Irrespective of any album, A.R. Rahman’s name itself will grab the attention of music lovers all over the world and if it is going to be for a Rajinikanth’s movie means, well, it doesn’t need an introduction. ‘Lingaa’ will be Rahman’s seventh album for a Rajinikanth’s starrer and as he (Rahman) often says, if it is for Rajinikanth, he will be putting extra effort to meet the expectation of millions and millions of fans all over the world. Let’s see what Rahman did for ‘Lingaa’ in detail.
Oh Nanba – S.P.Balasubramanyam & Aryan Dinesh Kanagaratnam
The highly expected intro song for Superstar after seven long years doesn’t meet the expectation. S.P.B is in terrific form and gave it all the placid tune and Aryan’s rap portion which sounds too far and do not add any excitement to the song. What’s so surprising is, A.R. Rahman usually hits a sixer for Rajni’s intro, but he failed miserably here. A passable song, which might get some push with the presence of Rajini in the visuals.
En Mannava – Srinivas & Aditi Paul
The album heads to one more somlonet number, where the singers try their best to inject some life into the lethargic tune. The situation of the song could be the pre-independence era, but, Rahman shows no imagination whatsoever and produces another lethargic track. Aditi Paul’s rendition, ‘Athi veera uyirai uyiraal thoduveera’ alone makes some impression in this lifeless song.
Indiane Vaa – A.R. Rahman
This track must be the central theme of the movie and the composer himself has voiced for this inspirational/patriotic song. Rahman slowly builds the momentum and the moment one would think he would present the knock out punch; well, he falls short, once again. The chorus & steady beats throughout the song does offer some cheer, but, it lacks the firepower that usually presents in a Rahman – Rajinikanth combo.
Mona Gasolina – Mano, Neeti Mohan, Tanvi Shah
At last! A song which reminds us that we are listening to A.R. Rahman’s album. Six minutes of sheer roller coaster ride and one might wonder why the current composers are not making use of Mano’s thunderous vocals? This one could well be his second innings and may he rocks the charts once again. The composition, orchestration, and sound arrangements are so Rahman’ish, especially the part which comes after 3.30 mins where he mixes the traditional instruments with the glorious string section. This track is destined to rule the radio and music channels for the next few months.
Unmai Oru Nall Vellum – Hariharan
After the rocking, Mona Gasolina, the album puts a full stop to the fun right away with one more plodding number. Neither the tune nor the vocals make you listen to the track and gives a feeling to see how long we need to wait for the entire song to complete. Haricharan, who is having a tremendous run in 2014 sounds too labored and it may not be his fault. Another comatose number to end the album.
Pick(s) of the album – Mona Gasolina
Verdict: The album is neither Rahman’ish nor Rajni’ish. And, that’s the sole reason it doesn’t match the expectation.
Rating: 2.25/5