Karigipoyaano

withwithSong: Karigipoyaanu
Movie Name : Marana Mrudangam
Singers : SPB, Susheela
Music Director : Illayaraja
  I heard this song after a lot of time and got goosebumps immediately. What a fantastic composition! I think right from the prelude, as soon as the flute bit ends leading to the synth intro, the song mesmerizes me. If that wasnt enough, wait till the end of the first line "Karigipoyaanu karpoora veena laa.." which is followed again by the synth notes that add the mysterious touch to the song. the king of melody that he is, Illayaraja follows this theme beautifully in to the charanams with captivating interludes. If I had one complaint about this song, it would be that SPB's parts in this song seem a little low-pitched, but with Susheela's voice and talent, this is an unforgettable number!

Vaanam Mella

Song: Vaanam Mella
Movie Name : Neethane En Ponvasantham
Singers : Illayaraja, Bala Shende
Music Director : Illayaraja
  It is a happy coincidence that my return to this blog is with another song from Illayaraja sung by Illayaraja. Vaanam Mella brings back such pleasant memories of "Thendral Vanthu" from Avatharam. I am mostly glad that Illayaraja chose to do one more song in this genre (if I might call it a genre). This was the instantly like-able number for me in this movie and it looks like Illayaraja's voice is growing on me in the recent past. It seems like he is at ease singing this song yet hitting all the right nuances that make this song enjoyable. I am sure I will get over this song after a few listens to this album (and pick up another song from the movie), but right now this is the moment to enjoy Raaja's return to mainstream cinema.

Thaavi thaavi

Song: Thaavi thaavi
Movie Name : Dhoni
Singers : Illayaraja
Music Director : Illayaraja

This song is yet another brilliant addition to the list of Illayaraja's brilliant compositions. What is special about this song for me, is the added value that Illayaraja's vocals bring to this song. There is a lot of simplicity in Illayaraja's voice but at the same time his voice adds a lot of nuances to this song, which might have otherwise been lost. My favorite part of this song is the end of each charanam, where Illayaraja adds his trademark magical touch and restates that he is still the master of the game!

Kannazhaga

Song: Kannazhaga
Movie Name : Moonu
Singers :  Dhanush, Shruti Hassan
Music Director : Anirudh

   Right from the beginning as Shruti Hassan transitions from  

kannazhaga..kaalazhaga. pon azhaga..pen aazhaga

 to  

engeyo thedi sellum viral azhaga, you know that this song is something special.  

    Anirudh proves that he is not a one-song wonder in this album with some soulful music. Kannazhaga belongs to Shruti Hassan and the dreamy music arrangements. Even with the sad overtones and Dhanush's vocals, this song manages to make a clear impact.