Thug Life Songs - Music Review

Ramesh S Kannan

Jinguchaa: The first single joins the list of iconic Maniratnam-AR Rahman wedding songs. Rahman crafts an undeniably catchy tune, and although it blends a variety of sounds, the result is an irresistibly foot-tapping track, provided one can overlook Kamal Haasan's mediocre lyrics. The composer excels in the arrangements, from the outstanding prelude to the seamless blend of Vaishali Samant and Shakthishree Gopalan's incredible vocals, with Adithya RK offering solid support.

Sugar Baby: It took me some time to warm up to Siva Ananth's lyrics, but this track certainly grows on you. While Rahman has previously delivered iconic songs in this risqué genre, this one falls slightly short in comparison. Nevertheless, "Sugar Baby" progressively improves, particularly with its punchy string sections, especially during the "Kaliyugam" verses and Shuba's rap portions.

Muththa Mazhai: Apart from the inevitable comparison to "Hai Rama" due to the Puriya Dhanashri Raaga, Rahman delivers one of the best tracks on the album with "Muththa Mazhai," seamlessly blending genres while evoking memories of "Kannalane." Dhee's distinct vocals add a unique charm to the track, though one might wish Chinmayi had been retained for the Tamil version as well especially after the gorgeous live version during the audio launch. Rahman excels in the arrangements, especially the transition from "Innum varum Endhan Kadhai" to the classical sargams and the beautiful sarangi segment in the second interlude.

Vinveli Nayaga: Vinveli Nayaga's dynamic background and the anthemic track soar through several high points. Shruti Haasan sounds phenomenal, effortlessly navigating the crescendos. Karthik Netha's lyrics evoke the essence of the actor-director's iconic Nayakan.

Anju Vanna Poove: Rahman delivers yet another masterpiece in the album with "Anju Vanna Poove," featuring Charulatha Mani's exceptional vocals. Karthik Netha's lyrics bring profound depth to the track, complemented by the charming kids' chorus. While the original version showcases minimalist arrangements with Charulatha taking the lead, Rahman adds a brilliant Ilayaraja-esque prelude and follows it up with his refreshing vocals, making it truly memorable.

O Maara: Paal Dabba truly shines in "O Maara," which kicks off with lively brass sections and transitions into his powerful, dynamic vocals. This might just be Paal Dabba's best work in film music. Rahman elevates the vibrant track with intricate arrangements, building up to an electrifying crescendo with a hard rock electric guitar finale.

Let's Play: "Let's Play" by Thoughts for Now works much better, and Shiv, who collaborated with Rahman in Chekka Chivantha Vaanam for Hyati, truly shines in this short hip-hop track.

Engeyo: Rahman- Maniratnam revisits retro jazzy vibes reminiscent of the classic Iruvar song, with Rakshita Suresh delivering the track effortlessly, perfectly complemented by Siva Ananth's lyrics. Rahman shines in the arrangement, blending sweeping string sections and playful clarinet solos, all beautifully accompanied by a brilliant castanet-like sound throughout the track.

Bottomline: Maniratnam and Rahman continue to be at the top of their game with "Thug Life," as Rahman crafts another well-assembled, easily likable set of songs for this exciting reunion.

Rating: 4/5

Pick of the Album: Anju Vanna Poove, Muththa Mazhai, Vinveli Nayaga, Jingucha