Paa Music Review

 For Balki, Ilayaraja's music means everything to his films. "I can't think of anybody else composing music for my films. I have grown up listening to Raja sir's music which is universal and melodious," the filmmaker says, raving about the maestro.

Living up to expectations, the music genius has repeated his magic for Balki in `Paa', after songs from the duo's 'Cheeni Kum' topped the charts some time back.

With Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan at the helm of affairs, the film is the touching story of a 13-year-old boy (Amitabh) diagnosed with progeria, a disease, the symptoms of which include ageing at an early age, and his relationship with his father (Abhishek).

Simple and sweet melodies from Raja strike a chord. Music lovers can celebrate 'Paa' by all means, for it is one of the few albums that stay away from any gimmickry, but straight from the heart.

1. Mudhi Mudhi...

The use of violin, piano and percussion by Ilayaraja brings back memories of late 80s and early 90s when the maestro literally ruled Tamil cinema's music charts. Shilpa Rao has brilliantly sung the song, which is easy on the ears and simple on the lips.

The tune has two more versions. One is "Udhi Udhi", which is nothing but an extension of the original. And the other is "Gali Mudhi", sung by Shaan. Though the number is slower in pace, it is equally impressive.

2. Halke Se Bhole...

Sung by a group of kids, it is a chorus number especially for children. More like a morning assembly school prayer, "Halke Se Bhole" is just average and fails to impress us like most songs of Ilayaraja do.

3. Hichki Hichki...

Next in the line is "Hichki Hichki", beautifully sung by Sunidhi Chauhan. With heavy inputs from bass and drums, the song is lively and seductive.

The fast-paced track refreshes listeners.

4. Mere Paa...

The title track is by the Big B himself. But it is hard to recognise Amitabh Bachchan's vocals as his trademark baritone is missing. The narrative theme is song is endearing thanks to Raja's euphony.

5. Gumm Summ

Apparently picturised on a bunch of kids, "Gumm Summ" has a childlike innocence to it. The song has been sung by the maestro's daughter Bavatharini with help from an effective chorus. It is a genuine melody for children with violin hogging the limelight. On the whole, `Paa' is a tribute to music lovers from Ilayaraja. It is doubly so for those who love some soulful and smooth music.