Meenaxi - Tale of 3 Cities

Article Updated 19 February, 2004 01:46:59 AM IST

Meenaxi - Tale of 3 Cities

The most awaited and hyped soundtrack of the year 2004, 'Meenaxi', is out now. It's safe to say that the soundtrack of 'Meenaxi' was eagerly awaited because of A.R. Rahman being involved with it. Rahman's last two soundtracks, 'Tehzeeb' and 'Lakeer' somewhat failed to click with the masses. Probable reasons - 'Tehzeeb' was considered to be too classy and 'Lakeer' had only three original songs, the other three songs were the Hindi version of an already released hit Tamil album 'Rhythm'.

Coming back to 'Meenaxi' - does the soundtrack meet the expectation of the fans and more importantly does it deliver? Let's find out...

The album opens up with Reena Bhardwaj's solo number 'Yeh Rishta'. Rahman's usage of the guitar, violin and tabla are apparent in the initial parts of the song, and are used to carry the listener through a seeming beautiful number that reminds one of a song set in nature. Reena's musical rendition extends skillfully as well and sounds beautifully innocent. Rahat Inodri's lyrics set the mood of the song and form a haunting backdrop for Rahman's sound.

Sukhwinder Singh and A.R. Rahman team up for 'Chiannamma Chilakamma' song. The mood of the song is light and airy and is established well through Rahman's melding of western and folk styles. The rhythm is potent and catchy and most definitely foot tapping. Sukhwinder's soulful but powerful voice calls out like a beacon and provides the song with just the right amount of vigor and enthusiasm to wrap up the piece well and make it one for the record books.

Asha Bhonsle's 'Dhuan Dhuan' is the magnum opus of this album. The heavy rock style drums and Asha's refreshingly youthful performance make this song evocative and fun, thus providing it with tremendous repeat value. Kunal Ganjawala provides some great supporting sound as well. Even Rahat Inodri's lyrics are slick and well fitting matching note to note with this heart pumping song. This is definitely one to remember folks!

One of the most outstanding songs in the sea of many is Sonu Nigam's 'Do Kadam Aur Sahi'. This song, unlike the other songs of the same album, relies almost completely on Sonu's vocal range and talent. The lyrical value provided by Rahat Inodri is classy and brilliant not overpoweringly so. While feeling almost like 'Nahin Samne' from Rahman's classic TAAL, this song truly has a life of its own, thanks to Sonu's soulful rendition.

Next comes a Qawali number in 'Noor-Un-Ala-Noor'. Murtaza and Quadir Khan do an incredible job at the alaaps and swaras within the song while bringing the classic Qawali number to life. M.F. Hussain has penned the lyrics for this song and it is definitely one to watch out for. Although, this song is situational it does not limit the song from being appreciated by music lovers. Rahman's classical instrumentation in the background is impresses as well.

Alka Yagnik, a rare appearance in Rahman albums these days, makes an already beautiful album come to life by performing 'Rang Hai'. The premise of this song is similar to that of 'Rang De' from 'Thakshak'. The song itself takes a bit of time to sink in, however once it does, it truly offers an innovative musical experience. Alka does a decent job with the song. Overall, it is a good song, but it will take listeners a while to catch on.

Rahman composes two instrumental numbers in the film as well. One called 'Cyclist's Rhythm' and the other entitled 'Potter's Village'. Both these numbers have been composed with the familiar Rahman style but stand out above the rest for their innovativeness and uniqueness. Overall, something to listen to!

The MEENAXI album proves that A.R. Rahman is simply a legend at creating and composing Indian music. His MEENAXI album defiantly sounds like him but tries to be more innovative and more emotive towards its listeners at the same time. More than any of his albums in recent memory, this one truly stands on its own merit. A must listen for any Rahman fan!

Rating: 9.5/10

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