Ammuvaghiya naan, directed by Padmamagan, tells the story about a sex worker who opts for the world's oldest profession not out of financial or other compulsions, but for an affinity for the same.
Parthiban, who has tried quite a few offbeat roles in the past, stars in the film. Debutante Bharathi, from Coimbatore, essays the controversial role of Ammu.
After the average fare for Koodal Nagar, composer duo Sabesh-Murali have pleasantly surprised listeners with the film's album. Lyricists Pazhanibharathy, Anpumani and Anand Dhinakhar have given them excellent support in the form of evocative lyrics.
The instrumental extravaganza of gentle and soothing tunes are a throwback to Illayaraja's music.The rhythm pattern in all the tracks is excellent and highly impressive. The choice of singers too is suitable to the music. The female voices have depth without sounding screechy.
If there is any drawback, it is a lack of variety. There are only four tracks along with one number repeated in a different voice.
The album kicks off with the lively Silir silir silirkkuthadi by Srilekha Parthasarathy. The number starts with infectious laughter and soft humming and gives a restrained sensuous description of the protagonist. The track is embellished with good accompaniment on the tabla, a notable feature in all the numbers, and sitar strains.
Composer Sabesh has lent his voice for the next song, Kadale Kadale, proving to be a good singer as well. There is emotion, tenderness and sensitivity in his rendition. The sound of the typewriter and the humming at the start and finish provides a leisurely feel. Flute, guitar and sax interludes enliven the track.
Unnai saranadainthen, a romantic duet by Harish Ragavendra and Kalyani, is the best of this album. The track, with a marked classical flavour, includes a real treat from Kalyani. The delicate structure of her voice perfectly complements Harish Ragavendra's well-modulated one. Once again, the flute-sax strains create perfect harmony. The song grows on you.
Up next is Thoranam aayiram rendered by Srivithya, Geetha and Deepika at a moderately fast pace, retaining the melodious flourish. Lyrics by Anand Dhinakar celebrate the union of the lovers. The vocals as well as the instrumentation including nadaswaram strains create a wedding ambience. The energetic rendition by the three singers in their mellifluous yet deep voices has poured life into the track.
A repeat of Kadale Kadale in the silky yet deep voice of Mathangi, winds up the album. She adds a wistful refrain to the track, which only adds to its beauty.
All in all, Ammuvaghiya naan offers a pleasant musical journey.
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