I like A.R. Rahman, but his recents songs are nowhere near his old evergreen hits. Mastero.
But my favourites are Shankar Ehsaan Loy, many might find it awful, but really, they are amazing. Kal Ho Naa Ho is everyones favorite, SEL is the best. Rahman's only - point is that his compositions are rather weak on the emotional side, but it doesnt mean that they are not good. He is a Legend.
Any Ilayaraja fans? If i had to pick one among ARR and Raja, ill go with Raja. Who can forget his tracks Kanne Kalaimane, Anthi Mazhai, Rasathi Unne, e.t.c.?
After a rare visit to the forum on a high after the Dark Knight's stupendous success, I decided to review Sakkarakatti.
This does not include the 2 reused Meenaxi songs, of which the originals are better...(and to be honest, I havent heard them as much).
Taxi Taxi-4.5/5
This sounds just like a modern rock song, with an infectious, hard-thumping rhythm. ARR brilliantly establishes an atmosphere of crowded taxis, and proceeds to draw the listener into a rocking experience (Say Balle Balle, Say Balle Balle, Say Ale Ale Shava...). Blaaze is terrific and given terrific support by Vivianne with her entertaining, if offbeat Taxi sounds.
I Miss You Da-4.5/5
This is an incredible, groundbreaking track. So experimental and out-of-the-box, it creates a seductive atmosphere. Take a bow, Chinmayi!! Seriously, if you hear Oru Deivam (KM), Sahana (Sivaji) and I Miss You, you will be forgiven for thinking that 3 separate singers sing the tracks. Thats how versatile she is. My only complaint is the 'Emene, Emene sounds.
Marudaani-4/5
An effective mixture of the melodious and modern, once again Rahman draws you in with a very rhythmic song and yet establishes a tranquil atmosphere with piano and flute sounds. Madhushree, unfortunately spoils the track somewhat with her rendition especially towards the end, but is saved by the chorus. ARR is magical in his parts.
Elay-4/5
This is the track that has grown on me the most after its initial listening. The song's main highlight is how simple it is when compared to the other 3 more complex tracks. Great use of violins in particular establish an old fashioned feel for the song. The interludes are fantastic but watch out for a splendid end to the song! It does sound a bit like Robaaroo and does not follow a set structure, with too much singing (such a song would have been enhanced with further interludes!). Thoroughly enjoyable!
For some, Sakkarakkati will be a dissapointment. The hype, combined with the absence of a clear melody and an ARR solo song, as well as 2 reused songs will result in an incomplete musical experience. But with 4 songs, ARR once again delights in creating a very unique, experimental musical album. On my first listen, I found the album strange but on repeated listens, Sakkarakkati is a cool album, one to be praised for its innovative and modern feel. Not quite up to Sivaji, but much much better than ATM!
Exclusives Reviews Previews
AR Rehman, the present numero uno in Indian Film Music, is going to compose for Kalaignar Karunanidhi's new project Ponnar Sankar, a historical film that was announced recently. Based on the famous historical novel written by the Chief Minister M Karunanidhi in the same title, this Prashanth starrer film is produced and directed by his father Thyagarajan.
A week ago Thiyagarajan told that he would be roped in with the country's best technicians to make the film as an unforgettable historical movie in Indian Cinema.
It may be recalled that a couple of days ago AR Rahman called on the CM and spent some 40 plus minutes and discussed various things including his dream project KM Music Conservatory which is going to be launched soon in the suburban of the City.
It is said that during this discussion the CM asked Rahman to compose for his dream project Ponnar Sankar. Some reliable sources confirmed that the composer also accepted the offer with a pleasing smile and confirmed his role as the Music Director for Ponnar Sankar.