Yuvanshankar Raja had greater responsibility in his shoulders to deliver the best for the remake of yesteryear blockbuster Billa. Obviously his work will draw comparisons with the original.
Yuvanshankar has managed to come up with a mix of a mass and class in Billa with a couple of remixes from the original all set to appeal the masses.
A right mix of hip-hop, melody and class, the new version of 'Billa' has songs which will top the audio charts straight away. Though not mystifying, the songs are a delight to hear. Groovy and trendy, the album has songs which will set the foot moving.
Groovy tracks complete with exotic interludes and orchestration makes up 'Billa'.
Especially the 'Billa' Theme (Instrumental) takes us to a different world. With guitars dominating, the theme song is a masterly work from young Yuvan.
My name is Billa (Naveen, Kay Kay)
It was the anthem of youngsters in early 1980s. Yuvan was careful in getting the soul of the song and give it a different colour. Set in a racy tempo, the song has all ingredients to make it big. Naveen and Kay Kay have tried to catch up with SPB, who rendered the original.
The rap and the guitar interludes deserve appreciation.
Naan Meendum (Deepika)
Watch out for Deepika. The newcomer has rendered this racy number to near perfection. Peppy and foot tapping, the song has enough stringed instruments in the interludes to make it mystifying. A right song for sombre mind. Peppy and pacy.
Sei (Nithya Mahadevan)
Again a racy number. The instruments seem to have overtaken the vocals. But the pace at which the song progresses makes us forget about the vocals. A typical Yuvan song rendered in an Anglican accent. Watch it with visuals, it may appeal to you.
Seval Kodi (Vijay Yesudas)
A typical mass song. Interestingly the soft voice of Vijay Yesudass has been roped in to sing this number. Peppy and filled with brisk music, the Seval Koddi is a perfect number for Ajit fans to rejoice in cinema halls.
The use of percussion and additional rhythm is a delight to listen to.
Vethayala Pottendi (Shankar Mahadevan)
Shankar Mahadevan instantly reminds us of energy. His voice not just adds sheen to songs but also brisk energy. Vethalaya Pottendi, a remix from the original Billa, is one such song from him.
It has undergone just a few minor changes to suit today's audience. It is old wine in a new bottle.