Yathumaagi Music Review

I am surprised nobody came across this new album by James Vasanthan, who has come up with brilliant numbers like kangal irandaal. This movie Yathumaagi consists of new faces(sunaina is still abit new) and seems to be based on romance.

Pesum Minsaram

A melodious male solo by benny dayal which has the guitar as the backbone for the song. Subdued orchestration adds more gloss on this song. Certainly hummable and impressive.

9/10

Paarthathum Karaindhen

A genuine fusion between the guitar and tabla in the backgrounds makes for a interesting listen as we are transported to a very simple tune that has his stamp all over. James vasanthan shows his orchestrational abilities when he lets the electric guitar take over the first interlude in a very soft tone while the second interlude is captured by the accordion. The singers have kept to the tune with chitra impressing with her modulations. Watch out for the finishing electric guitar.

9/10

Koothachidiva

A very playful tune which seems to be a competitor for the aval appadi ondrum ellei from angadi theru. Watch out for the tribal percussions in the background. James Vasanthan must be a fan of the electric guitar as it features prominently in the song and the bass guitar as well. Another Ilaiyaraaja school of guitar student? Terrific song, very innovative and the ludes(especially the jazz styled flow in the firs interlude) are impressive.

10/10

Thigatta Thigatta

A female solo this time which is once again a melody. Ilaiyaraaja's style of violins and rahman's style of flute makes a great fusion in the first interlude. Very soulful singing by singer deepa mariam. Amazing flute flow in the second interlude which once again showcases james vasanthan's orchestration. Backed by the electronic bass(i think) and violins occasionally this song has a very breezy touch.

9/10

Yathumaagi Nindrai

A very short song with bharathiyar's original lyrics which is tuned in a westernised fashion very similar to pesum minsaram. Once again a guitar dominated song which makes for a plesant listen. The type of song which you want to hear when your alone.

9/10

Yaradhu yaaro

James vasanthan's carnatic styled fusion numbers(eg kangal irandaal) continue here. He is really creating a trademark for himself in such numbers. Synth dominated backgrounds, a raaga based flute rendition in the interludes and a very mellifluous tune.

9/10

Overall this album proves that james vasanthan is here to stay. He certainly seems well versed in alot of genres and probably from what we see a genuine student of ilaiyaraaja(guitars). Do yourself a favour and listen to the songs.