Lingaa Songs Review - Rajni, KSR and ARR after 15 years

Lingaa is Rajinikanth, AR Rahman and KS Ravikumar's third outing which started with Muthu 20 years ago, Jfollowed by Padayappa in 1999. No doubt, this is Rajinikanth's first full-fledged feature film after an extended break since Enthiran(2010). Vairamuthu has penned 4 songs and one by Madhan Karky.

'Indiane Vaa' (Introduction Song)

As many other Rajini introduction song, this song is loaded with advice, aspirations, uplifting words and wishes to make India better. The song doesn't go overboard on patriotism. The song touches upon the central theme of the movie about unification of rivers and water problems. The song arrangements and instruments sometimes remind you of Kochadaiiyaan. Vairamuthu's lyrics are appropriate for the song situation despite lack of novelty. AR Rahman singing sounds a bit strained at places. 

"Mona Gasolina"  (Dream Situation)

AR Rahman packs a lot of infectious energy in this number. AR Rahman lets himself off the hook fusing multiple styles of music in quick successions. This song showcases AR Rahman's proficiency sliding in and out effortlessly between musical styles with a simple change in beats and instruments. Madhan Karky is asked again to do what he does best -- blending algorithmicly metered foreign language words. Mano starts with no restraint and settles with his powerful singing fits well for Rajinikanth. The female singers Tanvi Shah and Neeti Mohan bring in some freshness and variations. Pick of the Album.

"En Mannava" (Duet Situation)

The duet song that is too simplistic, tad uninspired with archaic lyrics. The song proceeds flat with interlude transitions constructed along expected lines. The song has a blend of Carnatic and hint of Hindustani music. The song fails to make a big impression during initial listening.

Unmai oru naal vellum  (Down in the Dumps Situation)

Eventhough the situation is highly predictable, the song is excellently sung by Haricharan with fantastic lyrics (பொய்கள் புயல் போல் வீசும்...ஆனால், உண்மை மெதுவாய் பேசும்). AR Rahman's music is well structured and blends the lyrics well with music perfectly highlighting the emotions.

Oh Nanba - Recovery/Advice Situation

It is now SPB's turn to stretch his vocal chords for Rajinikanth. This is yet another advice song sung in high scale. The lyrics urge the comrades to go out, conquer and living life to its fullest. The song may potentially unfold through montages.

Bottomline: 

A few of the Lingaa tracks suffer from hangover effect from Kochadaiiyaan while the rest strictly follows the standard template of previous Rajinikanth movies. There is not much to write in terms of its novelty, but the songs are carefully engineered for the purpose of firing up the masses when Rajini emerges on the big screen.

Rating : 3/5