pathikichu from Rhythm
Heer Heer from Jab Tak Hai Jaan
Heera from Highway
Hello Mister from Iruvar
Hey Goodbye Nanba from Ayudha Ezhuthu

Happy Listening!

Love,

Kavya Janani.U

G for Genda Phool (#AToZChallenge)

Hey folks!

The alphabet G has less songs, too. And a couple of songs in this list are underrated. Okay, my pick is Genda Phool from Delhi-6. My selection may sound unlikely (with two other songs in G being chart busters), but it is close to my heart. In fact, the entire album of Delhi-6 defines my soul. Though an underrated soundtrack, each and every song is a gem, according to me. The album had varied soundscapes that catered to listeners of all genres.

Genda Phool is a traditional number that sprays festivity all over. Don’t expect a grand wedding number with upbeat rhythm. It’s a subtle traditional song that slowly spreads warmth. Embedded with synth bass loops and mellowed techno beats, this number is top class fusion by Rahman. The voices of Rekha Bharadwaj, Shrradha Pandit, Sujatha Mazumder, and Mahathi aptly suit the mood. Rajat Dholakia also shares the music credits for this chart buster.

Though it’s not a number meant for all, it’s an interesting fusion which can be enjoyed by all at least once. I chose this as my soul song since the entire album of Delhi-6 has a past connection with me.

Listen to the song here: https://youtu.be/0J8u0p3qmbY

Other beautiful songs in G:

Ghanan Ghanan from Lagaan
Guzaarish from Ghajini
Gup Chup Baatein from Love You Hamesha
Gulfisha from Ada

Happy listening!

Love,

Kavya Janani.U

F for Fanna (#AToZChallenge)

F is an exceptional alphabet. Can you believe if I say that there is only one evergreen song in F? Okay, maybe two. The second one is not as smashing as this number. I was actually happy in finding at least one Rahman song in F (I almost panicked that I wouldn’t write a post today). Thank God, Fanna from Aayudha Ezhuthu saved me.

This is a rocking party number. Trance loops, techno beats, a melange of vibrant chorus and what not! Every element of a club song is swathed in it. Rahman himself takes the responsibility of crooning the number. His high-pitched rendition is addictive. Especially the swara section towards the end is an innovative attempt.

Rahman is amply supported by Sunita Sarathy, Tanvi Shah and Pop Shalini. Though lyrics are not given much importance, Vairamuthu’s contemporary verses on love are appreciable.

Listen to this smashing number here: https://youtu.be/stHk8B5mta4

P.S: The other number which I said is Fiqrana from Blue (2009). 

Happy Listening!

Love,

Kavya Janani.U

E for Ennai Kaanavillaiye & other songs (#AToZChallenge)

Hi friends!

E has a slightly longer list than the other alphabets. So I am gonna speak about my love for four songs in this post. Let me get down to business now.

D for Dil Se Re (#AToZChallenge)

Hi friends! Hope you all are enjoying A.R.Rahman’s soul-stirring songs in this series of posts.

C for Chotta Chotta (#AToZChallenge)

C is yet another alphabet that doesn’t have much songs. I scoured over Rahman’s discography to collect some evergreen numbers that have warmed my soul. Among the songs, Chotta Chotta (Female Version) from the movie Taj Mahal is my favourite. Though the male version is equally beautiful, I like this one more.

When Sujatha Mohan begins ‘Adi nee enge…’ , we are sure that we are in for a treat. A melange of traditional instruments along with a foot-tapping rhythm paves way for an aesthetically composed tune. Rahman’s vintage flute is predominant in the interlude and towards the end of the song.

Sujatha renders Vairamuthu’s poetic lyrics with ease. Her childlike voice flows like honey and is pleasing to the ears. My favourite lines are:

“Ilaimaiyin thevai edhu edhu endru

Arindhoam neeyallava…

Idhuvarai vaazhndha vaazhkaiku artham

Anbe nee sollava…”

Listen to this beautiful number here:

https://youtu.be/9n8e96MS2P8

Other charming numbers:

Chali Kahaani from Tamasha
Chinna Chinna Aasai from Roja
Chinna Chinna Mazhaithuligal from En Swaasa Kaatre
Chaiyya Chaiyya from Dil Se
Chanda Re from Sapnay
Chandhiranai from Ratchagan
Chupke Se from Saathiya

Let me know if I have left out any songs.