Mouna Ragam is an absolutely special movie and rightfully termed as a cult classic. The soundtrack is bejeweled with studs aplenty with each song showcasing some sort of brilliance or other. Also there is no describable level in which one can pay homage to the re-recording which elevates the scenes to such a meteoric manner.
On the occasion of it hitting 35 years since it's day of release on 15th Aug 1986, I just decided to try a small hand at playing bits of my 3 favorite pieces from this momentous soundtrack namely Pani Vizhum Iravu, Mandram Vandhu and Nila Ve Vaa. These just happen to be little phrases covering mostly the middle and opening portions and just randomly connecting the dots to straddle from one portion to another. It's just my humble attempt to say thank you to the movie, music and memories. Remembering 35 years of the magic that is Mouna Ragam.
Showing posts with label Maestro. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Maestro. Show all posts
Sunday, August 15, 2021
Monday, June 21, 2021
A Magnum Opus masterpiece - Poo Malaye Thol Serava
I was introduced to a major part of Maestro's music only much into the 2000s and one of the initial compositions that completely blew me bonkers was Poo Malaye Thol Serava from Pagal Nilavu. All sorts of pyrotechnics were happening and it seemed too unreal to be true.
This song taught me the meaning of counter point and how call & response lines should blend so bewitchingly. It feels like a western symphony smothered with a native element and the output created is nothing short of histrionic.
Have always been awestruck as to how these counter melodies keep going side by side with the harmony uniting to create such a picture perfect unison. This is song construction at such an astounding level. The song IMO can be used as a typical illustration to teach a finance student the effect of how synergies are construed from the various layers at play.
Today being World Music Day and all, I just tried attempting the prelude, postlude and interlude of this jaw dropping composition. This was difficult for me personally as it's way beyond my scope as the notes gallop and throttle around all over the place. But the sheer joy of attempting is what makes it worth it at the end of the day. #WorldMusicDay
Tuesday, April 21, 2020
Perfect Play of Beauty & Divinity - Sri Ranga Ranga Nathanin Padham
'Hamsadhwani' is an eternally ethereal ragam. It is a simple pentatonic scale comprising just 5 syllables 'Sa Ri2 Ga3 Pa Ni3' derived from Shankarabaranam but immanently feels like a variant of Kalyani as it is steeped in divinity which more or less falls in the heavenly hegemony of the latter. It has a contagious charm to it and seems like the apt scale to light up an occassion due to it's auspicious effect. Many of us have the habit of inaugurating any new work we begin with a Ganesha symbol and in the same vein most of the kritis pertaining to the Lord tend to usher in only from the resplendent and full of fervour ragam that is Hamsadhwani.
This particular song however is lyrically penned in veneration to Lord Sri Ranganatha Perumal. The Lord's birth star is believed to be Revathi Nakshatra and it's also the star in which Venus gets exalted rightfully at the feet of the Kalapurusha as that's where Goddess Lakshmi, consort of Vishnu is always set to reside and hence becomes extremely powerful. It's a perfect play of beauty and divinity going hand in hand.
The song Sri Ranga Ranga Nathanin though predominantly set in Hamsadhwani uses slight traces to deviate from the same especially in the pallavi portion. But however there is no such compromise in the charanam which is pristinely pure Hamsadhwani and you can starkly feel the essence of it in all it's glory. I attempted a small hand at the middle tranche of this number from where it connects back to the Pallavi. In no way is it anywhere near the verve that this number connotes but I've always wanted to try this miniscule segment out and on what better day I suppose than when the moon lit sky be adorned with the fulcrum of delicacy depicting Revathi Nakshatra invoking the divinity of Hamsadhwani raga and seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
This particular song however is lyrically penned in veneration to Lord Sri Ranganatha Perumal. The Lord's birth star is believed to be Revathi Nakshatra and it's also the star in which Venus gets exalted rightfully at the feet of the Kalapurusha as that's where Goddess Lakshmi, consort of Vishnu is always set to reside and hence becomes extremely powerful. It's a perfect play of beauty and divinity going hand in hand.
The song Sri Ranga Ranga Nathanin though predominantly set in Hamsadhwani uses slight traces to deviate from the same especially in the pallavi portion. But however there is no such compromise in the charanam which is pristinely pure Hamsadhwani and you can starkly feel the essence of it in all it's glory. I attempted a small hand at the middle tranche of this number from where it connects back to the Pallavi. In no way is it anywhere near the verve that this number connotes but I've always wanted to try this miniscule segment out and on what better day I suppose than when the moon lit sky be adorned with the fulcrum of delicacy depicting Revathi Nakshatra invoking the divinity of Hamsadhwani raga and seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Monday, April 20, 2020
Iconic Piece of Re-recording from Nayagan!
This is an iconic piece of re-recording from one of the most talked about movies in the annals of Indian cinema. There is something about this fleeting bit of music that spirals right through the center of the heart. The feel generated is so reverberative and filled to the brim with outpourings of passion. It just touches you so densely that you can actually sense the magic that is so captivating and inherently prevalent.
The BGM piece starts off with an arpeggio piece constantly whirring to give an intense emotion and then the melody unfolds played in a recorder with violins unfurling at the background in the form of a call & response pattern that will shake, stir and split the soul to smithereens. Just tried a couple of lines of this Magnum opus re-recording on the veena. It was certainly not possible to bring the desired effect but just a small takeaway that I tried 😊.
The BGM piece starts off with an arpeggio piece constantly whirring to give an intense emotion and then the melody unfolds played in a recorder with violins unfurling at the background in the form of a call & response pattern that will shake, stir and split the soul to smithereens. Just tried a couple of lines of this Magnum opus re-recording on the veena. It was certainly not possible to bring the desired effect but just a small takeaway that I tried 😊.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Truly Goosebumpy Raajaish Moments !!
A myriad of emotions are experienced when listening to IlaiyaRaaja songs.
Some of the feelings you get are innermost to your senses and so deep that it is really hard to describe them in words.
I often tend to think Goosebumps has become a very common and often over rated word and generally used at will to describe different feelings.
I myself am guilty on occassions but there are portions/parts in certain songs which makes you inexplicably get a Namalukku Ariyamalaye Vara feel.
Somehow more than the musically histrionic numbers , it is those simple folkish songs mostly in 3 beat cycle which gives that உணர்ச்சி.
Here are some of my truly Goosebumpy Raaja moments :
1) Oorelaam Un Paattu Dhaan - Oorelaam Un Paattu
Am a big fan of Swarnalatha's version of this song. There is so much of soul ingrained all over this number that you just can't help but falling in love with it..Especially that Charanam portion when she renders 'Aalam Vizhudhugal Pole Aadum Ninaivugal Pole' with the violins backing up in arrangement , pppppaaaaahhhhh that’s all you want to say.
2) Thaana Vandha Sandhaname - Ooru Vittu Ooru Vandhu
Another folkish beauty based on the Karaharapriya scale , this one is a total stunner every way you look at it ..The way the word "Thaana" is illuthified giving such a nice variation and the heavenly violins in the 1st interlude is complete Pularippu..
But the truly defining moment is in the Charanam area when SPB renders 'கொத்துமல்லி கொண்டையிலாட குளிà®°் பாà®°்வை வண்டுகளாட
புத்தம் புது செண்டுகளாட புது தாகம் தோணுà®®ே' - what an impact he generates by traversing from one octave to another twice back and forth (Ri--->Ri , Ni---->Ni) , totally out of the skin singing by Balu leaving you stumped.
3) Kuyil Paattu - En Rasavin Manasule
Another Swarnalatha favourite folkish number based on the monstrous Shivaranjini.Here the sound of the flute feels like the chirping of the birds. The true moment of reckoning arrives during the portion 'mannavanum pOgum paadhaiyil vaasamulla malligaippoo meththai virippaen'
You just feel this line appears suddenly out of the blue and parallelly with the violins at the background communicating the desired emotion leaves you with a lump in your heart. Totally unexpected and out of the box.
4) Raasave Unnai Nambi - Mudhal Mariyadhai
Example of feel good is defined in this song .. Avalo oru mey marandha feel kudukkum indha paattu. Janaki Amma kudukara feele thani .. Edho pannum especially andha portion 'Unakke vachirukken moochu Ethukku intha kadhi aachu' giving the perfect tranquil ambience.
5) Indha Maan - Karagatakkaran
Personal favourite - a song which transports you to another world. Vayathu ellaam kalakkum when the violins are injected in the first interlude Uchchathukku pora feel when Raaja sings 'anname ahhhh (alaap) anname endhan swarname' adhukku mela additionally oru violins movement apdiye vera ulagam koindu poyidum that very moment.
6) Malligaiye Malligaiye - Periya Veetu Panakkaran
A song very close to my heart - thaana oru palpable excitement varum whenever I listen to it. The starting violins tell you whats in store and the portions that follow just blows you away.
However the defining moment of awesomeness happens during the takeover of the flute in the first interlude , the way it carries the interlude on top of the Tabla rhythm and leads towards the Charanam is simply mesmerising. Napolean sir at his real best , this bit just makes you jump with joy. Used to have this bit as my ringtone - Sarasangi Bliss
Ringtone :
https://soundcloud.com/skrajiv/malligaiye-flute-interlude
Song :
7) Madhurai Maarikozhundhu Vaasam - Enga Ooru Paattukkaaran
A feeling of துள்ளல் comes in whenever you listen to this song making you sway away to the quintessential Ta Ki Ta rhythm.
What a delight it is to listen to the violins unfurl briefly before being subjected to the introduction of Shehnai piece suddenly giving a totally different color and again paving way for the violins to finish off in style.
Then comes the Charanam and when you feel the song to be moving in one direction , a sudden burst of energy is witnessed when Chitra renders 'vettu adhu unakku mattum dhaanaa' going on a full throttle jump forward to the next octave giving such a wonderful rippling effect making you feel relished.
8 ) Maanguyile Poonguyile - Karagatakkaaran
Speaking of folk , one just cannot ignore the gargantuan Maanguyile .. Eppo indha paattu ketaalum oru thani sugam.
The employment of flute , violins , Nadaswaram , Thavil etc make it a grand orchestral spectacle but not for a moment does it compromise on the soul of the song which is truly rustic and native.These are things which mind boggle you about Raaja as to how he paints the perfect caricature in his own inimitable style according to the desired setting not diluting the essence at the slightest.
The most bamboozling part of this song however is the twist in the Charanam when SPB sings 'yaereduththu paaththu yemmaa neereduththu ooththu' - where a new note (Periya Gandharam) is introduced for the first time creating an unexpected sparkling chiaroscura making you completely bedazzled.
This note is not introduced till that part and when it is what a marvellous transmogrification it brings to the table enhancing the song to an alltogether different level.
9) Shenbagame Shenbagame - Enga Ooru Paattukkaran
This song in Sindhu Bhairavi ragam is inundated , soaked and embellished completely with soul in abundance , just the initial Alaap by Asha Bhosle gives such a magical feel and on top of it the portions of flute resonate and the violins tug at your heart strings stirring your emotions.
When Ashaji finishes the Charanam by singing 'ennoda pattu satham serum unna pinnale eppodhum unnathottu paadaporen munnale' , such an ineffable feel is generated making you truly lost for words.
10) Un Paarvaiyil - Amman Kovil Kizhakaale
Ennavo oru power irukku indha paattula , every next time you listen the more you tend to fall in love with it.
Raaja dumbfounds by taking a Hindustani based scale for a village setting and the output he creates is simply bewitching and breathtaking.
Every part of the song just makes you go bonkers but if you have to pick that one hair raising moment it is that flute portion in the second interlude.It just automatically brings a smile to your face and you just don't know what to say but if you have to describe this beauty in a single word maybe you can say its supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.
Another flute bit i pride on having as a ringtone.
Ringtone :
https://soundcloud.com/skrajiv/un-paarvaiyil-oraayiram-flute
Song :
Its unbeleivable to think how Raaja impacts and transcends our lives by churning out songs which truly touch the soul.
He is not just a composer but a Vaggeyakara and a rare breed.
Whether one is a Pati Thotti Rasigan or a musical connoisseur , Raaja connects everyone through his soul infusing music.
There is that amazing power in his music which just makes you forget yourself and be completely hypnotised to his music.
And thats precisely the most significant reason which makes his music truly special and in a league of its own.
#RaajaConnect #Goosebumpy
Some of the feelings you get are innermost to your senses and so deep that it is really hard to describe them in words.
I often tend to think Goosebumps has become a very common and often over rated word and generally used at will to describe different feelings.
I myself am guilty on occassions but there are portions/parts in certain songs which makes you inexplicably get a Namalukku Ariyamalaye Vara feel.
Somehow more than the musically histrionic numbers , it is those simple folkish songs mostly in 3 beat cycle which gives that உணர்ச்சி.
Here are some of my truly Goosebumpy Raaja moments :
1) Oorelaam Un Paattu Dhaan - Oorelaam Un Paattu
Am a big fan of Swarnalatha's version of this song. There is so much of soul ingrained all over this number that you just can't help but falling in love with it..Especially that Charanam portion when she renders 'Aalam Vizhudhugal Pole Aadum Ninaivugal Pole' with the violins backing up in arrangement , pppppaaaaahhhhh that’s all you want to say.
2) Thaana Vandha Sandhaname - Ooru Vittu Ooru Vandhu
Another folkish beauty based on the Karaharapriya scale , this one is a total stunner every way you look at it ..The way the word "Thaana" is illuthified giving such a nice variation and the heavenly violins in the 1st interlude is complete Pularippu..
But the truly defining moment is in the Charanam area when SPB renders 'கொத்துமல்லி கொண்டையிலாட குளிà®°் பாà®°்வை வண்டுகளாட
புத்தம் புது செண்டுகளாட புது தாகம் தோணுà®®ே' - what an impact he generates by traversing from one octave to another twice back and forth (Ri--->Ri , Ni---->Ni) , totally out of the skin singing by Balu leaving you stumped.
3) Kuyil Paattu - En Rasavin Manasule
Another Swarnalatha favourite folkish number based on the monstrous Shivaranjini.Here the sound of the flute feels like the chirping of the birds. The true moment of reckoning arrives during the portion 'mannavanum pOgum paadhaiyil vaasamulla malligaippoo meththai virippaen'
You just feel this line appears suddenly out of the blue and parallelly with the violins at the background communicating the desired emotion leaves you with a lump in your heart. Totally unexpected and out of the box.
4) Raasave Unnai Nambi - Mudhal Mariyadhai
Example of feel good is defined in this song .. Avalo oru mey marandha feel kudukkum indha paattu. Janaki Amma kudukara feele thani .. Edho pannum especially andha portion 'Unakke vachirukken moochu Ethukku intha kadhi aachu' giving the perfect tranquil ambience.
5) Indha Maan - Karagatakkaran
Personal favourite - a song which transports you to another world. Vayathu ellaam kalakkum when the violins are injected in the first interlude Uchchathukku pora feel when Raaja sings 'anname ahhhh (alaap) anname endhan swarname' adhukku mela additionally oru violins movement apdiye vera ulagam koindu poyidum that very moment.
6) Malligaiye Malligaiye - Periya Veetu Panakkaran
A song very close to my heart - thaana oru palpable excitement varum whenever I listen to it. The starting violins tell you whats in store and the portions that follow just blows you away.
However the defining moment of awesomeness happens during the takeover of the flute in the first interlude , the way it carries the interlude on top of the Tabla rhythm and leads towards the Charanam is simply mesmerising. Napolean sir at his real best , this bit just makes you jump with joy. Used to have this bit as my ringtone - Sarasangi Bliss
Ringtone :
https://soundcloud.com/skrajiv/malligaiye-flute-interlude
Song :
7) Madhurai Maarikozhundhu Vaasam - Enga Ooru Paattukkaaran
A feeling of துள்ளல் comes in whenever you listen to this song making you sway away to the quintessential Ta Ki Ta rhythm.
What a delight it is to listen to the violins unfurl briefly before being subjected to the introduction of Shehnai piece suddenly giving a totally different color and again paving way for the violins to finish off in style.
Then comes the Charanam and when you feel the song to be moving in one direction , a sudden burst of energy is witnessed when Chitra renders 'vettu adhu unakku mattum dhaanaa' going on a full throttle jump forward to the next octave giving such a wonderful rippling effect making you feel relished.
8 ) Maanguyile Poonguyile - Karagatakkaaran
Speaking of folk , one just cannot ignore the gargantuan Maanguyile .. Eppo indha paattu ketaalum oru thani sugam.
The employment of flute , violins , Nadaswaram , Thavil etc make it a grand orchestral spectacle but not for a moment does it compromise on the soul of the song which is truly rustic and native.These are things which mind boggle you about Raaja as to how he paints the perfect caricature in his own inimitable style according to the desired setting not diluting the essence at the slightest.
The most bamboozling part of this song however is the twist in the Charanam when SPB sings 'yaereduththu paaththu yemmaa neereduththu ooththu' - where a new note (Periya Gandharam) is introduced for the first time creating an unexpected sparkling chiaroscura making you completely bedazzled.
This note is not introduced till that part and when it is what a marvellous transmogrification it brings to the table enhancing the song to an alltogether different level.
9) Shenbagame Shenbagame - Enga Ooru Paattukkaran
This song in Sindhu Bhairavi ragam is inundated , soaked and embellished completely with soul in abundance , just the initial Alaap by Asha Bhosle gives such a magical feel and on top of it the portions of flute resonate and the violins tug at your heart strings stirring your emotions.
When Ashaji finishes the Charanam by singing 'ennoda pattu satham serum unna pinnale eppodhum unnathottu paadaporen munnale' , such an ineffable feel is generated making you truly lost for words.
10) Un Paarvaiyil - Amman Kovil Kizhakaale
Ennavo oru power irukku indha paattula , every next time you listen the more you tend to fall in love with it.
Raaja dumbfounds by taking a Hindustani based scale for a village setting and the output he creates is simply bewitching and breathtaking.
Every part of the song just makes you go bonkers but if you have to pick that one hair raising moment it is that flute portion in the second interlude.It just automatically brings a smile to your face and you just don't know what to say but if you have to describe this beauty in a single word maybe you can say its supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.
Another flute bit i pride on having as a ringtone.
Ringtone :
https://soundcloud.com/skrajiv/un-paarvaiyil-oraayiram-flute
Song :
Its unbeleivable to think how Raaja impacts and transcends our lives by churning out songs which truly touch the soul.
He is not just a composer but a Vaggeyakara and a rare breed.
Whether one is a Pati Thotti Rasigan or a musical connoisseur , Raaja connects everyone through his soul infusing music.
There is that amazing power in his music which just makes you forget yourself and be completely hypnotised to his music.
And thats precisely the most significant reason which makes his music truly special and in a league of its own.
#RaajaConnect #Goosebumpy
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Redux of Aatama Therottama song in A Totally New Different Avatar !!
One is lengthier in duration , other is short
One is fast paced , other is slow
One is zestful and energetic , other is soulful and sweet
One is in Chatushra Nadai , Other in Tisra Nadai
One is a song , other is a BGM bit
Despite the diversities they happen to be one and the same
They both happen to be the song Äatama Therotama" from the movie "Captain Prabhakaran".
The former is the actual popular song which can be listened from the below link
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlBVLXaslHU
The latter is a small re-recording bit which appears as part of the movie.
Link to listen to the BGM portion
https://soundcloud.com/skrajiv/aatama-therottama-bgm-bit
One is fast paced , other is slow
One is zestful and energetic , other is soulful and sweet
One is in Chatushra Nadai , Other in Tisra Nadai
One is a song , other is a BGM bit
Despite the diversities they happen to be one and the same
They both happen to be the song Äatama Therotama" from the movie "Captain Prabhakaran".
The former is the actual popular song which can be listened from the below link
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlBVLXaslHU
The latter is a small re-recording bit which appears as part of the movie.
Link to listen to the BGM portion
https://soundcloud.com/skrajiv/aatama-therottama-bgm-bit
Friday, October 28, 2011
Celebrating 33 years of Sigappu Rojakkal !!
Sigappu Rojakkal released this day on 28th Oct 1978.
Before this film,it was believed that Raaja was clubbed by the name 'Gramathu Raja' and he was criticized that he was suitable only for folk/village based songs. But it was with this movie and later Priya which released a month later that Raaja truly showcased his repertoire by unleashing some stunning WCM based songs/re-recordings and proving that he was more than just a one genre wonder and make the critics eat humble pie.
This movie in a way is a cornerstone in Maestro's career.
Just 2 songs tuned for this movie but both had the stamp of class written all over it and to this day it remains the favourite of many a Maestro fan.
The movie directed by BharathiRaja was a psycho thriller and much ahead of its times . A gripping entertainer Kamal Hassan as the Mysterious Businessman 'Dileep' and Sridevi as Salesgirl 'Sharada' remain etched in memory.
A truly landmark movie in all respects.
Before this film,it was believed that Raaja was clubbed by the name 'Gramathu Raja' and he was criticized that he was suitable only for folk/village based songs. But it was with this movie and later Priya which released a month later that Raaja truly showcased his repertoire by unleashing some stunning WCM based songs/re-recordings and proving that he was more than just a one genre wonder and make the critics eat humble pie.
This movie in a way is a cornerstone in Maestro's career.
Just 2 songs tuned for this movie but both had the stamp of class written all over it and to this day it remains the favourite of many a Maestro fan.
The movie directed by BharathiRaja was a psycho thriller and much ahead of its times . A gripping entertainer Kamal Hassan as the Mysterious Businessman 'Dileep' and Sridevi as Salesgirl 'Sharada' remain etched in memory.
A truly landmark movie in all respects.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Raaja - The Boss of Bass!
Bass generally means sounds at a lower frequency. They act like a harmonizing effect to the main melody. In Raaja's case, the bass by itself sounds so rich and when combined with the song it reaches proportions of enormity. Raja's usage of Bass is unparalleled and his idea of composing bass is an experiment by itself. Let's take a look at some of his bass based bazooka bastions.
1) Devanin Koil Moodiya Neram - Aruvadai Naal
One of the first songs which pierced my heart with absolutely breathtaking Bass is Devanin Koil Moodiya Neram. The song opens up with some wonderful chanting by Maestro. When Chitra sings in her super sweet melodious voice, its hard not to notice the Bass seeping up in parallel from the other side and providing ample harmonic backing transcending the song to an all time high. Its a feeling of ecstasy listening to this composition. Bliss of the highest order!
2) Vaan Megam - Punnagai Mannan
Talking about Bass, its tough to look beyond this stunner! This is epitome of Bassness personified. The bass track by itself is mind boggling and goes twinkling along on its own merry way. I somehow feel Raja's bass in Rain songs is extra special and they sound like the nectar filled droplets. A hallmark song in Maestro's career. Every time you feel so refreshed and rejuvenated listening to this. A composition which makes you absolutely stupefied.
3) Dhegam Pon Dhegam - Anbulla Malare
A super hard hitting Bass Track. It happens to be a very rare song in an hitherto rare ragam Revagupti rendered absolutely masterfully by S Janaki with the bass beautifully complementing
and painting the perfect picture throughout the song. Enigmatic, Erotic & Enthralling!
4) Penmaane Sangeetham - Naan Sigappu Manidhan
Sometimes i wonder as to why he even writes a Bass track for these sweet sacharine Shankarabaranam kinda melodies like Penmaane Sangeetham? The song already sounds so melodious and you tend to think what else do you need and then you realize that you missed out on the lovely breezy Bass Guitar which goes by the side as S Janaki does the humming that is simply unimaginable. To even imagine that so much is packed in a mere 4 1/2 mins makes you truly wonder 'What this man is made of'.
5) Aala Asathum - Kanni Raasi
A classic in Chalnaatai, this one's a bombshell. Check out the finesse bass touches (surprising it includes a lot of Ma2 in the form of a bass chromatic which goes Ga2 Ma1 Ma2 Pa which does not form part of the Chalnaatai scale, but the result is wow). In the 1st interlude the Bass seems to act as the counterpoint partner to the main melody. A song which lifts your spirits and makes you go full throttle. Freeflowing freakoutness!
6) Chinna Chinna Vannakuyil - Mouna Ragam
This song from this evergreen movie simply has a superlative bass track. A song not very popular as the other tracks in this masterful album but the bass here is absolutely gob smacking stuff . Have always been fascinated by the Bass track making it have a special place in my heart.
7) Megam Kottatum - Enakkul Oruvan
The bazz bedazzles and makes you dance joyfully in the rain. The bass lines are a sheer delight and they flow in their own merry way. Awesomeness beyond Awesomeness. Enjoy the Pouring Rains with this bass beauty.
1) Devanin Koil Moodiya Neram - Aruvadai Naal
One of the first songs which pierced my heart with absolutely breathtaking Bass is Devanin Koil Moodiya Neram. The song opens up with some wonderful chanting by Maestro. When Chitra sings in her super sweet melodious voice, its hard not to notice the Bass seeping up in parallel from the other side and providing ample harmonic backing transcending the song to an all time high. Its a feeling of ecstasy listening to this composition. Bliss of the highest order!
2) Vaan Megam - Punnagai Mannan
Talking about Bass, its tough to look beyond this stunner! This is epitome of Bassness personified. The bass track by itself is mind boggling and goes twinkling along on its own merry way. I somehow feel Raja's bass in Rain songs is extra special and they sound like the nectar filled droplets. A hallmark song in Maestro's career. Every time you feel so refreshed and rejuvenated listening to this. A composition which makes you absolutely stupefied.
3) Dhegam Pon Dhegam - Anbulla Malare
A super hard hitting Bass Track. It happens to be a very rare song in an hitherto rare ragam Revagupti rendered absolutely masterfully by S Janaki with the bass beautifully complementing
and painting the perfect picture throughout the song. Enigmatic, Erotic & Enthralling!
4) Penmaane Sangeetham - Naan Sigappu Manidhan
Sometimes i wonder as to why he even writes a Bass track for these sweet sacharine Shankarabaranam kinda melodies like Penmaane Sangeetham? The song already sounds so melodious and you tend to think what else do you need and then you realize that you missed out on the lovely breezy Bass Guitar which goes by the side as S Janaki does the humming that is simply unimaginable. To even imagine that so much is packed in a mere 4 1/2 mins makes you truly wonder 'What this man is made of'.
5) Aala Asathum - Kanni Raasi
A classic in Chalnaatai, this one's a bombshell. Check out the finesse bass touches (surprising it includes a lot of Ma2 in the form of a bass chromatic which goes Ga2 Ma1 Ma2 Pa which does not form part of the Chalnaatai scale, but the result is wow). In the 1st interlude the Bass seems to act as the counterpoint partner to the main melody. A song which lifts your spirits and makes you go full throttle. Freeflowing freakoutness!
6) Chinna Chinna Vannakuyil - Mouna Ragam
This song from this evergreen movie simply has a superlative bass track. A song not very popular as the other tracks in this masterful album but the bass here is absolutely gob smacking stuff . Have always been fascinated by the Bass track making it have a special place in my heart.
7) Megam Kottatum - Enakkul Oruvan
The bazz bedazzles and makes you dance joyfully in the rain. The bass lines are a sheer delight and they flow in their own merry way. Awesomeness beyond Awesomeness. Enjoy the Pouring Rains with this bass beauty.
You just cannot but not drooooolllll over this Bass Beauty. Simply Superb and lost for words.
A Bass beauty, its just impossible not to tap your feet when listening to this one. Bass magic written all over the soul.
Anjali Anjali cannot be classified under one genre alone, its a spectacle in every way and is a song which is always addictive and I can listen to this riveting Shankarabaranam any moment any time of the day. There is some wonderful bass throughout the song and especially notice the portion from 01:53 to 01:59 where there is an absolutely breathtaking Bass played along the notes Pa Ga Ma Ri Ga Sa Pa Sa. Also there is a nice bass playing the notes Pa Ni Sa Ga (repeat twice) and then Pa Pa' Ri' Ni when the lyrics go Nadakum Nadakum. Can listen to this song a gazillion times and feel so ecstatic still listening to it the next time.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Remembering the Legend - Malaysia Vasudevan
As the Film Industry bemoans the sad demise of the great Malaysia Vasudevan(MV),its time to look back and go on a nostalgic trip paying homage to this wonderful man,his wide repertoire of songs and his diction over the Tamizh language.I have handpicked a few songs from his massive ouevre which are my personal favourites of MV and also which truly showcases his versatility.
Like the Trinity of Carnatic Music - Thiyagarajar,Dikshitar and Shyama Shastri and the woman trinity of Carnatic Music - MS Subbhalakshmi,D K Pattamal and ML Vasanthakumari,I firmly beleive MV rightfully earns his place in the trinity of Male Playback singing,the others obviously being SP Balasubramanian(SPB) and K J Yesudas(KJY).Though MV never really had the quantum of hits that his illustrious counterparts had,what defined MV was his uniqueness and enigmatic voice.Apart from the songs sung by SPB and KJY for Maestro Ilaiyaraja,there was another special category of songs which undoubtedly no one could do justice but the great MV.Songs characterized by resonance,mystiqueness,enigmaticness etc and MV perfectly enhanced the artistry of these numbers through his melifluous voice.
Now coming to my personal 10 favourite songs.
1) Song:Indha Minminikku
Film:Sigappu Rojakkal (1978)
MV and S Janaki(SJ) really freak out in this number.MV adding the perfect foil to SJ's humming/singing/laughing:),the chiaroscura is beautiful to witness and at the same time individually nonchalantly roaring through the entire song with his razor sharp vocals.Can anyone imagine this song was composed just 33 years ago?:).Well that truly explains the stuff of legends.
2) Song:Oru Thangarathathil
Film:Dharma Yudham (1979)
Here MV croons for the Superstar.Just when you hear the prelude,you can guess its a melodious number and Malaysia accentuates ir further with his soulful timbre laden voice.The old world charm and the profoundness is deeply visible.
3) Song:Kalangal Malai Kalangal
Film:Idhayathil Oru Idam (1980)
An outstanding composition unfortunately not heard by many.MV at his fervent best,the shrill in his voice especially in the pronounciation of 'Kal' is so captivating.The dulcet tone of SJ and the magnificient interludes,not to forget the unbelievable prelude which reaches a crescendo truly make this a stunner of a song.
4) Song:Alli Thanda Bhoomy
Film:Nandu (1981)
No two words about this one,its an absolute gem.A song which evokes a feeling of transporting you to another world.You can just press the Repeat button and go to your dream world.Based in Pahadi Raag,the song reaches undizzying heights after the Pallavi with the alternation of the 2 Ma's Suddha Madhyam and Prati Madhyam and especially when Malaysia sings 'ilamai ninaivai isaikkum therukkal' where the Prati Madhyam tenderly kisses the Suddha Madhyam literally gives goosebumps.
5) Song:Kodai Kala Katre
Film:Panneer Pushpangal (1981)
Well obviously! This is the song which epitomises Malaysia,the 1st song which comes to most people's mind when you think of MV.The nous with which he songs this song is so reposeful and calmness personified.The whole melange of MV'S easeness,the choral parts,the hypnotising Prelude,scale changes,soothing effect etc etc is undeniably sheer magic.
6) Song:Endrendrum Anandhame
Film:Kadal Meengal (1981)
MV well literally grooves,swings,rocks,zings,dances in this one.The Maestro plays around with Accoustics and Rhythms.Malaysia plays around with his voice.The result the listeners are treated to a sheer blissful experience.
7) Song:Poove Ilaya Poove
Film:Kozhi Koovuthu (1982)
Ilaya Malaysia at the forefront.A Raja song in Shankarabharanam,you can be rest assured that the song will be high on melodic content and obviously he doesn't disappoint.The Sangfroidness and control with which Malaysia goes about his job is amazing.It is wow to hear him sing Ennakku Thaane where he just gives that extra kick to his voice.
8) Song:Aasai Nooruvagai
Film:Adutha Vaarisu (1983)
Another rocking super song this time for the Superstar.Foot tapping is too small a word to describe this Dance Number.The trio of Superstar,Maestro and Malaysia virtually structure an edifice.:)
9) Song:Poonkathu Thirumbumma
Film:Mudhal Mariyadhai (1985)
If you are including Kamal and Rajini songs,how could you leave the thespian Sivaji out?:) This gargantuan song won Malaysia accolades of encomiums and rightfully so.He clearly displays why this song in the folk and rustic genre is an arcane act to follow.
10) Song:Ennamma Kannu
Film:Mr Bharat (1986)
A fun song to end it.Malaysia juxtaposing with SPB in a duet and you are treated with full on entertainment.Its like a walk in the park for the 2 veterans but the efficacy with which they dish out this number is infectitious. The breezy bass entwines around the vocals and joins in the fun.A mere delight.
It was indeed a joy ride choosing the songs. A heady mix of unknown and popular songs but each one embossed steeply with richness and brilliance! Malaysia Sir, hoping your subtle and tender voice will be heard for generations and generations to come!
Like the Trinity of Carnatic Music - Thiyagarajar,Dikshitar and Shyama Shastri and the woman trinity of Carnatic Music - MS Subbhalakshmi,D K Pattamal and ML Vasanthakumari,I firmly beleive MV rightfully earns his place in the trinity of Male Playback singing,the others obviously being SP Balasubramanian(SPB) and K J Yesudas(KJY).Though MV never really had the quantum of hits that his illustrious counterparts had,what defined MV was his uniqueness and enigmatic voice.Apart from the songs sung by SPB and KJY for Maestro Ilaiyaraja,there was another special category of songs which undoubtedly no one could do justice but the great MV.Songs characterized by resonance,mystiqueness,enigmaticness etc and MV perfectly enhanced the artistry of these numbers through his melifluous voice.
Now coming to my personal 10 favourite songs.
1) Song:Indha Minminikku
Film:Sigappu Rojakkal (1978)
MV and S Janaki(SJ) really freak out in this number.MV adding the perfect foil to SJ's humming/singing/laughing:),the chiaroscura is beautiful to witness and at the same time individually nonchalantly roaring through the entire song with his razor sharp vocals.Can anyone imagine this song was composed just 33 years ago?:).Well that truly explains the stuff of legends.
2) Song:Oru Thangarathathil
Film:Dharma Yudham (1979)
Here MV croons for the Superstar.Just when you hear the prelude,you can guess its a melodious number and Malaysia accentuates ir further with his soulful timbre laden voice.The old world charm and the profoundness is deeply visible.
3) Song:Kalangal Malai Kalangal
Film:Idhayathil Oru Idam (1980)
An outstanding composition unfortunately not heard by many.MV at his fervent best,the shrill in his voice especially in the pronounciation of 'Kal' is so captivating.The dulcet tone of SJ and the magnificient interludes,not to forget the unbelievable prelude which reaches a crescendo truly make this a stunner of a song.
4) Song:Alli Thanda Bhoomy
Film:Nandu (1981)
No two words about this one,its an absolute gem.A song which evokes a feeling of transporting you to another world.You can just press the Repeat button and go to your dream world.Based in Pahadi Raag,the song reaches undizzying heights after the Pallavi with the alternation of the 2 Ma's Suddha Madhyam and Prati Madhyam and especially when Malaysia sings 'ilamai ninaivai isaikkum therukkal' where the Prati Madhyam tenderly kisses the Suddha Madhyam literally gives goosebumps.
5) Song:Kodai Kala Katre
Film:Panneer Pushpangal (1981)
Well obviously! This is the song which epitomises Malaysia,the 1st song which comes to most people's mind when you think of MV.The nous with which he songs this song is so reposeful and calmness personified.The whole melange of MV'S easeness,the choral parts,the hypnotising Prelude,scale changes,soothing effect etc etc is undeniably sheer magic.
6) Song:Endrendrum Anandhame
Film:Kadal Meengal (1981)
MV well literally grooves,swings,rocks,zings,dances in this one.The Maestro plays around with Accoustics and Rhythms.Malaysia plays around with his voice.The result the listeners are treated to a sheer blissful experience.
7) Song:Poove Ilaya Poove
Film:Kozhi Koovuthu (1982)
Ilaya Malaysia at the forefront.A Raja song in Shankarabharanam,you can be rest assured that the song will be high on melodic content and obviously he doesn't disappoint.The Sangfroidness and control with which Malaysia goes about his job is amazing.It is wow to hear him sing Ennakku Thaane where he just gives that extra kick to his voice.
8) Song:Aasai Nooruvagai
Film:Adutha Vaarisu (1983)
Another rocking super song this time for the Superstar.Foot tapping is too small a word to describe this Dance Number.The trio of Superstar,Maestro and Malaysia virtually structure an edifice.:)
9) Song:Poonkathu Thirumbumma
Film:Mudhal Mariyadhai (1985)
If you are including Kamal and Rajini songs,how could you leave the thespian Sivaji out?:) This gargantuan song won Malaysia accolades of encomiums and rightfully so.He clearly displays why this song in the folk and rustic genre is an arcane act to follow.
10) Song:Ennamma Kannu
Film:Mr Bharat (1986)
A fun song to end it.Malaysia juxtaposing with SPB in a duet and you are treated with full on entertainment.Its like a walk in the park for the 2 veterans but the efficacy with which they dish out this number is infectitious. The breezy bass entwines around the vocals and joins in the fun.A mere delight.
It was indeed a joy ride choosing the songs. A heady mix of unknown and popular songs but each one embossed steeply with richness and brilliance! Malaysia Sir, hoping your subtle and tender voice will be heard for generations and generations to come!
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