to the gal who never forgets birthdays!
Many happy returns, Visithra! May everyone keep thinking forever, that u are 22!
When ARR and Mani Ratnam work together, you expect nothing short of a masterpiece. And when Gulzar joins in, the expectations are bound to raise. And, the trio strike gold yet again, after Dil Se!
1. Barso Re
The song starts with base strings. Then Shreya Ghosal teases with "naa re.. naa re". Naveen joins in with playful flute bits. And the teasing continues. U know u are in for a treat!
Apart from Shreya, the other star in the song is Naveen's Flute. Apart from the brilliant starting and the first interlude (which I think is one of the best interludes in recent times), Naveen also joins Shreya in the second stanza (Kaali Kaali raatein...) taking it to a whole new level!
Rahman gives a sweet melody backed by foot tapping beats. He has this knack of perfectly blending western sounds with Indian music - even in folk and village songs - like he did in Bharathi Raja's Taj Mahal. He does it here too! The electronic drums and the synth sounds do not in any way deteriorate the rustic flavour in this song. In fact, coupled with the the awesome lyrics, u can actually visualise the village, the rains pouring all over the streets and ponds, the wet soil, the bulls in the fields (the "chal chal chal" sound throughout the song will reminds u of the bullock carts in villages).
Highlights of the song are the starting 'conversation' between Shreya and Naveen's Flute, the flute interlude, and Uday Mazumdar's cameo.
2. Tere Bina
Rahman loves doing sufi-based songs, and excels at them. And, here's one more to the list, sung by Rahman himself. In this song which ARR has dedicated to late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, ARR does sound like NFAK in some places. Rahman has grown a lot with respect to his singing, and he improves a lot with each song. Waiting for him to win a "best singer" award in the future!!
Chinmayi is absolutely splendid in this song. Her voice is so different and the diction is perfect. Having trained in Hindustani and having won AIR national level Ghazal contests, this must have been easy for her! You get more surprises towards the end of the song, when she sings a line in a very different base voice. Read what Chinmayi had to say about this song, here.
The guitar backing throughout the song creates that richness. Yet another masterpiece from Rahman, and a wonderful dedication to NFAK.
Highlight of the song is the "Dham Dhara" refrain.
3. Ek Lo, Ek Muft
A fun bhang song. Totally situational number - Abhishek singing this to celebrate the birth of twins. Gulzaar's funny lyrics and Bappi Lahiri's 'intoxicated' rendition perfectly match for this song. And then, a female voice joins in - And it is Chitra in a whole new dimension!
The "joiyya joiyya" chorus is really funny and makes me laugh each time I listen to this song. Just love the way the beat changes in the middle of the "joiyya joiyya laado...", in the second interlude (2:54).
Highlights of the song - definitely the female chorus, and of course "Meri Gudiya...Guruuuuuu ki gudiya" (4:07-4:17), with Chitra acknowledging the "meri gudiya" with a "hmmm". Yet another instance to show ARR's attention to minutest of details!
4. Maiyya Maiyya
When the song is an item number to be picturised on Mallika Sherawat, the voice has to be sensous. Rahman brings in Egyptian born Canadian singer Maryem Toller, and she simply rocks in this song. The Arabic and Egyptian influence in her rendition simply boosts the song. Chinmayee and Keerthi join in with whispering chorus from time to time. You think this is fully Arabic, when the Gujarati flavour comes in - this is supposed to be Junior B and his friends joining Mallika in the middle of the song.
Listen to this song in headphones for a wonderful treat, for this song is filled with numerous layers. Also, the music keeps moving from left to right to left, which can't be experienced fully unless u use headphones.
5. Ay Hairat-e-Aashiqui
The song starts with a accordion piece (played by ARR himself using his newly purchased Accordion, which he bought for this song). The "dham dhara" refrain from Tere Bina takes over along with tabla. And then, Hariharan joins in with his magical voice, backed by absolutely soothing strings and harmonium. Till about 1:55, u think this is a total Ghazal - but u are in for a huge surprise - fast beats and a western sounding interludes take over. And then it is back to the tabla! What's really breathtaking is the transition, which Rahman manages in style. Mellifluous Alka starts singing "Kyun Urdu Faarsi bolte ho" which is just out of the world!
Highlight of the song is when the tabla stops when Hari stops at "jagaa mat" (1:02) and "lagaa mat" (1:11). Rahman proves that not just sound but even the lack of it, is music!
Not often does it happen that a song sung by ARR takes a backseat in my favourites list in an album. This song overtakes Tere Bina. It is definitely one of the sweetest duets in a long time!
6. Baazi Laga
Sung by Udit and Madhushree, this track is a typical 80s number, with fast beats and heavy instrumentation. The interludes, the chorus, instrumentation - everything reminds us of that period. This is the song that might not be picturised or might be pushed to background like Dol Dol (Yuva).
Highlight of the song is the "La La La" (3:03 - 3:25).
7. Jaage Hain
A lullaby, which is like the theme of the movie. Mani Ratnam mentioned in an interview that this track will be there through out the movie.
The track starts off slowly with Chitra singing "Jaage hain", followed by the strings and the chorus. When everything else stops but for the bass guitar and cello, Rahman starts whispering "jaage hain....". The track reaches its crescendo with Rahman singing the same lines at a high pitch.
Rahman's stint with theatre and Broadway musicals is clearly evident in this track, which features very rich strings and instrumentation coupled with awesome chorus of Madras Choral group.
Overall, yet another masterpiece from ARR-Mani combo. With such variety (Sufi, rustic rain song, bhang song, opera piece, ghazal), technical brilliance and instrumental brilliance, Guru has to be the album of the year!
1. Barso Re
The song starts with base strings. Then Shreya Ghosal teases with "naa re.. naa re". Naveen joins in with playful flute bits. And the teasing continues. U know u are in for a treat!
Apart from Shreya, the other star in the song is Naveen's Flute. Apart from the brilliant starting and the first interlude (which I think is one of the best interludes in recent times), Naveen also joins Shreya in the second stanza (Kaali Kaali raatein...) taking it to a whole new level!
Rahman gives a sweet melody backed by foot tapping beats. He has this knack of perfectly blending western sounds with Indian music - even in folk and village songs - like he did in Bharathi Raja's Taj Mahal. He does it here too! The electronic drums and the synth sounds do not in any way deteriorate the rustic flavour in this song. In fact, coupled with the the awesome lyrics, u can actually visualise the village, the rains pouring all over the streets and ponds, the wet soil, the bulls in the fields (the "chal chal chal" sound throughout the song will reminds u of the bullock carts in villages).
Highlights of the song are the starting 'conversation' between Shreya and Naveen's Flute, the flute interlude, and Uday Mazumdar's cameo.
2. Tere Bina
Rahman loves doing sufi-based songs, and excels at them. And, here's one more to the list, sung by Rahman himself. In this song which ARR has dedicated to late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, ARR does sound like NFAK in some places. Rahman has grown a lot with respect to his singing, and he improves a lot with each song. Waiting for him to win a "best singer" award in the future!!
Chinmayi is absolutely splendid in this song. Her voice is so different and the diction is perfect. Having trained in Hindustani and having won AIR national level Ghazal contests, this must have been easy for her! You get more surprises towards the end of the song, when she sings a line in a very different base voice. Read what Chinmayi had to say about this song, here.
The guitar backing throughout the song creates that richness. Yet another masterpiece from Rahman, and a wonderful dedication to NFAK.
Highlight of the song is the "Dham Dhara" refrain.
3. Ek Lo, Ek Muft
A fun bhang song. Totally situational number - Abhishek singing this to celebrate the birth of twins. Gulzaar's funny lyrics and Bappi Lahiri's 'intoxicated' rendition perfectly match for this song. And then, a female voice joins in - And it is Chitra in a whole new dimension!
The "joiyya joiyya" chorus is really funny and makes me laugh each time I listen to this song. Just love the way the beat changes in the middle of the "joiyya joiyya laado...", in the second interlude (2:54).
Highlights of the song - definitely the female chorus, and of course "Meri Gudiya...Guruuuuuu ki gudiya" (4:07-4:17), with Chitra acknowledging the "meri gudiya" with a "hmmm". Yet another instance to show ARR's attention to minutest of details!
4. Maiyya Maiyya
When the song is an item number to be picturised on Mallika Sherawat, the voice has to be sensous. Rahman brings in Egyptian born Canadian singer Maryem Toller, and she simply rocks in this song. The Arabic and Egyptian influence in her rendition simply boosts the song. Chinmayee and Keerthi join in with whispering chorus from time to time. You think this is fully Arabic, when the Gujarati flavour comes in - this is supposed to be Junior B and his friends joining Mallika in the middle of the song.
Listen to this song in headphones for a wonderful treat, for this song is filled with numerous layers. Also, the music keeps moving from left to right to left, which can't be experienced fully unless u use headphones.
5. Ay Hairat-e-Aashiqui
The song starts with a accordion piece (played by ARR himself using his newly purchased Accordion, which he bought for this song). The "dham dhara" refrain from Tere Bina takes over along with tabla. And then, Hariharan joins in with his magical voice, backed by absolutely soothing strings and harmonium. Till about 1:55, u think this is a total Ghazal - but u are in for a huge surprise - fast beats and a western sounding interludes take over. And then it is back to the tabla! What's really breathtaking is the transition, which Rahman manages in style. Mellifluous Alka starts singing "Kyun Urdu Faarsi bolte ho" which is just out of the world!
Highlight of the song is when the tabla stops when Hari stops at "jagaa mat" (1:02) and "lagaa mat" (1:11). Rahman proves that not just sound but even the lack of it, is music!
Not often does it happen that a song sung by ARR takes a backseat in my favourites list in an album. This song overtakes Tere Bina. It is definitely one of the sweetest duets in a long time!
6. Baazi Laga
Sung by Udit and Madhushree, this track is a typical 80s number, with fast beats and heavy instrumentation. The interludes, the chorus, instrumentation - everything reminds us of that period. This is the song that might not be picturised or might be pushed to background like Dol Dol (Yuva).
Highlight of the song is the "La La La" (3:03 - 3:25).
7. Jaage Hain
A lullaby, which is like the theme of the movie. Mani Ratnam mentioned in an interview that this track will be there through out the movie.
The track starts off slowly with Chitra singing "Jaage hain", followed by the strings and the chorus. When everything else stops but for the bass guitar and cello, Rahman starts whispering "jaage hain....". The track reaches its crescendo with Rahman singing the same lines at a high pitch.
Rahman's stint with theatre and Broadway musicals is clearly evident in this track, which features very rich strings and instrumentation coupled with awesome chorus of Madras Choral group.
Overall, yet another masterpiece from ARR-Mani combo. With such variety (Sufi, rustic rain song, bhang song, opera piece, ghazal), technical brilliance and instrumental brilliance, Guru has to be the album of the year!
By Aravind on
Sunday, December 24, 2006
at
11:06 AM
Post Categories:
A.R.Rahman,
Music,
Review
Only a mouse finds its hands full with a couple of food grains. Small desires do not behove you. Commit yourself to a lofty target worthy of you. Be convinced that you will succeed.
-from MahaBharatha, Udyogaparva, Mother Kunthi’s exhortation to the Pandava princes and Krishna
-from MahaBharatha, Udyogaparva, Mother Kunthi’s exhortation to the Pandava princes and Krishna
... to blog ulagin kuzhal illaa Kannan 'Magix n Curses' Harish. This self-proclaimed "appaavi pulla" is turning 21 today.
And here's my wishes to him for being lucky to have got CAT exam as a birthday gift!! 
All the best to everyone writing CAT today!
And here's my wishes to him for being lucky to have got CAT exam as a birthday gift!! All the best to everyone writing CAT today!
I never would have watched this movie, had it not been for the hype and hoopla surrounding it... and I have learnt a lesson - never watch a Simbu movie, how much ever it is hyped! First half was watchable, but the movie goes totally haywire in second half. It is obvious that Simbu was all at sea. None of the characters seem to be well etched out.Simbu has tried way too much and failed miserably. The worst thing about the movie was Simbu trying to be superstar - the close-ups (which are scary), punch dialogues, his so-called style and actions. Does he really think people like watching him do all that? And, poor poor Reema Sen - she has never looked so bad till now, and i don't think she will look worse than this!
Yuvan's music was hyped as well. But, nothing great there. Vallavaa was the only song which was listenable. I still don't understand why people go ga-ga over Loosu Penne. That is one of the most irritating songs I have heard. Re-recording was noisy at some places, making the dialogues inaudible.
Vallavan is way too much toruture (more than 3 hours) to inflict on oneself, however much one is angry with oneself! Please avoid!!
It is two weeks since you left me. I haven't got over you. How can I? I still can't digest the fact that I am not going to see you again? I miss you so much. We were together for only 2 months. But, the impact is so big!
You always rememberd when I had to wake up early and woke me up on time, lest I should get late. With you around, I was never bored. I still remember the way you lit up on my touch.
It is two weeks since you left me. I know I am never gonna get you back. I know life has to move on. I know that there will be a replacement for you. But the transition phase is tough and long, you see. Buying two cell phones in a span of 2 months is not easy on the pocket too! Damn the guy who stole my mobile!!!
You always rememberd when I had to wake up early and woke me up on time, lest I should get late. With you around, I was never bored. I still remember the way you lit up on my touch.
It is two weeks since you left me. I know I am never gonna get you back. I know life has to move on. I know that there will be a replacement for you. But the transition phase is tough and long, you see. Buying two cell phones in a span of 2 months is not easy on the pocket too! Damn the guy who stole my mobile!!!
My song of the month - Azhagiya Cinderella from Kangalaal Kaidhu Sei, rendered by Hariharan.
The slow but strong western beats with piano chords set the tone for a soft melody. When Hariharan starts with "AruvigaL meley nokki paaigiradhey", you just reach another world. Both the interludes are so fresh and new. The konji konji chorus keeps haunting me all the time! And, the sax interlude - Jus brilliant! I dont think anyone else in TFM uses sax as beautifully as ARR does.
The backing harmony during the two charanams (at very low volume, can be heard prominently if the main vocals are removed) are perfect examples of the maestro's attention to even minute details. If you listen carefully, you can actually listen another voice apart from Hari's and this is a slightly different tune altogether - it is more like a recital than singing! These add a totally new dimension to the song when listened to in a 5:1 speaker system!
One of my all time favourites!
The slow but strong western beats with piano chords set the tone for a soft melody. When Hariharan starts with "AruvigaL meley nokki paaigiradhey", you just reach another world. Both the interludes are so fresh and new. The konji konji chorus keeps haunting me all the time! And, the sax interlude - Jus brilliant! I dont think anyone else in TFM uses sax as beautifully as ARR does.
The backing harmony during the two charanams (at very low volume, can be heard prominently if the main vocals are removed) are perfect examples of the maestro's attention to even minute details. If you listen carefully, you can actually listen another voice apart from Hari's and this is a slightly different tune altogether - it is more like a recital than singing! These add a totally new dimension to the song when listened to in a 5:1 speaker system!
One of my all time favourites!
The Bangalore Edition of Mid Day dated 26.11.2006, carried an article about my blog.
But I came to know of this only today and I could not get the newspaper despite looking for it all over the city!
If anyone reading this blog has that particular issue, please.. please.... please let me know (My mail id and yahoo id are on the left side-bar). I will come and collect it!
There's something written about me and my blog, and the world has read it - only I dont know what was written!!! Cha... unfair!
But I came to know of this only today and I could not get the newspaper despite looking for it all over the city!
If anyone reading this blog has that particular issue, please.. please.... please let me know (My mail id and yahoo id are on the left side-bar). I will come and collect it!
There's something written about me and my blog, and the world has read it - only I dont know what was written!!! Cha... unfair!
Tagged by PK
Am supposed to write 6 wierd things about me... so, here we go!
1. I love to hangout with friends, but wouldn't mind being alone in my room too - only if I have my comp!
2. Addicted to F.R.I.E.N.D.S off late, watching 5-6 episodes daily!
3. I sometimes get addicted to one song (not necessarily a new one) and listen to it even 20 times a day!
4. I dont drink coffee, tea or Pepsi/Coke!
5. I wake up really early (5.30-6.00 am) even without an alarm clock, even if I hit the bed pretty late!
6. I'm just not able to find out 6 wierd things about me!!!
Ok.. me not tagging anyone.... Whoever is interested can take it up...
Am supposed to write 6 wierd things about me... so, here we go!
1. I love to hangout with friends, but wouldn't mind being alone in my room too - only if I have my comp!
2. Addicted to F.R.I.E.N.D.S off late, watching 5-6 episodes daily!
3. I sometimes get addicted to one song (not necessarily a new one) and listen to it even 20 times a day!
4. I dont drink coffee, tea or Pepsi/Coke!
5. I wake up really early (5.30-6.00 am) even without an alarm clock, even if I hit the bed pretty late!
6. I'm just not able to find out 6 wierd things about me!!!
Ok.. me not tagging anyone.... Whoever is interested can take it up...
A.R.Rahman has taken up a task in hand - and he wants to achieve his goal even if it is at the cost of losing projects! Yes... He has opted out of the Red Chillies production (Shah Rukh Khan's) Om Shanti Om to be directed by Farah Khan. This has been the hot topic of Bollywood, this week!
The task at hand - To force the audio companies to share the publishing rights with the composer and the lyricist. What does Rahman have to say about this?
A.R.Rahman has taken up this issue seriously, and is ready to face the repercussions.
Rahman himself has clarified this issue:
A.R.Rahman has started the fight to change the way the music industry is functioning in India. ARR is not asking for not exclusive rights (some singers abroad do that!), but only a share! And, T-series and other music companies don't want to give even that!!!
"Chaiyya Chaiyya" is now creating waves not because of the audio company which owns the rights! Bombay Theme is famous world over, not because of the audio company. A.R.Rahman has taken Indian music worldwide, and the music companies are reaping the benefits. It is only fair that ARR receives the financial gains for these usages of his works in foreign films and serials. But, the highest paid composer in India is not fighting for monetary gains, but beyond that! He wants to change the practices in the industry, which seem to be unfair to the creators!
A.R.Rahman has tasted some success in his protest, as he has got the share of copyrights for his forthcoming film Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, produced by Aamir Khan. Will the others follow suit in sharing the rights?
*Source of Rahman's Interview: Mumbai Mirror
The task at hand - To force the audio companies to share the publishing rights with the composer and the lyricist. What does Rahman have to say about this?
"I want to push for the copyright of composers and lyricists, even producers. I'm not saying that I want to be the sole proprietor of the songs I compose. But I want a share. There's nothing wrong with that. I can't run to music companies like T-Series and Sa Re Ga Ma every time I need to use my own song."*
"I'm standing up for what I think is right. Yes, producers will back out. But that's fine. I'm not insecure about my career. If I lose out on some assignments in Mumbai I'm ready to bear with the loss. I've always been asked why I haven't done a non-film album. Now, I have the time to do that."*Meanwhile, media has started coming up with baseless stories of SRK replacing A.R.Rahman as he did not like ARR's tunes.
Rahman himself has clarified this issue:
"In fact Shah Rukh tried his utmost to see and to put forward my point of view. Unfortunately, T-Series, the music company which will market the music of Om Shanti Om, would have none of it."*When worldover, the musicians and lyricists are given rights, why not in India? Also, according to the Indian copyright act, the rights of a soundtrack rest with the composer, lyricist too unless specified otherwise in a contract!
There are many right holders in a musical sound recording. For example, the lyricist who wrote the lyrics, the composer who set the music, the singer who sang the song, the musician (s) who performed the background music, and the person or company who produced the sound recording.Having studied Indian Copyright Laws and having done a project on Music Copyrights as a part of my course, my understanding of the practices in the industry is this: The music companies like T-Series make the composer and lyricist sign a contract which transfers all ownership to the music companies!
Source: A HAND BOOK OF COPYRIGHT LAW, Government of India, Ministry of Human Resource Development & Ministry of Secondary Education and Higher Education.
A.R.Rahman has started the fight to change the way the music industry is functioning in India. ARR is not asking for not exclusive rights (some singers abroad do that!), but only a share! And, T-series and other music companies don't want to give even that!!!
"Chaiyya Chaiyya" is now creating waves not because of the audio company which owns the rights! Bombay Theme is famous world over, not because of the audio company. A.R.Rahman has taken Indian music worldwide, and the music companies are reaping the benefits. It is only fair that ARR receives the financial gains for these usages of his works in foreign films and serials. But, the highest paid composer in India is not fighting for monetary gains, but beyond that! He wants to change the practices in the industry, which seem to be unfair to the creators!
A.R.Rahman has tasted some success in his protest, as he has got the share of copyrights for his forthcoming film Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, produced by Aamir Khan. Will the others follow suit in sharing the rights?
*Source of Rahman's Interview: Mumbai Mirror
The popularity of Chaiyya Chaiyya abroad keeps rising!! It is really old news that the song was used in the Spike Lee movie "Inside Man". What's new is, the song was used in the TV Series Smith (Season 1, Episode 1) in CBS TV in the US.
Catch the video clip of that episode with Chaiyya, here
Catch the video clip of that episode with Chaiyya, here
Two very unconventional movies released this year - RDB & LRMB. Both are very different - the plot, the way of storytelling, the theme everything is different... but, hey.... there are some interesting co-incidences between these two movies!
- Both of these movies talk about philosophies of freedom fighters (Gandhigiri in LRMB and the Bhagat Singh's strategy of sacrificing himself so that the world gets to know their views, in RDB).
- To reach out to the masses, the protagonists in both films use Radio as the medium!
- Both are unconventional and fresh themes - unlike the usual family drama stuff or skin flicks that are churned out these days
- Both are hugely successful
- Both are going to Oscars!
It was just a coincidence that I watched Lage Raho Munnabhai on the eve of Gandhi Jayanti for I did not know that the movie was even related to Mahatma Gandhi.
Check out Jhanvi's Good Morniiiinnnnng Mumbai clip here
Dialogues were good in many places, especially the ones carrying Gandhiji's messages. Some of my favourites:
"chaata maarna aasaan hai, maafi maangne ke liye himmat chahiye, beta.. yeh kaarayon ka kaam nahin hai" (It is easy to slap someone, but to apologise, one needs courage. It is not something for cowards.)
"Bhai, mujhe to barso pehle maar diya tha.. Par mere vichaaar teen goliyon se nahin marne wale hain." (I was assassinated years back, but my thoughts are not the ones which die because of 3 bullets!)
"Bachpan mein jab tu jhooth bolti thi, to tera baap taxi pakad ke bhaag jaata tha kya?"
Films like Rang De Basanti and Lage Raho Munnabhai are the only hopes of saving Bollywood from the Karan Johars of the world! Kudos to Vidhu Vinod Chopra & Rajkumar Hirani for this brilliant effort.
Positives: Sanjay Dutt, Vidya Balan, Arshad Warsi, Boman Irani and of course, the theme of "Gandhigiri".
Negatives: Gets a bit preachy, but it is inevitable.
Kya jhakaas movie hai! Aise picture bahut kam ich dekhne ko milte hain aajkal... Apun bolta hai, miss nahin karne ka, maamoo!
Munnabhai and Circuit are back - this time, with a different message and a different story - What happens when a Bambaiyya don "meets" Mahatma! Though the movie is filled out and out with comedy, it doesn't just stop there - it also delivers the strong message of "Gandhigiri"(Munna's term for 'being Gandhivaadhi'!). Bambaiyya hindi used throughout the movie is enjoyable!
Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi shine throughout the movie - be it in the comic scenes or the emotional ones. Boman Irani as a Punjabi builder, gets ample footage and he does a brilliant job!
The gorgeous Vidya Balan plays the role of Jhaanvi, a bubbly Worldspace RJ. There is not much screentime for her in this movie, but she has done her bit perfectly! Her "Good Morniiinnnnnnnnng Mumbaaaaai" has become famous and is already being commonly used by youth when they meet thier friends and also in Yahoo Chats!Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi shine throughout the movie - be it in the comic scenes or the emotional ones. Boman Irani as a Punjabi builder, gets ample footage and he does a brilliant job!
Check out Jhanvi's Good Morniiiinnnnng Mumbai clip here
"chaata maarna aasaan hai, maafi maangne ke liye himmat chahiye, beta.. yeh kaarayon ka kaam nahin hai" (It is easy to slap someone, but to apologise, one needs courage. It is not something for cowards.)
"Bachpan mein jab tu jhooth bolti thi, to tera baap taxi pakad ke bhaag jaata tha kya?"
Films like Rang De Basanti and Lage Raho Munnabhai are the only hopes of saving Bollywood from the Karan Johars of the world! Kudos to Vidhu Vinod Chopra & Rajkumar Hirani for this brilliant effort.
Positives: Sanjay Dutt, Vidya Balan, Arshad Warsi, Boman Irani and of course, the theme of "Gandhigiri".
Negatives: Gets a bit preachy, but it is inevitable.
Kya jhakaas movie hai! Aise picture bahut kam ich dekhne ko milte hain aajkal... Apun bolta hai, miss nahin karne ka, maamoo!
Update: The melody "Pal Pal Pal" from this movie is a total copy of the song "Theme for a dream" by Cliff Richard. Shantanu Moitra too joins the list of Copycats!!!
Listen to both the songs here.
Listen to both the songs here.
Yes.... Rang De Basanti is India's entry to Oscars 2006.
Deepa Mehta's Water will be Canada's Official entry to Oscars.
It's official: Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's Rang De Basanti is India's entry to the Oscars next year. So, Aamir Khan heads to the Oscars yet again.And, the second one?
http://in.rediff.com/movies/2006/sep/25rdb.htm
Deepa Mehta's Water will be Canada's Official entry to Oscars.
Canada has set a record for foreign Oscar submissions by nominating a Hindi-language film, the Deepa Mehta-directed Water. Delhi-raised Mehta has made Toronto her home for over two decades and Water is the most successful of the seven films she has made in 15 years.
http://in.rediff.com/movies/2006/sep/22water.htm
It seems to be the season for composers to make ridiculous statements. My previous post was about Pritam. Now it is Himesh's turn. Himesh claims himself to be the "first global rockstar" of India. He put out full page ads in national dailies saying the same!
When asked if he is better and higher than all-time music greats like Lata Mangeshkar and AR Rahman, he says - “Lataji is my guru and I am not comparing myself to Rahman. If they did not claim to be stars, what can I do?”
Mr. Himesh, have u heard of the word "modesty"?!
When asked if he is better and higher than all-time music greats like Lata Mangeshkar and AR Rahman, he says - “Lataji is my guru and I am not comparing myself to Rahman. If they did not claim to be stars, what can I do?”
Mr. Himesh, have u heard of the word "modesty"?!
Wondering who could succeed Anu Malik as the next big copycat in bollywood? It is none other than Pritam - the composer of successful albums like Dhoom, Gangster among others. Surprised? Let me add that some of his most famous compositions were blatant tune lifts - Dhoom Macha Le (Dhoom) and almost all songs of Gangster!
itwofs.com, the database of 'inspired' indian film songs, lists 20 complete tune lifts by Pritam - in just 3 years!!! At this rate, he can easily dethrone Anu Malik.
Pritam was in news recently. His all famous Ya Ali (Gangster) was a total ripoff of Ya Ghali by the Arabic band, Guitarra. Unfortunately for Pritam, the company which produced the original is owned by none other than the Prince of Saudi Arabia, who is considering legal action against Pritam and the producers.
What's funny is the way Pritam reacted to this news, in an interview to Musicindiaonline.
itwofs.com, the database of 'inspired' indian film songs, lists 20 complete tune lifts by Pritam - in just 3 years!!! At this rate, he can easily dethrone Anu Malik.
Pritam was in news recently. His all famous Ya Ali (Gangster) was a total ripoff of Ya Ghali by the Arabic band, Guitarra. Unfortunately for Pritam, the company which produced the original is owned by none other than the Prince of Saudi Arabia, who is considering legal action against Pritam and the producers.
What's funny is the way Pritam reacted to this news, in an interview to Musicindiaonline.
"I’ve earned Rs. 60,000 for Ya Ali. So if Guitarras wants to share my profits for it they are welcome."
PS: Today is positive thinking day!
Clicked these pictures of the fort at Vellore (Tamil Nadu), this summer. This fort is of historical significance. This was where the first ever mutiny against the British took place - in 1806 - long before the Sepoy Mutiny in Meerut in 1857!
The 200th anniversary of this event was celebrated recently. Kumudam.com has a special feature about this fort (dated 14.08.'06).
The 200th anniversary of this event was celebrated recently. Kumudam.com has a special feature about this fort (dated 14.08.'06).
The moat has water throughout the year, surprisingly! I have never seen the moat dry! Now, boating has been introduced in the moat!
Loved the brilliant painting on the sky, by nature! A part of the fort can be seen as silhouette on the left.
Update: All 3 pics above are silhouettes and the details are not visible. So, here we go - one more snap, with better detail!
This is a masterpiece composed by A.R.Rahman, for the Chinese movie "Warriors of Heaven and Earth" (Tian di ying xiong). There are 3 versions - the English version sung by Sunita Sarathy, hindi version sung by Sadhna Sargam and the Chinese version sung by Jolin Tsai (known as the Madonna of China).
I just love Sunitha's rendition of the song. Blaaze has done a great job with the lyrics. Few of my fav lines from the song:
Listen to the english version here.
Upload music at Bolt.
For the hindi version, click here.
It's a pity that this album which won the hearts of many worldwide is hardly known to people in India! However, many might have heard the tracks of this album because these tracks have been copied by many Indian composers including Yuvan (Oru Kallooriyin Kadhai), Vidyasagar (HulChul, Maja) , Niru (kalaaba kaadhalan) and are also being used as BGMs in many TV serials, as title music for many game shows - none of them credit the tracks to A.R.Rahman!
I just love Sunitha's rendition of the song. Blaaze has done a great job with the lyrics. Few of my fav lines from the song:Call me when you need a friendFor the complete lyrics, go here (this is a blog of a foreigner who has fallen in love with A.R.Rahman's music after listening to WOHE.)
To be with you until the end
As the mountains crumble to the sea
Share your loneliness with me
Trouble always finds a way
To keep you further everyday
if only the end justified the means
Listen to the english version here.
Upload music at Bolt.
For the hindi version, click here.
It's a pity that this album which won the hearts of many worldwide is hardly known to people in India! However, many might have heard the tracks of this album because these tracks have been copied by many Indian composers including Yuvan (Oru Kallooriyin Kadhai), Vidyasagar (HulChul, Maja) , Niru (kalaaba kaadhalan) and are also being used as BGMs in many TV serials, as title music for many game shows - none of them credit the tracks to A.R.Rahman!
When your Dreamz turn to Dust
---- Vaccum ----
The album came out after a long wait. There was lot of hype surrounding it. The producers of the film kept attaching lots of importance to the music and to ARR. So, lot of expectations on this album!
Does it live up to the expectations? Well, more than just meeting the expectations - it truly rocks and might well be the album of the year... err.... probably not... Guru is releasing in October!
Kummi Adi (or Ammi Midhichaachu):
An energetic folk number with fast beats.
Naresh rocks... Had a discussion with Deepak, about Naresh's voice in this song - he was wondering if it was Naresh in this song!! I felt Naresh's voice has so many dimensions. He sounded so soft in Tu bin bataaye (RDB) and Myiliragey (Ah Aah), sounded very different in Roobaroo and Paathshaala (RDB), and had that rustic feel in Kammaaa karaiyile (Godfather). His voice sounds so different in each one, and in this song, it is the "kamma karaiyile" dimension!! It was great listening to Swarnalatha, Seergaazhi Sivachidambaram and Theni Kunjaramma!
Already a chart buster.
Sillunu Oru Kaadhal:
Typical jazz song of 1970-80s. The beats, bass guitar arrangements, sax interludes, instrumentation - everything give us that retro-jazz feel. ARR proves once again that he can give a master any genre! Total fun song. Tanvi's voice is so fresh and apt for the mood, and the cat mewing sounds are so enjoyable.
Munbey vaa:
A soothing melody by Shreya Ghoshal and Naresh. The string arrangements are brilliant through out the song, especially during Shreya's humming after the first "rangoli" chorus. The starting instrumental and the BGMs (is it santoor?) are so cute. Highlight is the Rangoli part.
Maaricham:
Rahman loves to experiment a lot and break all rules. And he has gone totally unconventional in this song . This song doesn't follow the usual routine of pallavi-interludes-2 similar saranams.
The song starts of in a slow, high pitched opera-song-kinda mode and then the fast beats take over. Carolissa handles the high pitch portions throughout the song with ease.
The song shifts to a totally different mood after about 3 mins, when she says "Gautam" (it does sound like a mohini pisasu, as Harish pointed out
!!) and Aslam takes over. Aslam's portion is melodious and is backed by fast percussion and wonderful string arrangements. The "tejo mayam " ending is good.
Machakkaari:
A peppy number. Shankar Mahadevan and Vasundara Das create magic. Loved the part when shankar sings "Thaangadhe Machakkaari" -starting from a low note for "thaangaadhe" and dragging on the "machakkaari" part to a high pitch and then goes "ohhh"... lovely! And, the bass guitar peice at the end of the stanza is mind-blowing! Potential chart-topper.
Mazaa Mazaa:
Shreya Ghoshal sung Thazhuvudhu Nazhuvudhu (Ah Aah) with SPB. This time, she pairs up with SPB Charan for a similar kind of song. Charan has tried to sound like his dad and succeeded in many places!
Just loved the percussion arrangements and the transistion from one mode to another! Very light percussion in the starting, and then some very heavy percussion at 1:07 - u keep listening and never know then shift in beats happened - so smooth! The starting ("mm mm hmm") is so addictive. Highlight of the song is the point (4:13) when all percussions stop, Shreya sarts to sing "Jillunu oar...", stops, giggles and then SPB Charan completes "Jillunu oar Ginger beeru thaan"... Awesommme!
Also love the part when both sing "kandaal Paavam unda....." (3:07-3:13) - SPBC sings that line from high to low pitch and Shreya goes from low to high... brilliant!
New York:
Definitely the pick of the album. A guy-misses- his-gal song - a very common theme, but the song is so fresh. Everything about this song is so different. The tune is very unusual and unpredictable and makes you keep guessing all the time.
This is second song in this theme in Rahman's voice, the first being "Mera yaar milaa de" from Saathiya. I dont think anyone else could have done justice to this song other than Rahman - wowwww - he just takes u in to that mood.
I was spellbound by the starting of the song itself, when i heard it for the first time. The "hmmm hmmm" (which keeps continuing to about 1 min) starting is so innovative. After some heavy acoustic guitar strumming in Roobaroo and Luka Chupi, Rahman continues that trend again and it adds to the mood. The lyrics by vaali are just awesome.
Best album in recent times.... Haven't got the album yet? What are u waiting for?
Does it live up to the expectations? Well, more than just meeting the expectations - it truly rocks and might well be the album of the year... err.... probably not... Guru is releasing in October!
Kummi Adi (or Ammi Midhichaachu):
An energetic folk number with fast beats.
Naresh rocks... Had a discussion with Deepak, about Naresh's voice in this song - he was wondering if it was Naresh in this song!! I felt Naresh's voice has so many dimensions. He sounded so soft in Tu bin bataaye (RDB) and Myiliragey (Ah Aah), sounded very different in Roobaroo and Paathshaala (RDB), and had that rustic feel in Kammaaa karaiyile (Godfather). His voice sounds so different in each one, and in this song, it is the "kamma karaiyile" dimension!! It was great listening to Swarnalatha, Seergaazhi Sivachidambaram and Theni Kunjaramma!
Already a chart buster.
Sillunu Oru Kaadhal:
Typical jazz song of 1970-80s. The beats, bass guitar arrangements, sax interludes, instrumentation - everything give us that retro-jazz feel. ARR proves once again that he can give a master any genre! Total fun song. Tanvi's voice is so fresh and apt for the mood, and the cat mewing sounds are so enjoyable.
Munbey vaa:
A soothing melody by Shreya Ghoshal and Naresh. The string arrangements are brilliant through out the song, especially during Shreya's humming after the first "rangoli" chorus. The starting instrumental and the BGMs (is it santoor?) are so cute. Highlight is the Rangoli part.
Maaricham:
Rahman loves to experiment a lot and break all rules. And he has gone totally unconventional in this song . This song doesn't follow the usual routine of pallavi-interludes-2 similar saranams.
The song starts of in a slow, high pitched opera-song-kinda mode and then the fast beats take over. Carolissa handles the high pitch portions throughout the song with ease.
The song shifts to a totally different mood after about 3 mins, when she says "Gautam" (it does sound like a mohini pisasu, as Harish pointed out
!!) and Aslam takes over. Aslam's portion is melodious and is backed by fast percussion and wonderful string arrangements. The "tejo mayam " ending is good.Machakkaari:
A peppy number. Shankar Mahadevan and Vasundara Das create magic. Loved the part when shankar sings "Thaangadhe Machakkaari" -starting from a low note for "thaangaadhe" and dragging on the "machakkaari" part to a high pitch and then goes "ohhh"... lovely! And, the bass guitar peice at the end of the stanza is mind-blowing! Potential chart-topper.
Mazaa Mazaa:
Shreya Ghoshal sung Thazhuvudhu Nazhuvudhu (Ah Aah) with SPB. This time, she pairs up with SPB Charan for a similar kind of song. Charan has tried to sound like his dad and succeeded in many places!
Just loved the percussion arrangements and the transistion from one mode to another! Very light percussion in the starting, and then some very heavy percussion at 1:07 - u keep listening and never know then shift in beats happened - so smooth! The starting ("mm mm hmm") is so addictive. Highlight of the song is the point (4:13) when all percussions stop, Shreya sarts to sing "Jillunu oar...", stops, giggles and then SPB Charan completes "Jillunu oar Ginger beeru thaan"... Awesommme!
Also love the part when both sing "kandaal Paavam unda....." (3:07-3:13) - SPBC sings that line from high to low pitch and Shreya goes from low to high... brilliant!
New York:
Definitely the pick of the album. A guy-misses- his-gal song - a very common theme, but the song is so fresh. Everything about this song is so different. The tune is very unusual and unpredictable and makes you keep guessing all the time.
This is second song in this theme in Rahman's voice, the first being "Mera yaar milaa de" from Saathiya. I dont think anyone else could have done justice to this song other than Rahman - wowwww - he just takes u in to that mood.
I was spellbound by the starting of the song itself, when i heard it for the first time. The "hmmm hmmm" (which keeps continuing to about 1 min) starting is so innovative. After some heavy acoustic guitar strumming in Roobaroo and Luka Chupi, Rahman continues that trend again and it adds to the mood. The lyrics by vaali are just awesome.
Best album in recent times.... Haven't got the album yet? What are u waiting for?
Ponnarasi tagged me again... So, here we go!
I'm thinking about: Deadlines!!
I said (say): Take it easy! Chill Maadi!
I wish: I could walk in space
I hear: New York Nagaram (Sillunu Oru Kaadhal)
I wonder: why life is soooooo unpredictable
I am: a dreamer!
I dance(d): very rarely!
I sing: always!
I cry: when people really close to me are in trouble.
I'm always: cool and relaxed! Take it easy policy!!!
I make with my hands: Nowadays, everything is thru comp!!
I write: hardly anything other than my assignments
I get confused: sometimes...
I need: a vacation!!!!
And, I tag:
Visithra
Sheky
Fun2Fun
Thamizhan
I'm thinking about: Deadlines!!
I said (say): Take it easy! Chill Maadi!
I wish: I could walk in space
I hear: New York Nagaram (Sillunu Oru Kaadhal)
I wonder: why life is soooooo unpredictable
I am: a dreamer!
I dance(d): very rarely!
I sing: always!
I cry: when people really close to me are in trouble.
I'm always: cool and relaxed! Take it easy policy!!!
I make with my hands: Nowadays, everything is thru comp!!
I write: hardly anything other than my assignments
I get confused: sometimes...
I need: a vacation!!!!
And, I tag:
Visithra
Sheky
Fun2Fun
Thamizhan
One of my long term chinna aasai-s was fulfilled yesterday! Ya... finally got the A.R.Rahman T-shirt on independence day.
Thanks to rahmantimes team for the brilliant work!
Thanks to rahmantimes team for the brilliant work!
"Let us for a moment pause to reflect what it is that for which we would like to be remembered for by future generations. Will we be remembered for how many mosques our generation has added, will we be remembered for how many temples our generation has added or will we be remembered for how many gurudwaras our generation has added?
No, not at all. We will be remembered only if we give to our younger generation a prosperous and safe India, resulting out of economic prosperity coupled with civilisational heritage."
- Hon'ble President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalaam
Happy Independence Day!Vande Mataram!
New York nagaram song (Sillunu Oru Kadhal) lyrics.
"True friendship is like sound health; the value of it is seldom known until it be lost."
- Charles Caleb Colton
But, I believe true friendship can never be lost. True, there may be differences, there may be rifts - but the bond of true friendship is strong and powerful to overcome these.
When writing this post, I am reminded of "Yeh Dosti" song from Sholay - the sidecar separates from the bike at one point of time - similar to rifts in friendship! But, then it is only a matter of time before it comes and joins with the bike! Friendships are forever!
Don't forget to wish your friend on Friendship Day - this sunday! It is a way of telling him/her that he/she is special to you!
But, I believe true friendship can never be lost. True, there may be differences, there may be rifts - but the bond of true friendship is strong and powerful to overcome these.
When writing this post, I am reminded of "Yeh Dosti" song from Sholay - the sidecar separates from the bike at one point of time - similar to rifts in friendship! But, then it is only a matter of time before it comes and joins with the bike! Friendships are forever!
Don't forget to wish your friend on Friendship Day - this sunday! It is a way of telling him/her that he/she is special to you!
During the launch of the movie Sillunu Oru Kadhal (earlier known as Jillunu Oru Kadhal or Jillendru Oru kadhal), there were posters all over Chennai city with just the foto of A.R.Rahman! I had written about this here in January!
Now, for the movie release/audio release, huge hoardings have been put up in Chennai, which have just ARR's foto covering the entire hoarding!!! I just love the importance the producers are attaching to the music! Audio is expected to release tomorrow or day-after!Till then, you can listen to the samples in Raaga! Here's the complete track list! (from Ferrari's blog)
Location: Venkatnarayana road (T.Nagar), opp Ekayars petrol bunk
More fotos here.
PS: This is my 100th post!!!
Now, for the movie release/audio release, huge hoardings have been put up in Chennai, which have just ARR's foto covering the entire hoarding!!! I just love the importance the producers are attaching to the music! Audio is expected to release tomorrow or day-after!Till then, you can listen to the samples in Raaga! Here's the complete track list! (from Ferrari's blog)
Location: Venkatnarayana road (T.Nagar), opp Ekayars petrol bunk
Update: One more SOK hoarding featuring ARR, has been put up near Central Station. This is the pic that is used in the hoarding, couldn't get a pic of the actual hoarding, though.
PS: This is my 100th post!!!
I have been repeatedly listening to "Poongatrilae" from Uyire (Ae Ajnabi/Dil Se) of late. And, this doesnt bore me even if I listen to it 10 times a day!!!
The song startes of with a rustic feel to it through the simple beats, and then when Swarnalatha starts of with "Kannil oru vali irundhaal" it takes you in to that mood of sorrow and pain. That heavy, base voice of Unni Menon fits the song aptly (though, I feel Udit's rendition of Ae Ajnabi is better!)
ARR excels with the music for the song, but Vairamuthu is not far behind with the lyrics, thus making it a perfect song. This is one of my favourites of Vairamuthu. The fact that the song is played on the radio by Shah Rukh, is brought out in many places in the lyrics, without losing the essence of the song.
Just brilliant! What more could one ask for! Vairamuthu is Vairamuthu!
One of my fav songs - for the music, lyrics and the rendition!!!
Raaga.com link:
http://www.raaga.com/channels/tamil/movie/T0000185.html
The song startes of with a rustic feel to it through the simple beats, and then when Swarnalatha starts of with "Kannil oru vali irundhaal" it takes you in to that mood of sorrow and pain. That heavy, base voice of Unni Menon fits the song aptly (though, I feel Udit's rendition of Ae Ajnabi is better!)
ARR excels with the music for the song, but Vairamuthu is not far behind with the lyrics, thus making it a perfect song. This is one of my favourites of Vairamuthu. The fact that the song is played on the radio by Shah Rukh, is brought out in many places in the lyrics, without losing the essence of the song.
Kaattrin alaivarisai kaetkkindradhaa ?Picture this... The hero works in the radio station. He has no clue about the whereabouts of his love. The only way he can reach out to her is through the air-waves. He transmits his feelings to her, by airing this song on the radio... and the song's lyrics capture not just the mood, but also the medium though which he reaches her!!! - "I add my tears to the air, with some sweet poetry, and deliver to your house!"
Kaetkkum paattil oru uyir vizhum kanneer vazhigindradhaa ?
Nenju nanaigindradhaa ?
Idhayam karugum oru vaasam varugindradhaa ?
Kaattril kanneerai yaettri
Kavidhai sendhaenai oottri
Kannae un vaasal saerthaen
Oyum jeevan odum munnae ododi vaa ...
Just brilliant! What more could one ask for! Vairamuthu is Vairamuthu!
One of my fav songs - for the music, lyrics and the rendition!!!
Raaga.com link:
http://www.raaga.com/channels/tamil/movie/T0000185.html
Kyle McDonald, a Canadian blogger, started off with a red-coloured paper clip and through a series of online barters, finally, has ended up with a house all to himself!!! He started with the goal of getting a house - in July 2005.
His transactions:
And here's his blog:
http://oneredpaperclip.blogspot.com/
And the BBC news report:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/5167388.stm
His transactions:
One red paper clip --> fish shaped pen --> A doorknob --> Camping stove --> Generator --> Beer Keg --> Snowmobile --> Trip to Yakh, Canada --> A van --> A music recording contract --> one-year rent free accomodation --> An Afternoon with musician Alice Cooper --> A Snow Globe --> Hollywood movie role --> House in Kipling
And here's his blog:
http://oneredpaperclip.blogspot.com/
And the BBC news report:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/5167388.stm
A.R.Rahman enthralled a 18000-strong audience in Hollywood on Sunday. Mumbai Mirror reports that more than 70% of the audience were Americans, which is sharp contrast to any other Indian show held in the US, where in the stands would be filled with Indians and south-asians - One more fact to prove that A.R.Rahman has become "truly global"!!!
This was what Hariharan said at Hollywood Bowl "1965- Beatles, 1968 - Jimmy Hendricks, 2006 - Rahman perfoms at the Hollywood Bowl"
(Thanks to Wasim, arrahmanfans)
"And the boyish-looking A R Rahman - who sings and plays piano as well as composes for films and musicals - is the biggest. Usually "World Music Night" at the Bowl (or anywhere) is a reserved affair, tepid exoticism for college educated white Americans: "Let's have a hand for Mauritania's greatest guitarist." But when A R Rahman was introduced as having sold more albums than Michael Jackson, I knew I was in for something far, far bigger than most of us Angelenos expected. It was a spectacular concert. And frankly, I believe India produces the greatest pop music on the planet. Certainly better than what passes for pop in America these days, and far, far better than the canned, syrupy pop music you'll find in most other countries, from France to Taiwan."
(from marktapiokines journal)
Comment from another American who attended the concert (Thanks to Gopal, arrahmanfans):
"The concert was fabulous - oh, those arrangements, the voices (Rahman's is so powerful!), the joy, the energy...it was a delight. The audience was full to the brim and dancing up a storm. "
Yeah... Its one year since I started blogging...
And it has been great - Got many new friends - many of whom, I am yet to meet! (will try to be present for the next blogger's meet!!)
And it has been great - Got many new friends - many of whom, I am yet to meet! (will try to be present for the next blogger's meet!!)
Tried logging on to youtube today, and this is the error message I got!!! Made me smile even though my login attempt failed. 
The Signature tune composed by A.R.Rahman for Worldspace was launched yesterday. A.R.Rahman has also featured in the ads of Worldspace. Worldspace is on an agressive campaign to build their brand in India.
The Worldspace website worldspace.in has some really cool pics of A.R.Rahman, on each page!
Hosted on Zooomr
Hosted on Zooomr
The Worldspace website worldspace.in has some really cool pics of A.R.Rahman, on each page!
Hosted on ZooomrHosted on ZooomrUpdate: The signature tune and A.R.Rahman HQ wallpapers are available for download on the Worldspace India Site.
I am starting a new section - Song of the month... NOOOO.. this is not the "No.1 song" thats topping the charts for the month, but this is MY song of the month. (Many a time, I get stuck to sone song and listen to it even 10 times a day and this continues for many days before I shift to another song! So, the song featured will most probably be the song that had haunted me recently!) I will discuss one A.R.Rahman song each month. So, here's the first one.
"Uyire Uyire" from Bombay - The beauty of this song lies in its simplicity. Unlike most ARR songs, there is very minimal usage of instruments. ARR once said in an interview that, to make a song successful, what is very important is to know which instrument should "stop" and at which point, and also, which instrument not to use for a song! And very rightly ARR struck gold with minimal instruments for this song.
Hariharan and Chitra weaved magic with their voices. The sorrow, longing and pain is so beautifully conveyed by Hariharan. The point at which Hari stops and Chitra starts off for the first time - oh... brilliant... I get goosebumps at that point, every single time I listen to this song! As always, Naveen mesmerises with the amazing flute interlude!
This song remains fresh after more than a decade, and will remain fresh forever!
Raaga Link:
http://www.raaga.com/channels/tamil/movie/T0000035.html
"Uyire Uyire" from Bombay - The beauty of this song lies in its simplicity. Unlike most ARR songs, there is very minimal usage of instruments. ARR once said in an interview that, to make a song successful, what is very important is to know which instrument should "stop" and at which point, and also, which instrument not to use for a song! And very rightly ARR struck gold with minimal instruments for this song.
Hariharan and Chitra weaved magic with their voices. The sorrow, longing and pain is so beautifully conveyed by Hariharan. The point at which Hari stops and Chitra starts off for the first time - oh... brilliant... I get goosebumps at that point, every single time I listen to this song! As always, Naveen mesmerises with the amazing flute interlude!
This song remains fresh after more than a decade, and will remain fresh forever!
Raaga Link:
http://www.raaga.com/channels/tamil/movie/T0000035.html
Whats common to these 3 movies, u wonder? Listen to the 3 audio clips below. (Dialup friendly - less than 50 kb each). Nothing more to say!!! Just listen to the clips and u will get the point!
First is from Uppu Karuvadu from Muthalvan (1999) - A.R.Rahman
And, this is from Karka Karka - Vettaiyadu Vilayadu (2006) - Harris Jayaraj
And the last one from Sakkarai Nilave - Youth (2002) - Mani Sharma
Audio powered by Castpost
First is from Uppu Karuvadu from Muthalvan (1999) - A.R.Rahman
And, this is from Karka Karka - Vettaiyadu Vilayadu (2006) - Harris Jayaraj
And the last one from Sakkarai Nilave - Youth (2002) - Mani Sharma
Audio powered by Castpost
Tagged by PK.
Me not tagging anybody!
1.Grab the book nearest to you, turn on page 18 and find line 4. Ans. "Don't mention Kemal and cloning in the same breath. I cant handle it." - The Sky is falling, Sidney Sheldon
2.Stretch your left arm out as far as you can & catch air? Ans. Yes... Just air!!
3. What is the last thing you watched on TV? Ans. Samachar Plus (DD News)
4. Without looking, guess what time it is? Ans. 7.00
5. Now look at the clock, what is the actual time? Ans. 6.58
6. With the exception of the computer, what can you hear? Ans. Chinna Chinna Aasai.
7.When did you last step outside? What were you doing? Ans. Went to Mahapalipuram 2 days back!
8.Before you started this survey, what did you look at? Ans. PK's Blog!
9.What are you wearing? Ans. Shorts & T-shirt
10.When did you last laugh? Ans.
11.What is on the walls of the room you are in? Ans. A calendar.
12.Seen anything weird lately? Ans. Yes. This tag!!!
13.What do you think of this quiz? Ans. Brilliant quiz... Done by Siddharth Basu?
14.What is the last film you saw? Ans. Ice Age 2: Melt Down
15. If you became a multimillionaire overnight, what would you buy? Ans. List would be too long to fit here!!!
16.Tell me something about you that I dunno Ans. Tell me what you know about me!
17.If you could change one thing about the world, regardless of guilt or politics, what would you do? Ans. Abolish corruption.
18.Do u like to Dance Ans. Yes!
19. Imagine your first child is a girl, what do you call her?
Ans. No idea! Hello... sudden-aa kettaa epdi?
20 Imagine your first child is a boy, what do you call her? Ans. Soooper question...
If my first child is a boy, I donno what I would call her!!!!
21.Would you ever consider living abroad? Ans. No way... Ye jo des hai mera... Swades hai mera!
22.What do you want GOD to say to you when you reach the pearly gates? Ans. "Hey... How come you are here? It's not time for you yet!!!"
Me not tagging anybody!
Nee thandha Roja
Nee mudhan mudhalil parisaaga thandhadhu - oru Roja!
AnRu mudhal India-ve unnai kaadhalikka thuvangiyadhu!
InRu andha rojavai kandu ulagamey viyakkiradhu
Ulagin siRandhua pathu thirai isai thoguppugaLil
adhu idam peruvadhaal!
AnRu mudhal India-ve unnai kaadhalikka thuvangiyadhu!
InRu andha rojavai kandu ulagamey viyakkiradhu
Ulagin siRandhua pathu thirai isai thoguppugaLil
adhu idam peruvadhaal!
A.R.Rahman's Roja is among the World's Top 10 Movie Soundtracks of all time!
PS: This list was announced about a year back. This is old news, but not many are aware of this! So, I thought I would jus mention it here! :D
Well... not really!!!
Tampered with the alignment a little... made just a few colour changes...
Feedback please!!
Tampered with the alignment a little... made just a few colour changes...
Feedback please!!
ARR has been in the news over the past 2-3 weeks. Big corporates rush to sign in ARR... Pooja for a new film... Loads of interesting news... Here's all the info!!!
- A.R.Rahman is Tamilnadu's biggest icon, along with President A.P.J. Abdul Kalaam and Superstar Rajnikanth! In the online poll conducted by CNN-IBN, all three of them got 18% votes! (Source: Zee News)
- Nokia joins hands with ARR for "Pray for me Brother" - the album that ARR composed for the United Nations Millennium Campaign for poverty alleviation. (Source: Sify)
- Reliance - Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group (R-ADAG) ropes in A.R.Rahman to compose a theme song for its commercials. (Source: Financial Express) . Update: ARR has turned down this offer.
- The pooja for A.R.Rahman's new movie Sakkaraikatti was held last week. Seems to be youthful film.
- ARR has confirmed that the film Elizabeth 2 by Shekhar Kapoor is on and ARR is working for it!
Akshaya Trithiya, the festival which is being celebrated today, is supposed to be the festival of prosperity, luck and success. But, thanx to the jewllers and media, it had become "the festival of gold". This sudden gold-rush is purely due to promos by the jewllery stores. I remember reading somewhere, that no where in the scriptures is the connection between AT and gold mentioned. What has happened is mere commercialisation of an otherwise little-known festival!
When you buy gold on AT, it leads to increase in wealth and prosperity - for the jewellers, of course!
When you buy gold on AT, it leads to increase in wealth and prosperity - for the jewellers, of course!
I got tagged by max-enthu gal Mythreyee (aka Vasu). She is also celebrating her b'day today. Before i get on to my tag, here's wishing her a very happy birthday!!!
And, here's the tag: Middle-age Mutant Kizhinja Kattil (enna title...Epdi vasu... epdi....epdi!!!
)
What kinda power(s) would you choose, if you could undergo bad-ass mutations? You can mention a maximum of 3 powers you'd like. And try to be imaginative... We don't want another Nightcrawler or Mystique! Tag 4 more people.
Powers I would want:
1. Selective invisibility - similar to stealth settings in Yahoo! Messenger. U decide who can see u and who cant. Woud be fun as well as useful, right?
2. Power to convert any food stuff to chocolate/ice cream at will!
Now, I tag Visit, Sheky, Shriedhar and Ponnarasi. Let ur creative juices flow.. lets see some interesting powers.
And, here's the tag: Middle-age Mutant Kizhinja Kattil (enna title...Epdi vasu... epdi....epdi!!!
)What kinda power(s) would you choose, if you could undergo bad-ass mutations? You can mention a maximum of 3 powers you'd like. And try to be imaginative... We don't want another Nightcrawler or Mystique! Tag 4 more people.
Powers I would want:
1. Selective invisibility - similar to stealth settings in Yahoo! Messenger. U decide who can see u and who cant. Woud be fun as well as useful, right?
2. Power to convert any food stuff to chocolate/ice cream at will!
Now, I tag Visit, Sheky, Shriedhar and Ponnarasi. Let ur creative juices flow.. lets see some interesting powers.
Me suddenly in mood for quotations... Donno why!!! So, here goes:
"Sometimes in life, you find a special friend. Someone who changes your life just by being a part of it. Someone who makes you laugh until you can't stop. Someone who makes you believe that there really is good in the world. Someone who convinces you that there really is an unlocked door just waiting for you to open it. This is forever friendship. When you're down and the world seems dark and empty, your forever friend lifts you up in spirit and makes that dark and empty world suddenly seem bright and full. Your forever friend gets you through the hard times, the sad times and the confused times. If you turn and walk away, your forever friend follows. If you lose your way, your forever friend guides you and cheers you on. Your forever friend holds your hand and tells you that everything is going to be okay. And if you find such a friend, you feel happy and complete because you need not worry. You have a forever friend, and forever has no end."
"Sometimes in life, you find a special friend. Someone who changes your life just by being a part of it. Someone who makes you laugh until you can't stop. Someone who makes you believe that there really is good in the world. Someone who convinces you that there really is an unlocked door just waiting for you to open it. This is forever friendship. When you're down and the world seems dark and empty, your forever friend lifts you up in spirit and makes that dark and empty world suddenly seem bright and full. Your forever friend gets you through the hard times, the sad times and the confused times. If you turn and walk away, your forever friend follows. If you lose your way, your forever friend guides you and cheers you on. Your forever friend holds your hand and tells you that everything is going to be okay. And if you find such a friend, you feel happy and complete because you need not worry. You have a forever friend, and forever has no end."
"To assume is to make an ASS of U n ME."
Came across this quote which I had scribbled down in my notes, while mugging for exam! Yeah... I remember my prof saying this in class, but dont remember, in what context it was!!!
Came across this quote which I had scribbled down in my notes, while mugging for exam! Yeah... I remember my prof saying this in class, but dont remember, in what context it was!!!
Here's another mix! But this one's not by me... I found it on the web!! This one is a rocking video mix! Check it out!
"Kannathil Muthamittaal - oru dheivam thandha poove "
There are 2 different versions of this brilliant song - one rendered by Chinmayi and the other by Jayachandran. I wanted to get the best of both in one song, and thus mixed both to get this duet version. Check out the sample (I have reduced the quality of the sample to minimise file size. The Full song is of good quality). Feedback welcome... my first try at mixing!!
Powered by Castpost
U can download it here or here.
Have trouble downloading? Mail me... i'll send it to u
There are 2 different versions of this brilliant song - one rendered by Chinmayi and the other by Jayachandran. I wanted to get the best of both in one song, and thus mixed both to get this duet version. Check out the sample (I have reduced the quality of the sample to minimise file size. The Full song is of good quality). Feedback welcome... my first try at mixing!!
Powered by Castpost
U can download it here or here.
Have trouble downloading? Mail me... i'll send it to u
