Music is all about chemistry --- the rhythmic mixing of tunes and tones.
Success in a team game like film is also a lot about chemistry. Music director Mani Sharma and Mahesh Babu enjoy that. Many of Mahesh's films have been musical hits thanks to Mani Sharma's inspirational works (Okkadu, Arjun). Mani Sharma is also at his for Mahesh because the hero trusts him so much.
Mahesh needs Mani Sharma in his elements more than ever before as he is now on test. Athadu, in that sense, is a test case for both.
1) Adharaku (Title song)
The instrumentation, the chorus and the rhythm patterns are the ones that straightaway catch your attention. It is an enigmatic mix of lively western pop and some typical Indian melody. It also has some shades of rock patterns. It is not difficult to slot this song in particular genre. Hell, it doesn't matter, as long as it sounds okay on the ears. And sure it does.
2) Pillagali
A mixed bag, really. It begins with some crusty mass beats and takes off too some peppy rhythms and then gets down back to mass beats. It keeps going back and forth in different types. Again, difficult to pick a tag for this. But the song has its moments, especially because the instrumentation has some purpose and feel. Shreya Ghosal involved singing is also great.
3) Avunu Nijam
Some Spaghetti Western type 'guitaring' almost make you feel that you are in some Dirty Harry kind of set up. The singing is equal to the task- Both KK and Sunitha are full of understanding and sing with feeling. The harmonics is also ear-pleasing. Mani Sharma mixes the instruments with lot of imagination.
4) Chandamama
Ranjith starts in perfect Hindolam, but the song is no classical piece. It is a snappy rhythmic number that will surely make it to the top of the charts. Mahalaxmi Iyer is in her elements and quickly settles into the groove and brings out a belter. Ranjith is an able foil to her.
5) Neetho Cheppana
The trusted pair of S P Balasubramaniam and Chitra never fail any song. They sure don't this one too. Chitra especially is in splendid form. The orchestration (especially the starter guitar is splendid) too is inspired. But the tune is not the most originals or imaginative. In the event, the song is just good. It could have been great.
6) Pilichina
A mass number with Kavitha and Karthik in tandem. Mani Sharma again excels in some nifty mixing and rambunctious rhythms. It is good enough to make you break into an impromptu bhangra (the Punjabi sounds are so infectious). Certainly makes the album rock.
Mani Sharma has tried to please all. If you are going to compare this one with his previous offerings for Mahesh, it does not do any one any good. On its own, the album has its moments.