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Modhi Vilayadu by Hariharan & Leslie Lewis is undoubtedly an album (Tamil) much ahead of its time. It has a total of 6 songs, almost all with no synthesized music, in other words minimal use of electronica and more authentic instruments (folk and Western. However each and every song has got a haunting melody which sometimes is so easy on ears and sometimes requires our utmost concentration and attention to consume the complete beauty it offers. For casual listeners, such songs could bring some yawn but if you are patient enough, this is definitely an album to be cherished by all music lovers.
Vellaikaari - A very peppy 80s style song with a lot of Colonial Cousins feel to it. The songs has a unique fusion of pop, rap and classical music. Hariharans' voice and passionate singing in the song will definitely mesmerize you.
Otrai vaarthayil - Though the melody is ordinary. It has some beautiful back drops.. the musical portion like with opening strings and the guitar and the piano to follow. Beautiful! The song does at times seems to remind you of Kadu Thirandhu from Vasool Raja. It could be of the same raga (not sure) I say that because in one of the interviews aired on Republic day by Sun TV Hari mentions ( in the presence of Saran ) that Saran was very inclined to certain ragas and you can always hear it in all his film songs.
Chikki mukki - A very romantic song expressing lust with choice of words and singing. The highlight is when Hariharan enters with a mind blowing aalap. The aalap alone brings the whole feel of the song in a swift!
Latcham vaarthaigal -Brilliant composition and good singing (voice texture and attitude) .. it is a very situational song it seems will have to see the movie.
Modhi Vilaydu - The tune, rhythm, lyrics as well as Hariharan and Deva’s attitude highlights a joyful, go get - be a winner feel. A very catchy song with loud bangs and attitude.
Paadhi Kaadhal - My pick of the album, this songs loosely based on raga Charukesi ( correct me if wrong)is one of a kind. Hariharan & Leslie has restricted the vocal melody mostly to that of Hindustani-Ghazal with typical vibrations, expressions and wavering of notes and the rhythm part mostly to Western-Jazz feel with not avoiding the Indian Instruments like Thavil and sticks to that of jazzy blues. Sunitha Sarathy excels with the western portion showcasing great attitude and dynamics. Bombay Jeyashree is simply awesome!! What a combination. I would have loved to hear Hari sing this song but oh well I guess cant ask for it all ;)
Overall 4/5 Must Buy!!!
Posted by : Jegan
Date :Friday, May 1, 2009
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