'Thuppakki' refreshingly classy

Film: "Thuppakki"; Music Director: Harris Jayaraj; Lyricists: Madhan Karky, Viveka, Pa. Vijay and Na. Muthukumar; Singers: Vijay, Andrea Jeremiah, Joe, Krishna Iyer, Vijay Prakash, Krish, Devan, Rajeev, Hariharan, Tippu, Narayana, Sathyan, Ranina Reddy, Karthik, Chinmayi, Bombay Jayashri, Javed Ali, Sayonara Philip, Sharmila and Bibin Kolassery; Rating: ***

"Thuppakki" marks the return of actor Vijay as singer and his second time collaboration with composer Harris Jayaraj after the successful "Nanban". The soundtrack has six songs and one instrumental theme. As many as 20 singers have been roped in to sing for this highly anticipated album.

Harris, who is known to compose with a mix of melody and fast numbers, takes this album up a notch with his distinctively refreshing tracks.

"Google Google", crooned by Vijay and Andrea Jeremiah with good-humoured lyrics, is an uplifting foot-tapping disco number. The lyrics subtly touch upon the susceptibility of modern-day relationship between a boy and girl. Music played throughout the song appears to have been composed digitally. Vijay-Andrea combo works suitably for the song, while the rap lines build up to an enjoyable chorus.

The second track called "Antarctica" opens with energetic strings. Harris plays with different versions of strings such as acoustic, distortion and electric to elevate the song to all new level. Sung by Vijay Prakash and also featuring voices of Devan and Rajeev, this song is proof to the composer's ability to mix melody with fast number.

"Kutti puli kootam" by Hariharan is a stylish folk number that opens with Hindi lyrics and is soon followed by desi percussions. Lyrics by Viveka are fitting and indicate that this may very well be the hero's introduction song. The track doesn't impress musically and carries a similar tune backed by dhols and strings, but Hariharan's lively voice breathes life into it.

"Poi varava" is a soulful track crooned by Karthik, which he sings with an emotional feel, is backed by slow recurring acoustic guitar. Lyrics by Pa. Vijay are inspiring and scream patriotism of a soldier towards his country.

Hariharan's second song from the soundtrack is "Vennilave', which also features the voice of Bombay Jayashri. There are recurring Hindi lyrics played throughout the song, which is backed by soothing flute and Spanish guitar. Harris pick of instruments proves that he's the still the champion of melody as he gives the listeners yet another gratifying track.

"Alaikka laikaa", crooned by Javed Ali and Sayonara Philip is a signature Harris duet number with a heavy western touch. The lyrics by Pa. Vijay are flirtatiously written to play by making references to Kajal's beauty. The recurring drum beats are supported by electric guitar and distinctive voices of the singers.

"Jagadish on mission", which is Vijay's theme track in the film, is a slow electronic rhythm backed by looming electric strings.

Overall, it is a classy and refreshing album.

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Thuppakki