ATM – Music Review : Behindwoods

He had just delivered one of the biggest audio blockbusters of recent times in India, Sivaji. He is joining hands with Vijay again after the Udhaya fiasco. Never has he been tested more to cater to the Ilayathalapathy fans. And to make it even more interesting, he has a new director to work with. Will Allaha Rakha Rahman deliver?

Ella Pughazhum - A R Rahman, Lyrics: Vaali

Electrifying guitar, pumping percussions, inspiring lyrics and an overwhelming voice. What else can someone ask for, in an opening song?

Well, there are certain Rahman songs which leave you with a smile on your face, by the time it ends, with the adrenalin rush refusing to get out of you. This one is of that kind. Should we say anything more?

Vijay's fans are already celebrating, dancing in the aisles.

Take that, says the master.

Ponmagal Vandaal - Aslam, Ember Rap, Lyrics: Aalangudi Somu

A fascinating retune, interspersed with rap giving an interesting dimension to the already timeless classic. In fact, Ember Rap is the icing on the cake. Loops are familiar but the harmony is awesome. Don’t miss the sign off. Rahman seems to have taken a liking towards rap these days and is doing a fantastic job at it, hope purists aren’t complaining.

Caution, Maestro at work!



Nee Marilyn Monroe - Benny, Dayal, Ujjainee, Lyrics: Na. Muthukumar

Takes off right from where “Ponmagal Vandaal” left. An enchanting humming by Ujjainee sets the mood perfectly for a sizzling swinger. Rahman has experimented with techno sounds before, but the mixing this time is unique, mellowing it down a bit for the Indian taste. Na.Muthukumar has tried out some really naughty lines ala Vaali - very youthful lyrics. Benny’s voice definitely adds to it all.



Valayapatti – Naresh Iyer, Ujjayinee, Madhumita, Lyrics: Na. Muthukumar

A song in praise of the heroine’s beauty by the hero. A folk and qawwali fusion with foot tapping beats, in this yet another experimental number by Rahman, is all set to keep Vijay’s fans away from their seats. Might need couple of hearing for some, to fall in love with this one, but wait till it actually hits the silver screen, Vijay might very well have a ball. Na.Muthukumar shines, Naresh rules and the girls rock.



Kelamal Kayile – Sriram Parthasarthy, Saindhavi, Lyrics: Thamarai

The only melody in the album, lilting to say the least, though with a familiar rhythm pattern. Sriram and Saindhavi’s voice elevate the song to a different level altogether. This is one song that is sure to grow on the listeners. Thamarai’s lyrics do lend a different flavor. Something Vijay’s movies have not seen in a long time.



Madhuraikku Pogathadee – Benny, Dayal, Archith, Dharshana, Lyrics: Pa. Vijay

A typical folk number, reminds you of the Shahul Hameed-Rahman combo of the Kizhakku Cheemayile days. Benny is sure to go places with his voice. Pa. Vijay’s lyrics strike the right chord. A song that’ll cater to the B and C centers. Watch out for this, if choreographed efficiently, might well take off!!



Verdict:

Now coming back to the question with which we started off this review. Thrown few challenges, great men are always certain to give it their best shot. Rahman has just about managed to do that. Delving on different genres, he has served variety within the limited space available. “Madras Mozart”, is clearly in form.

On the flip side, typical of a Rahman album, there is couple of songs that might take some time to catch on, but nevertheless, one which every Rahman and Vijay fan will be happy possessing.

Overall rating :