96 SONGS REVIEW CLICK TO RATE THE SONGS

Anthaathi
Vocals: Chinmayi Sripaada, Govind Vasantha, Bhadra Rajin, M Nassar
Lyrics: Karthik Netha, C Premkumar (Poem)

Owing to Govind Vasantha's independent band background, we finally get a 7 minute track in Tamil cinema. Though the final minute and a half includes a narration of a poem, it still counts! Touching the base of alternative rock, Govind manages to weave out a song that would linger in the hearts of the listeners for a long time. It is very interesting how they have resorted to tones that carry a natural quality. Infusion of such tunes, and a rhythm that allows you to comprehend the travel in this song. How it begins on a light, yet magical note on the keys, and transforms itself into an intense expressive poem. Chinmayi, Govind and Bhadra have crooned this song wonderfully, to say the least! However, we have a winner in the form of Karthik Netha. While we are addicted to the tune and progression of the track, Karthik effortlessly steals our attention with his lyrics. They're both contemporary and profound. Director Prem Kumar's vision is an extension of this track that leads us to his poem narrated exquisitely and expressively by Nassar. Without much doubt, Anthaathi is the pick of the album!

The Life of Ram
Vocals: Pradeep Kumar
Lyrics: Karthik Netha

Being a violinist himself, Govind Vasantha sneaks a solo for himself! Because why not? Show-stealer is what he becomes at the end of it. The tune is pretty simple, he doesn't try to complicate much in terms of the complication. But, where this track wins is in its suave presentation. Based out on the guitars, we hear them subtly, yet clearly! This song has some sweet points. The guitar strumming, violin piece, flute insertion, and Pradeep's euphonious voice, to name a few. There's a lot to talk about Pradeep's range and voice texture, but that would require too much space. In a nutshell, he can single-handedly guide you through a journey of emotions. Be it reciting a verse, or just 'Thaane thaane naane'. Once again, Karthik Netha's words seem closer to you than they actually appear! They're more than just a few words intertwined.

Yean
Vocals: Gowri TP
Lyrics: Karthik Netha

A sad ballad in that will deeply etch itself into your heart. Yean is a question she asks him, Yean is a question she asks herself. Yean yearns for love, for intimacy and strength. Ugh, why does Karthik Netha constantly have to be the scene-stealer? Thanks to Gowri TP, this song finds its place in the soul of the listener.

Vasantha Kaalangal
Vocals: Chinmayi Sripaada
Lyrics: Uma Devi

In '96, we are taken back in time to '76, the year Hotel California (Eagles) released. As much as Hotel California can stand the test of time and resonate in the hearts of the rock-lovers even in this millennium, Vasantha Kaalangal might play the same game. Moreover, it is truly descriptive of '96's theme, thanks to Uma Devi. You travel through a rock introduction and walk into a portal that leads you to melancholy. The guitars take you to wonderland and back, and you're looking to swim in nostalgia, aren't you? Chinmayi's fluent rendition increases the worth of the song.

Thaabangale
Vocals: Chinmayi Sripaada, Pradeep Kumar
Lyrics: Uma Devi

Apart from being another expedition into some deep emotions, Thaabangale is a song who's structure reminds you that Govind's roots lie in independent music. Not because of the desolation that constructs itself, but because of the instrumentation and arrangements. Intricate usage of the guitars leads to the rhythmic ecstasy that acts as the cornerstone of the song. Apart from the fact that Chinmayi and Pradeep weave beauty into the song, Uma Devi understands the conscience behind the theme and keeps delivering lines that are admirable!

Iravingu Theevai
Vocals: Chinmayi Sripaada, Pradeep Kumar
Lyrics: Uma Devi

Iravingu Theevai is the élan vital of '96. A fervent composition that has many layers to it. The orchestration is brilliant and it gives you a fulfilling feeling. The formation of this song, and the way it has been crooned could give you an idea of how Ilayaraaja churned out hit songs that were acute in terms of tunes. Chinmayi and Pradeep take control of the song, and give life to Uma Devi's lyrics. This song could go a long way too!

Kaathalae Kaathalae
Vocals: Chinmayi Sripaada, Govind Vasantha
Lyrics: Karthik Netha

Kaathalae Kaathale was initially noticed in the teaser of '96. It was received with affection, warmth, and a great deal of adoration and is still being widely admired. This song is the sound of nature, ie., the chirping of birds, the flowing of a stream, Chinmayi's ever-sweet vocals and Govind's violin that has a tone of silver. It is known that lovers express by singing. But here, love expresses itself through music. Even the breath isn't let alone. The lyrical portions are not much, but they give us the much needed emotional push. Whatever said and done, Govind Vasantha is all over this song with his composition and captivating violin piece. It holds us in its palm and gives us a perspective of a love song that we've not seen before!

Kaathalae Kaathalae (Reprise)
Vocals: Kalyani Menon, Chinmayi Sripaada, Govind Vasantha
Lyrics: Karthik Netha

Except for the fact that this song has Kalyani Menon's voice overlapping the original version, everything remains the same. However, it doesn't lessen the feel instilled in us by the original