Headphones from Harman - AKG Y50, 45 JBL Everest series Review !!!

JBL Everest 700

These are slightly bigger than the Everest 300 and comfortable as it sits around your ear. The cushions are incredible soft and well designed, which also gives you passive noise isolation. The headphone is fold-able like the beats solos, which makes them extremely portable. They sound incredible with the main intention to retain the highs with balanced bass. The bass is not at all over empowering with just the feel of existence. The headphone gives you a balanced feel at the first and is enough to drive through your mobile phone. The headphone share feature again is a advantage if you wish to share with your partner.

Pros:

Balanced sound

Fold-able and portable

Aux cable

Bluetooth sharing

Passive noise isolation

Built quality

Cons

Not for bass lovers

Slightly on the higher price range

Competitors:

Beats pro

Bose AE2 Bluetooth

Skullcandy Hesh 2.0

Sennheiser Momentums wireless

Sennheiser Urbantine wireless

Sonyxb950BT

Vmoda Crossfade

JBL Everest 300

These are on the ear headphones with the same built quality of the 700s and maintain same incredible soft and designed cushions.  Fold-able and smaller makes it portable. When comes to the sound quality it’s got the bass which 700s lacked, however there seem to be a drop in Highs and overall sound stage of the 700s. The Audiophile category is a miss on this model but you still get amazing sound out of these for casual music listeners. They are comfortable and again very well built.

Competitors

Beats Studio

Momentum Wireless

Bose on ear Bluetooth

JBL  Everest 100

These are in ear headphones with a tag price line of 100$. Very impressive design, which are extremely light, and can keep them on through out the day. How do they sound? They sound fantastic and easily one of the best Bluetooth headphones. The sound stage they deliver is incredibly balanced with accurate bass which goes deep but not hampering the mids and highs. Again the highs are not screaming but rightly blend with the other bars. Extremely comfortable and recommended for any kind of genre. The volumes do not go high when compared to any other Bluetooth headsets like Jay birds etc. which could be a con but JBL is developing the JBL headphone app which should help this power up a little more. The noise isolation is again a plus as the design helps the isolation hand in hand. The headphone looks neat, light and portable. The buttons on the right side is not heavy and do stay at a place during workouts. They work on every gadget seamlessly and the buttons also work as required. Highly recommended

Pros:

Balanced and great sound

Fit and design

Cons:

Could have been louder

Competitors

Jay Birds X

Power beats

Sony

Brainwavz

AKGY45 Bluetooth

Small and light weight compact headphones. They have the AKG sound in them and good bass.  The sound seems to be slightly warmer when compared to the AKG k450s as the design seems to be similar. Casual listeners would be happy picking them up mainly due to its compactness and sound.

The unique 3D-axis mechanism doesn't just make these headphones easy to fold and carry; it also ensures a perfect fit against your ears. The soft, padded, headband and earpieces further add to the long-term comfort of these headphones. Although light and comfortable, the Y45s are durable, too. A soft travel pouch is also included with the headphone

Pros:

Good Bass

Compact, fold-able

Good Built

Cons:

Not for an Audiophile

Slightly expensive

Competitors

Jabra move/revo

Creative Jam

Sony MDR330

Skullcandy Uproar wireless

AKGY50

These are exceptionally well made headphones.Their aluminum ear cups – which house 40mm drivers – have a smooth, glossy feel and feature fine cosmetic detail. Thanks to a neatly designed mechanism that lets them fold flat and collapse inwards for easy storage.

The leather ear pads sit firmly on the ears – physically blocking out almost 95% of the noise. The 3.5mm-ended cable also has an in-line remote for hands-free Smartphone calling.

AKG has also put a lot of thought into the sound of the Y50. They’re not too hung up on sounding entirely accurate, and happily take on a little extra bass because it’s what most people are after these days. The balance is still very much present and sound is Incredible clear. They provide fantastic sound stage which makes you drown into the music and sometimes realize that you were lost for awhile, but yes the ear cushions do provide a hot feel after an hour of use. Bass is deep heavy and very clean. They sometimes take a lot out of your source volume to be powered up which again is a con.

The sound stage is very wide which makes you feel you are listening to a set of speakers in your drawing room. They are extremely superb sounding headphones with great looks and color options to pick from. Audiophiles will not complain with these. Highly Recommended

Pros:

Incredible sound quality

Design & Portable

Adequate Bass

Cons:

Sources might need to be turned up

Ears get warm after a while

Competitors :

Audio Techinca m40x

Bose Sound true

Sennheiser HD280s

Sony XB900

Skullcandy Hesh 2.0

Over all, AKGs and JBLs new models are impressive and definitely compete with the top brands and it easier to introduce them into a personal audio segment in the US, however not easy in India as the segment is just in its growing, baby stage. These headphones start at a minimum 100$ which is a lot of money for a normal working class in India. The target should be Audiophiles who collect high end audio stuff through marketing. It’s not impossible but would take a lot of time and the pricing of these is very important and should ensure the Indian cost of living rather than a pure currency calculation.

Headphones like M50x has proved that it will sell around the 120-150$ tag in the Indian market just because of pricing and strong reviews, same module will help with Harmon if they want to be at the top 5 in the personal audio market.

Audio Reviewed using

Samsung Galaxy Edge Plus

I phone 6

IPod Touch 5^th Gen

IPod Classic 6^th Gen

Fiio x1

Fiio e11k (Amplifier)

Files of MP3 (320 kbs), FLACS, WAVS and AIFFS.

Rockstar – Musical Brilliance that is immeasurable

Long and eagerly awaited score of A.R.Rahman because the name says it all, this genre is something which he wanted to experiment and we his fans wanted to hear from him. Movies likes Rock on proved that rock music alone can make a movie a big hit. The icing on the cake here is Rockstar is not only a rock musical also a Romantic drama by Imitaz who has proved the same in his previous works.
Sadda Haq is now the youth anthem and in fact other songs too like Katiya Karun, Tum ho is popular due to some very brisk and clean marketing by the whole team. When you have an ARR album which has 14 tracks in your rack that too with all of them masterpieces you can’t ask for anything more from him and Rockstar is an example.

Phir se - Begins with chorus which reminds of Dil se bgm, heavenly feel when the bass pours in and then the journey of the track is one which can be felt only when experienced by oneself. Mohit has done an extremely superb job on the vocals and infact in each and every song hence I won’t be mentioning much about the vocals as it is evident. There is drift in the last few minutes of the track where he tries the techno beats which gives us a smile why? But I am sure it will gel with the visuals. A terrific start to the album.

Jo Bhi – First traces of guitars used in the album and a very sweet and long effect track with lots of variation and the tune is strong throughout and will drive every youngster to listen, play this track during their convocations, get together etc. The song is fresh and this attempt is something only ARR can give to Bollywood . The Vocals again is fantastic and flows so freely and will linger in your mind thought-out.

Katiya Karun- Punjabi number accompanied with some good orchestration. Happy, funny and peppy number which would be loved instantly by any normal listener, Beats might be familiar but the presentation of the song seems to be fresh.

Kun Faya Kun – Divine is the word to define this track. Yes it is another Qawwali but each time ARR has something which just not touches your soul but move it too. This time this song has a major audience including people who were not great Qawwali admirers. The song is just right length and very creative in terms of arrangements, guitar in a Qawwali is superb and the vocals of ARR are again very divine. The second charanam is pleasant soothing and tapping. Overtime I listen to this track it gets better and better and I have a huge friend’s circle who just loves this song.

Sheher Mein – Thoroughly enjoyable number with some good beats and interludes and will sure become popular on radio channels. The tune on the whole is very situational at same time catchy.
Hawaa Hawaa – This song need some time to grow on as there has been some serious layering on it, gypsy, Arabic blend with heavy orchestration makes it a very colorful number. It has all the elements of an ARR song in terms of creativity that has gone into it. Perfect song to listen to in your car on a long drive.

Aur ho – Anger, pain and frustration written all over and after a long time a track on the lines of satrangi re from Dil se. Stand out here is the vocals by Mohit and Alma which gives an western touch. A must in your IPOD.

Tum ho – Soft , romantic number which is an instant likeable hit in lines of ARR’s must number in all his albums for the last few years. The chorus by Suzanne is mind-blowing and makes you feel good. This song can never get you bored and can be heard at any time on repeat. Lovers have a treat in form of Tum ho.

Tum ko – Classical version intruded by blend of ballad by Kavita Krishnamurthi reminds me of Taal, Zubeida and Yuvraaj. The voice captures your mood instantly at beginning of the song and continues to amaze you till the tablas roll on. This song is again a collection in your IPOD and nice to have this blend in a rock album.
Coming to big ones Nadaan Parinde and Saadda Haq which fall in place to complete the rock album. My favourite is Naadaan Parinde as it has everything in it. A song to start with ARR vocals followed by terrific drumming by Sivamani and the guitars which is so clear in tune with the flow of the song. The first charnam is ARRs part which he wins easily and the power is clearly shown. Suddenly you have a feel of bengali rock when Mohit comes in and charanam is utterly cute and lingers to make you hum with the lines. A perfect grand concert number by ARR which is thoroughly deserved to be one of his best ever.

Coming to the big one Saadda Haq is a heavy rock song which defines the genre and mood of the film. The tune and lyrics are a steal out which can impress any normal music listener. ARR again has not only dragged rock lovers towards this song but also normal janta. The song starts off with heavy percussions then when Orianthi guitar work starts its only goosebumps throughout. The tempo of the song is high and kills you at one stage when the guitars are dancing at its peak. The tune is simple backed up by some terrific programming that makes this song stand out when compared to any rock song composed in bolywood till date and ARR runs away with the best rock song award. It is indeed a youth anthem and a killer. Experience the music, excitement, madness and the craziness with saddaa haq and you will never feel full and will want more of it. Saaddaaaa Haq .

There are two instrumentals Tango for Taj and The Dichotomy of fame which again amuses us in terms of orchestration and clearly shows the amount of time that would have been invested in this soundtrack and it is worth all of it.

This album would go waste and might sound just average if you do not give it repeat hearings. This soundtrack is in the leage of Roja, Laagan. Taal, Rang De Basanti and D6. Thanks to ARR for this wonderful music journey in form of Rockstar which not only touches the soul but also stirs it.

Solo HD (Beats) Vs Bose OE

Both are considered as the word best headphones, I personally am a big fan of Bose. I have been owning a Bose OE for more than 3 years and enjoy every music that I listen on them till today. Often while surfing the net I have read that Dr.Dre have beaten all the headphones in the market with their style, design and off course quality.

In India thankfully Bose is easily available though slightly expensive compared to the US, also the best part is we get service at perfection with all spares available so investing on a Bose will never make you worry about the long run investment. Why Bose ?? I have an history to it as I have grown listening to Bose 901's at home as my dad smartly brought them with him when we moved from Saudi. I have always wanted to own Bose headphones one day and my first one was the OE. Till date i feel these blow all the other ones in terms of bass, quality and comfort.

Today I have added the Dr Dre HD Solo to my kitty and here I am sharing my thoughts on my music experience. Firstly these are not available in India and I had to get it through a dealer though I have the warranty attached to it but no service centre here in India. The packing is mind-blowing and the package contents seems to make you feel WOW. The looks, finish and the feel is first class and stands out compared to any other headphone in the market currently.

Dr.Dre mentions clearly on the imprint of the box that artists spends lot of time fine tuning music and all that happens in the studio goes unheard in other headphones and this can be experienced only on Monster Beats. You will agree with him once you experience music on these headphones. Class apart as the bass along with mids and lows are very clear and the ambience that it creates can only be experienced once you hear them on beats. The sound is crisp and holds on to the ambience that it creates and yes those studio sounds can be heard.

Coming to Bose, these will stand out for its own class and according to me they should never be compared to Beats as Bose is affordable and easily portable as it is a good travel partner. The bass that Bose produce is something which no other brand can figure out and it is strong holding bass which makes them stand out. OE is clearly the best headphone from Bose in the non noise cancellation segment.

I love both of them and in this segment they are the best in the world though there are few others like AKG, Koss and klipsch who make much bigger and costlier headphones in the world.

Koh Samui - Thailand

Koh Samui is an island located in southern Thailand tailor made for tourists around the world. I had heard a lot about this place from our friends asking me how I had missed this place in Thailand. I love Thailand and I have travelled through out; this place had always been at the back of my mind. This time around I decided to venture out to this considering its complexity in reaching to this island.

I had never wished to combine northern and southern Thailand in one trip. This time I flew to Kuala Lumpur by Air Asia and then to Penang by road. Few days at Penang was refreshing and not to forget the drive to Bahtufirrangi.

Penang to Hat Yai (Southern Thailand) by road was around 4 hours. The roads in Malaysia are one of the best in the world,absolute bliss to drive in those speedways. The Malaysian immigration is cleared and then enters the Thailand immigration; should admit the first goof up I have seen in Thailand out of all my experiences. If you hold an Indian passport, it is not easy to get through without 10,20 Ringgits depending on the immigration officers’ mood.

Hat Yai is a small city with an abundant Muslim population considering its proximity to Malaysia. The visitors are mostly Malaysian travelers who are hunting for some night life and not to forget the Thai massages. It is indeed a very peaceful place if you just want to get lost for some time.

Few Muslim restaurants helped me get some vegetarian food around there and yes, this was my second trip to this place in Thailand. Few days of stay here. Later, travelled to Koh Samui from Hat Yai. The drive was for around 7 hours which was a bit tiring.

Donask is the pier to the God gifted island called by Thais as Samui. A one and half hour cruise should I call it? Unforgettable. There are plenty of shared taxi’s running for 60-80 bahths from the Samui dock to the beaches. Hat Chaweng and Hat Lamai are Ko Samui’s most beautiful and most popular beaches. Both have a huge selection of accommodations suitable for every budget. Please note that room rates increase during the peak season i.e., from December to July, when Samui sparkles. The nightlife of each beach is different: Hat Chaweng is good for couples, women and families; while single men are drawn to the beer bar culture of Hat Lamai.

If you are looking for a private moonlight beach party, then what are you waiting for ? Go to Samui and yes, I would highly recommend this place for newly married couples for their honeymoon. ;-)

There are several ways to reach Koi Samui depending on the type of traveler you are.

By Air
Bangkok Airways flies from Bangkok to Ko Samui 13 times a day. The flight takes about an hour and 10 minutes. It also offers daily flights between Phuket and Samui.
For more information, call
Bangkok office, 0 2229 3456, 0 2229 3434,
Samui office, 0 7742 2512¬9
Samui Airport office 0 7724 5601-¬8.

By Bus

Air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses leave Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal for Surat Thani several times daily. The trip takes about 11 hours. For further information, call 0 2435 1199, 0 2435 1200 (air-con), 0 2434 5557 - 8 (non- air-con).

By Car

From Bangkok, take Highway 4 (Buddha Monthon Road) through Phetchaburi and Chumphon provinces and then drive on to Highways 41 and 401 to Surat Thani Province. From Surat Thani, visitors can take their cars to Koh Samui by a vehicle ferry at Donsak Pier. The trip takes 1.30 hours.

By Rail

Several trains leave Bangkok's Hualamphong Station for Surat Thani daily. The trip takes about 12 hours. Train / bus / ferry combination tickets are also available. For more information, call Hualamphong Railway Station, 0 2223 7010, 0 2223 7020.

For some pictures on Ko Samui visit
http://www.flickr.com/photos/sharus100/sets/72157625274317232/

Written by Sharad Srineevas.R
Editor : Pooja M Kudva

Jhoota hi Sahi an A.R.Rahman weapon

Pam Para : Instantaneous feel of an ARR track from the 90’s. Full of energy with some of his trade mark sounds, beats and tune. The first interlude proves the presence of Sivamani in ARR troupe, classy and very foot taping. The feel in this song is very similar to the Ooolaala song especially the rhythm, tune play and the entire song structure. It was Chitra in Oolala and its Shreya who took it away completely in this song. ARR is in the modern 2010s era but still he has pulled out one number from his vintage collection. Try this song when you are working out or in a social gathering at your place (Girls Meet) lol, I can envision them dancing around with lot of soft toys and pink colour.
Do Nishaniyan : I wait for this song in the album, what an piece of music , I firstly want to bow down to ARR. This song alone proves that ARR has been keeping his soul touching tunes in the box since nobody has been giving him the right opportunity to utilize them. The opening stands tall and it’s a ride to the heaven. Sonu Nigam has one more track which will rank among his best of best. The Charanam, Interludes is at top notch throughout the song. Heart melting tune and anybody would fall for it on the go. Real feel good when you are travelling and on the go (Foreign locales, with nature)
Call me Dil : A simple tune, however the overall presentation makes it creative and instantly likeable. The guitar sound is crystal clear like Rashids Ali’s voice. A beautiful evergreen song with amazing lyrics and orchestration. This album has a more a western feel to it is because of this song and off course I have been waiting for the moonlight.
Hello Hello : My beloved in the album cause it just my kind of ARR song. The opening beats will drop you down and leave you astonished when the guitar strings follows up. Karthiks voice is well suited here because the track falls under the category of virus. ARR virus songs include Hey Ennachu, Khoyee Khoyee Aankhein , Kya kare ya na kare etc. Majority of these songs are rendered in a subtle and lower scale accompanied by violins at the bg. The phone sounds are totally new and the interludes blow your mind completely out. This song will grow on you immensely and is well suited for driving on a freeway, workouts and an early morning jog.
I have been waiting for the moonlight: In and out western track and you will feel it. Bollywood is very lucky to get a jazz track of immense quality for this film. Vijay has over performed in this track and will be credited rightly by all. The interludes give you pure bliss if you are on a candle light dinner with your loved one. Even a non Jazz lover will get hooked on to it that’s my challenge. Best suited for a candle light dinner, relaxing at home with a cup of coffee at your drawing room enjoying the nature.
Maaya Yoshoda : Fun loving, groovy festive track. Majority of the people will just love this track for the beats and the tune. Chinmayee man she is crazy what a voice phew. You will never recognize her voice here until you read on the CD cover. The sitar interlude leaves you with goose pumps wow wow wow. I just wish ARR uses sitar a lot more in his future albums. There is also a remix version which is neatly done and will go well with the dance floors. This song is for the festive time baby and dusara and diwali knocking doors.
Cry Cry : Here comes Kabhi kabhi aditi -2 . I just do not have anything to say about this song. How many times has a song become an hit with just seconds of its trailer or even before the audio releases, examples are kabhi kabhi aditi and cry cry. Cute, funny, crazy, maddening song for the young crowd so listen to it and ash karo.
Abbas Tyrewalla has proved that he falls in the category of Mani Ratnam, Shankar, Shyam Benegal, Shubash Ghai and Rakesh Omprakash Mehra in terms of his rapport with ARR. All the above greats have consistently extracted quality and creative music from ARR. Abbas is super successfully in extracting something different which is his style for the second time. The best album this year in Bollywood so far bearing in mind Rockstar is yet to come.

Thoughts from my FrIENd.... Once my boss ..

Yesterday, I was driving and the FM radio went off for a few seconds. I thought I should have had an iPod. Then suddenly I realized that I had not used my iPod in the last six months. And then … more things-- handy cam in the last two years, digital camera in the last two months, DVD player for a month and many more gadgets . Now, I can say that I bought that handy cam out of impulse as I had used it only twice in the last four years.

So, what’s wrong and where? When I look at myself or my friends, I can see it everywhere. We are not happy with what we have but all are stressed and not happy for the things we don’t have. You have a Santro, but want a City. You have a City, but want a Skoda. Just after buying a new phone, we need another one. Better laptop, bigger TV, faster car, bigger house, more money… I mean, these examples are endless. The point is, is it actually worth? Do we ever think if we actually need those things before we buy them?

After this, I was forced to think what I need and what I don’t. May be I didn’t need the handycam, the iPod or the DVD player. When I see my father back at home, he has a simple BPL colour TV. He doesn’t need a 32″ Sony LCD wall mount. He has a cell phone worth Rs 2,500. Whenever I ask him to change the phone, he always says … “It’s a phone, I need this just for calls.” And believe me, he is much happier in life than I am with those limited resources and simple gadgets. The very basic reason why he is happy with so little is that he doesn’t want things to make life luxurious, but wants themonly to make his life easier. There’s a very fine line between these two, and after looking at my father’s lifestyle closely, I got the point. He needs a cell phone but not the iPhone. He needs a TV but not the 32″ plasma. He needs a car but not an expensive one.

Initially, I had a lot of questions.

I am earning good, still I am not happy …why?

I have all luxuries, still I am stressed ... why?

I had a great weekend, still I feel tired … why?

I met a lot of people. I thought over it again and again, I still don’t know if I got the answers, but certainly figured out a few things. I realised the one thing which is keeping me stressed is the “stay connected” syndrome. I also realised that at home too I am logged in on messengers, checking mails, using social networks, and on top of that, the Windows mobile does not let me get disconnected. During weekends itself, trying to avoid unwanted calls keeps my mind stressed. I realized that I am spending far lesser money than what I earn, even then I am always worried about money and more money. Also, I am saving enough money I would ever need, whenever needed. Still I am worried about job, salary and expenditure.

May be, many people will call this approach “not progressive attitude”, but I want my life back. Ultimately it’s a single life, a day gone is a day gone. I believe if I am not happy tonight, I’ll never be happy tomorrow morning. I finally realized that meeting friends, spending quality time with your loved ones and spending time with yourself are the most important things. If on a Sunday you are alone and you don’t have anybody to talk to, then all the luxuries of life and money are wasted. May be cutting down your requirements and recalculating your future goal in the light of today’s happiness are worthwhile things to do. May be selling off your Santro and buying a Honda City on EMIs is not a good idea. I believe putting your happiness ahead of money is the choice we need to make.

I think a lot can be said and done but what we need to do is re-evaluate the value of happiness and time we are giving to our life and people associated with it.

Komram Pulli – A Commercial Brilliance

Success is an equation which is a combination of experimentation and expertise. This album is one example of that equation. It takes a lot to experiment with new sounds and fit in a catchy and commercially viable tune. Every bit of music in Pulli is a commercial brilliance. This album gives you the feeling of the 90s when we used to listen to ARR songs on a cassette. S. J. Surya is a guy who has a lot of commitment towards film making and I like his genuine style of film making. He has extracted the right music from ARR.

Maham Maye: Instant hit is the USP of this track. Oh Chako Muke Oh Shishi Muke is ARR naughtiness filled with beats which just holds on to your ears for hours. Javed Ali kicks off the tune in a style that gives you a new vocalist feel. Suchithra is welcomed to the ARR unit with this very sweet song. Trendy interludes containing heavy pads and keyboard sounds should imprint the future for young talents to follow. The techno riff at the beginning of the song is captivating and the first interlude is lost in heavenly stuff. A very catchy and an instantly likeable tune.

Amma Thale: Typical ARRish opening followed by a tongue-twisting tune. This song has the flavours of Theekurvil, Naadeshwaram Pollavandal, Moondrilvarthekethavarthe, Sakakra, Jack n Jill and Maarkandhiya. The orchestration is grand with traditional modernised beats. Singers have exceeded their expectations and will fall under the category for its permanence and will make it to the evergreen ARR playlist. The only corn here would be the recording level which reached its peak resulting in cracking the sound towards the second part of the song.

Power Star: Tailor made for heroism that has shades of Blue theme. Powerful beats and sounds backed up by powerful rendition by the singers.

Dochey: This one easily falls under his best-programmed song. Each and every sound is fresh and exciting. It has an international appeal and will be the anthem for the youth. The Arabic beats and sounds is an outshine effort by the composer and will stun his peers. Clever utilisation of singers gives an erotic feel and a killing instinct throughout. You would just want it played 24/7 in cars, pubs, etc.

Maaralente: Patriotic songs are a cup of coffee for ARR and he has succeeded again with this song which is heavily and strikingly orchestrated. ARR himself rendered this highpitch track making it the most favourite track for all his fans. The song would go very well with visuals and stun the audience when they experience cinema.

Namakame: In the lines of Oh Palanhare from Laagan and Amma song from New.It is bliss just because it’s a journey of vintage ARR and we will never get bored of this genre of songs from him. The choice of instruments is class and the tune ever rings in your ears giving you peace.

Overall, a very satisfying album meeting all expectations of various tastes. Enjoy the music instead of comparing it with other albums or composers. Thanks to S. J. Surya that we get to hear some foot-tapping numbers from ARR. I would like this combo to continue and give surprise packages every time.

Editing - Pooja M Kudva

Raavan - A Rustic look on the music

Bhera Bhera : Starts of with African voices and chants. You will feel the excitement that a Mani- Rahman film usual has when the songs flows in. Totally fresh and catchy, rustic tune which suits the character Bheera. Very good percussion arrangement's throughout and this song gives you the feel the genre Raavan belongs too. This song can be really power full when seen with good visuals.

Ranjha Ranjha : My favourite. The song starts of with Anuradha’s Sriram’s voice flanged followed by a guitar riff. Amazing vocals and fantastic rhytm patterns. It is got variations through out including the interludes which are masterpiece's. The bass holds on to the beats overall perfectly programmed song. This is one of Rahmans raunchiest tracks ever till now and the best number in Raavan

Khili Re : A classical number in shades of Zubeida, Legend of Bhagat singh & Laagan. Not so rich as there were, but still it is creative and fresh. Very neat vocals by Reena Bharadwaj. The highlight is the first interlude which has class written all over and only Rahman in this generation can produce something like that.Its creative because the blend of Arabic beats to a classical song is again mind blowing stuff.

Thok De Killi : More of a Jai Ho type. Catchy ,energetic and fast beats sets the song to be one sung by Sukwinder singh who has sung it beautifully. The first interlude is masterclass and reminds me of old days when Ilairaja used to compose something similar for a Mani film. Variation in tunes is a roller coaster ride. Overall an highly emotional song pulled off very well by the whole team.

Kata Kata : Composed on similar lines with a Veeraphandi Kotayle or Azeem-O-Shaan Shahenshah from Jodha Akbar. Rahman cannot be beaten in heavy orchestration and he has done it again with this song. The song will very much deepen on its picturisation to make it popular.

Behene De : Everybody is waiting for this song to be played on the radio. Belongs to category of Rahman songs which is completely new and pulled out from the earth. The first time I heard the song I had no clue what was I listening too. The song takes a century for it to grow on you and once it does it’s a virus and you can never get rid of it. You just cannot predict what is next in the song because the tune and musical arrangement's are highly complex ed creatively . kartick is done a magnificent job on the vocals front. This song will stand out for a long time and will fall under Rahman’s best songs.

On the whole Raavan cannot be compared to any of their previous albums because every time they came out with an album it has been a new package. Just enjoy the package and appreciate the efforts.

Chiang Mai - Walking street

This is one of world’s largest markets the Chiang mai walking street. This market is on the Saturday and Sunday every week where you find localities from Chiang mai and near by towns assemble here with their goods. Must say that the goods sold here is off amazing quality, unique to its own kind and you find what not here. Fashionable, ethnic and present lifestyle displayed here in class and creative. This market defines Thai people the hardworking they are and humble to the earth. Priced standardized which doesn’t give a room to cheating. Not only shopping you find some entertainment along this shopping time. Blind, handicapped have their opportunity to display their talents and earn some for the same. This is one market the world should be proud off.

Composed on a sony erricson c903

Sankhampang Hot Spring

This is located around 40 km from Chaing Mai north of Thailand. Maintained by government ensured spic and span. The water is drawn from the mountain which is steaming hot.
Why take bath here? It relieves body, muscle, joint ache; skin patches clear making the skin smooth and give a fair skin texture
How to get their?
Just rent a car or bike get there. It’s a marvellous drive all way. You would want to keep going again and yet again.

Composed on Sony Erricson C903

Fish Spa

Heard about spa right? Fish spa? Humans eat fish and now it’s their turn to eat us.
They clean the legs and eat the dead skin off our legs which results in a super soft skin and clean feet. The experience is just super cool. I tried this out yesterday and must say it was astounding. At the first instance it was creepy when I put the legs into the water. But few minutes later you get used to it. I am feeling a lot healthier after this. Plenty found in Thai, in and around south East Asia. These fishes are imported from the Middle East and its worth giving this spa a try. :-)


Composed on Sony Erricson C903

Vinnaithandi Vaaruvaya

I waited for hour’s day’s nights to write this review. Why? Is it just because this is an A.R.R album? We had to wait for more than year for a Tamil album. This is equal to a ten year wait from him. Today I am writing this after the movie is out and after watching it three times. I didn’t write the music review cause I knew it will take time for all to get along with these diamonds. Today everybody accepts that they are. Every song has its uniqueness. I can imagine the hard work he has put into every bit of sound in the songs and the BGM. I watched the movie three times just because of the film itself the style class presentation blend genre wow. I was sitting one day in Bangkok and wondering if ARR would ever create an vintage sound track again like he used to a decade back.
The BGM is his best I am not mentioning about his previous but right now it is the best. Gowtham is class. He has just carved this melancholy to the minute best. The movie is like the train and wheels are the music. Without wheels the train won’t run, the same is the case here. I meant both are hand in hand making it a million perfect. I respect the feelings of people who didn’t like the music or the film. All I can say is wait for the next. I always felt my mom would not like this so much as I did. I asked her when we got into the car after minutes of silence how was movie ma? She said awesome. VTV broke generation’s barrier.

Composed on a Sony Erricson C903

Blue- An Electro Storm (New Era Rahman)

Delhi 6 was liked by all. All the songs in the album were masterpieces. It doesn’t happen all the time for any composer this way. It happens to Rahman once in few years. Examples : Roja, Dilse, Alaipayuthey, Laagan, Rang de Basanti etc…Delhi 6 belonged to this race. I wish this album wins the best music award for 2009 keeping in the mind the movie failed. But musically it was terrific.

Now I am linking Delhi 6 here because the new Rahman was born in Delhi 6. New era – If you notice the songs in Delhi 6 had a new sound to it. The mixing is completely different, I think his new sound system (Studio) and the MAC base is producing some amazing new sounds and bases. He started using the MAC base from Swades if I am not wrong. By now he has mastered it and is a pro at it.

Blue is an example that proves that Rahman is the best sound engineer out there. He can produce an outright new sound be it beats or pads. On to the tracks:

• Chigy Wigy : I have not much to say about this track. So much controversy, chuck all those and enjoy the beats. Wow this song is already rocking all channels and Saturday night out cars. Kylie is awesome in this track, her voice sounds crystal clear even better than her singles. Ok..No harm combining it with an desi portion but, I feel he should have opted for some one other than sonu…But nevertheless an awesome try by the maestro and should say there is some class in the mass that he tries and that is Rahman.
• Notice – The opening 0:00 – 0:007 International Standards. Amazing opening.
• 0:37 – Widero Beats, just too good.
• 2:16 – Bangra Transformation, new sound altogether.

• Aaj Dil Gustakh Hai : Instant hit. The tune is commercial and cute. Right choice of singers. The instrument (Piano) is very enthralling. This song excites me a lot because of the interludes. I miss this kind of interludes from Rahman big time. Now again here in this song both the interludes are of new formats. He has tried something totally new which has shades of vintage Rahman but new sound and presentation. Overall an Chillo feel track.
Notice – The opening is just mind blowing, listen to it on a bose headphone you will know it.
Both the interludes are terrifically awesome. No words to explain.

• Fiqrana : Took some time for me to grow. But now my favorite. I would call this as an roller coaster ride. Hahah…Because the track has so many variations. Got Vintage Rahman at times. I am sure this track would have suited Farhan Akthar perfect. Coming back to the track, second charanam in a typical Rahman goose pumping tune. I hear the portion again and again and will never get bored. I just felt the second interlude could have been better. The beats are an old one but when Rahman produces these it is totally new. My most favorite track. Enjoy this track it grows big time.

• Bhoola Tujhe : What an song. This is way better than the tracks that Rashid has sung in his previous albums. The orchestration is out of the world. This song gives that class that Rahman is capable of producing every time be it any genre (movies) that he signs. This is the next era of Rahman. This song can be repeated in your play list for even 100 times a day. Hats of Rahman Sir.

• Blue Theme: Rocking, Kicking and completely electro. I am happy Rahman has given his best in terms of technology to this track. The sounds suits perfectly to the underwater shots. This song should be enjoyed in the theatre with visuals. Rahman’s presence would be felt.

• Rehnuma : I am yet to get into this track. Will get back soon.

• Yaar Mila Tha : Whew…What to say. The tempo reminds me of those bollwood remixes or the famous Raghav song. But here this is what Rahman can give with a tempo like this. Naughtily rendered by Udit and Madhu. Other composers can learn a lesson or to as to how can these beats be linked to an original tune. The song has no flaws and rocks all way through. The interludes are fantastic. Overall enjoyable track.

An experience - Banglampoo – Backpacker’s street (Bangkok)

My dad was traveling from Chiang Mai to Bangkok by bus earlier this year in March 2009. A Japanese traveler who travelled with him in the bus mentioned about the place called Banglampoo in Bangkok where the rooms for stay (Actually guesthouses) are very cheap and easily available.

This time (August - September 2009) during our (Myself and dad) stay in Chiang Mai at (Little Home), the landlord told us about this place again. She told being a Localitie she prefers to stay in Banglampoo when she goes to Bangkok. We decided to stay in Bangkok for a day at Banglampoo. We cut short the stay in Pattaya by a day which was so pleasing and comfortable just to venture out this place. All my trips to Bangkok have been packaged well in Royal park view hotel in Sukumit Soi 18. I find this place close to being home, because being an Vegetarian; I get south Indian vegetarian food in Ganesha Restaurant down Soi 18. This time we decided to stay in the Swiss park hotel in Sukumit Soi 11 called as Nana. Since we had proponed and arrived a day early in Bangkok we wanted to venture a day in Banglampoo.

Took bus 501 and proceeded towards Banglampoo from Nana. Informed the conductor to tell us when we reach Khao San Road (Banglampoo). Reached the place we could see lot of Backpackers crossing the roads, immediately could guess we were close to the place. It was shocking to see a street full of Guest houses. Rooms starting from 200 bahts to 1500 Plus. It was indeed a very different experience for me as I have always seen the classy part of Bangkok, nevertheless I don’t mean that this place is low, but the truth is it’s not worth even dreaming of staying at this place if you are “Indian”. The standard reply you get from all the guest houses is the rooms are full SORRY. We have tried almost at all the guest houses in the street. We actually thought the rooms were full until a person from Burma told us this is the treatment we would get every where in Banglampoo if you were an Indian. I could see tears in my dad’s eyes. Come on he loves this country Thailand and more the people of this Gods Blessed country. He was so given up and told this is atrocious that Thai people were treating the tourists so bad, who are known for their hospitability and smiling faces. He became so irritated and wanted to come back to India the same day. I was shell shocked to see this (sorry to say) DIRTY side of Bangkok. I would rather stay in PATPONG which is the red light area in Bangkok than in Banglampoo.

My Take on Sakkarkatti

Sakkarkatti is an album which didn’t have huge expectations like a shivaji etc. We expected youthful music similar lines of Boys, E20U18 etc. Now since the album is out all we can hear is youthful, fresh beats, sounds and tunes. I don’t know if I would be bashed up for saying this album is top notch. The Re – used tunes here are in fact filling the album and making it a package. I feel he is very careful and will never use his Hindi tunes blindly anymore. These two tunes are totally different and he might have had a feeling that it might do well with the Tamil audience.


Taxi Taxi- Now this song might have the feel of famous Gasoline Beats (Rahman’s Favorite track), but please remember world is small and u hear any and every kind of music. This beat may be similar that doesn’t mean that he ripped this off. This song has stamps of RAHMAN being the master of using technology followed with a cute melody in a Hip Hop song. This song will bang the speakers of cars in all colleges and will boomer with bass in all discs.
Virus in this song…1:50-2:19- The 1st interlude is the best I have ever heard from Rahman since long long time.
3:10-3:44- Now this French lyrics reminds me off something. Way back when shivaji released I remember Suhasani Ratnam mentioning somewhere that she was working out at the gym suddenly there was a song from a different country being played there; finally it was Style from Shivaji. Now this song is on the similar lines, this French lyric is just so cute, I feel without this Taxi Taxi would have been half baked.

Marudhani- Rahman never kills his melodies with heavy beats and I can vouch on it. Be it Munbe Va , Sneighdhane , Myileerighe etc. You can feel while listening to his melodies, how he must have grown it and I am sure the beats are the final mix in his melodies. This song is an exception where he has experimented a new kind of a techno bass, riff and slap sticks with a beautiful pad. He succeeds and this will create a new trend.
This song has so many variations and I still feel he could have sung at least a portion of the song to make it the No.1 Song for ME in this album. This song should create waves this year only if we people are ready to accept the new base by Rahman .
Virus in this song…Opening 00:00 – 00:46
Rahman’s humming 2:49-2:59
Ending


I Miss U Da- People pounced on this track to be the best of all when heard at beginning. This track is sheer experimentation by the genius. I feel this song lacks tune at times. Rahman has kept experimenting with tracks like this for the last few years.
Spiderman – New
Thazhavadu – Ahh ah
Maza maza – SOK

This track beats them all easily and this time Rahman wins as he created a new stamp after 3 efforts. The Stabs at times move between your ears and the other new sounds , which shows the mixing is just superb and no one in India at least can come up to him(His studio) in terms of sound mixing..
Virus in this song
Emni Chant and I leave it to you guys to comment.

Elae- This song is underrated by many and yes keeping in mind the violin sample commonly used etc. While listening just try to avoid the violin sample, still will make the song fabulous. Off course the violin adds the icing to the cake. This song brings a fresh breeze along with drops of rain water pass through you. In the present TFM no one except Rahman can compose a song like this. This song for ME is better than Robaaroo. But yes the lyrics could have been better.
Virus in this song
The opening, Interludes and the ending is fabulous.

Over all considering the Re tunes too an remarkable attempt by Rahman . If the movie takes on, this album will go miles.

Secret of Human characters - pre-set & programmed from first to the last breath SUN SIGNS ( Known as ZODIAC SIGNS)

1.Aries- 1st Fire sign - 21st March to 20th April- Ruled by Mars.
2.Taurus- 1st Earth sign- 21st April to 21st May - Ruled by Venus.
3.Gemini- 1st Air Sign - 22nd May to 21st June - Ruled by Mercury.
4.Cancer 1st Water sign- 22nd June to 22nd July - Ruled by Moon.
5 Leo 2nd Fire Sign - 23rd July to 23rd August- Ruled by Sun.
6.Virgo 2nd Earth Sign- 24th August to 23rd September- Ruled by Vulcan.
7.Libra 2nd Air Sign - 24th September to 23rd October- Ruled by Venus.
8.Scorpio 2nd Water Sign- 24th October to 22nd November- Ruled by Pluto.
9.Sagitarius 3rd Fire sign - 23rd November to 21st December- Ruled byJupiter.
10.Capricon 3rd Earth Sign- 22nd December to 20th January – Ruled by Saturn.
11. Aquarius 3rd Air Sign- 21st January to 19th February- Ruled by Uranus.
12. Pisces 3rd Water sign- 20th February to 20th March – Ruled by Neptune.

Fire and fire, air and air, water and water, earth and earth will vibes very well.
Fire and Air signs also vibes well as fire need air to function.
Earth and water will vibes well as water ultimately help the fertility of earth.
Aries- Libra; Leo –Aquarian ; Sagittarian-Gemini… the best fire and air combinations.
Taurus-Scorpion ; Virgo- Pisces; Capricorn-Cancer, the best earth, water combinations.

BRIEF ANALYSIS OF SUN SIGN.
1.Character of Fire sign.( Aries, Leo, & Sagittarius.)
Qualities of fire like: Instantaneous, impulsive, impatient, erratic, fast, disastrous, un-predictable will go in all directions, helpful, fighters, quarrelsome, bold, courageous, care free, careless, very frank, no reservations & calculations, non-diplomatic,
….destructive as they make scars easily being ignited by others, will not repent.
Goes well with Air as fire can not function without air.
Looks: Tall, Medium structure, fiery & inquisitive, bold & courageous.
2.Character of Earth sign: ( Taurus, Virgo & Capricorn)
Qualities of earth such as: Very strong, rigid, stable, dependable, predictable, will power,
resourceful, committed , very practical, perfectionist, hard workers, methodical, workaholic, careful, calculative, critical, aspirers, sincere, serious, independent, reserved, …..can achieve independently without much support, won challenges with more efforts.
Lives for principle, ethic & morale. Difficult to dislodge and destroy easily.
Goes well with water, as earth yields with the penetration of water.
Looks: Strong, medium built, confident, reserved, snobbish & shrewd.
3.Character of Air sign: ( Gemini, Libra & Aquarius )
Air Qualities such as: Very light, flexible, easy going, carefree, directionless, elusive, secretive, unpredictable, accommodative, fast, relaxed, in-direct., non-committed, independent as they go anywhere and every where.. very social and non controversial.
Looks: Very tall, thin, slender, very friendly, social, diplomatic, carefree & relaxed.
4.Character of Water sign: ( Cancer, Scorpio & Pisces.)
Like water very emotional, sensitive, very useful, cool, shapeless needs support & direction. Emotional attachments towards bloodline, ancestors, home, country, history, origin etc., appear and disappear like water.
Looks: Watery & shapeless body, fat and fleshy ,slow movers, emotional, over sensitive, moody, melancholy, sentimental, humane and home lovers.

Ram Murthi, Sun Sign Researcher
Father of Sharad Srineevas

Thailand and its people ( A case study )

Recently, I happen to visit this country after a decade and noticed amassing infrastructure improvements . I wonder, how could they achieve so much, so efficiently? They are also as poor and vast as India, with a large population. I made more visits to study their way of working especially in public works. This comparative study is more valid than comparing Malaysia / Singapore or any other developed city in the world.

Self discipline, Selflessness, Common good & Larger Interest.
Every citizen thinks of nation first, a larger interest to preserve and improve their
town, city, and country. They co-operate for all good happenings by self discipline,
common good, which make everything works automatically.
Example: They care and follow :
General rules and regulations of the land, building, construction, traffic etc; Development of public transport; Easy public mobility; Peaceful public atmosphere; Public awareness, Discipline in public; Public hygiene / un polluted cleanliness; Preserving & maintenance of public properties; Beautifying and maintenance of public parks, water bodies etc.,

What we are not doing ,they are doing without money but with
‘brain and co-operation’. What they are doing we are not doing as of now.

1.)Transportation of garbage& construction materials, road cuttings & asphalting after mid night. ( No extra area either damaged or misused. No inconvenience.)
2.)Specifications for roads, footpaths, drains, culverts etc. strictly followed.
3.)Spilling of construction materials and garbage can never happen.
4.)Heavy transports can never be allowed to enter small lanes to avoid damages.
5.)Larger one ways are provided with a single lane for opposite traffic.
6.)Transplanting huge shade trees for parks and highways.
7.)Growing creepers over metal shade net on footpaths for shade and beauty.
8.)Properly designed in-lets from the road to side drains to drain water totally.
9.)Separate bins in public places for wet and dry garbage.
10.)Standardized footpaths, road signs, in all the cities all over the country.
11.)Traffic sign boards and lane markings with indications in all critical points.
12.)Raw sewage and Industrial wastes will never enter any water body.
13.)All the civic agencies will co-ordinate on any public works (inclusive health.)
14.)Law and order will never encourage riots to prevent loses of public property.
15.)Wastage/ misuse of water, electricity, gas, etc will not be entertained.
16.)Misuse of public machinery or vested interest can never be allowed.
17.)Favoritism and influence will never be entertained in any public work.
18.)Quality and standard of all public works will be monitored in every phase.
19.)Public inconvenience will be prioritized on any public work.
20.)Value for human and animal life can never be compromised.

Prepared by R.Ram Murthi
Father of Sharad Srineevas

Rajini and Rahman: Indian Heroes

The article below is not wriiten by me sourced by indiaglitz.


Superstar Rajinikanth and music wizard A.R. Rahman were among those who were conferred with the prestigious awards presented by NDTV. The channel presented the awards to Indian heroes in a glittering function held at Taj Palace, New Delhi.


Rajinikanth, the biggest superstar of India, was named NDTV'S Entertainer of the Year, while A.R. Rahman, who continues to enthrall the nation with his mesmerizing music, was given NDTV's Music Award.

There was another Tamil hero in the prestigious list. Vishwanathan Anand was named NDTV's Sportsman of the Year. The King Khan of Indian cinema, Shahrukh Khan, won a special NDTV award for his contribution to cinema in 2007. The function was attended by dignitaries, celebrities and other prominent personalities.

I would like to make one change in the title to Global hero's,as both have the attribute and proved several times.

A comparison between Thailand and India !!! Read - to get to know on what

A primary research was done by me on retail checkouts in Bangkok, Thailand which is now one of the top 5 countries to have established well itself in the retail sector.This is an extract from my thesis which i had to submit to obtain my M.B.A degree. This Particular comparison may be needless here, but not just this small comparison about a retail store but there can be 1000 differences between the two countries favouring positive to thailand.

My guide Mr.J.P.Tiwari(EXT Faculty IIPM)framed few questions and certain observations that I had to make during my trip to Bangkok in August’07.

Since i had a family friend Mr.Pavan Chuttimaitri of APN Publications settled in Bangkok, he took me to the top 5 retail chains in Thailand (Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya). The chains that I visited are:
• Lotus Tesco
• Carrefour
• Big C
• Home Pro
• Robinson


All these are hyper markets similar to the Big Bazaars and Metros in India. I also covered 7/11 which is a small retail store (something like Food Worlds in India).
My observations were as follows:
TESCO (visited 3 outlets, 3 cities)

1.)Hyper market containing 36 checkouts counters in a horizontal line operated by a cashier.

2.)They have got 6 quick lanes apart from the normal 36 checkout lanes.

3.)The counter staffs are being trained for a minimum of 4 months on the system and the software before they take up the duty.

4.)There is a supervisor who is keeping track of the checkout process continuously.

5.)There is a red light on top of every counter, in case of an emergency the cashier can switch on the light which will call for the store manager.


BIG C (visited 3 outlets, 3 cities)
1.)Hyper market containing 34 checkout lanes in alphabetical order.
2.)The checkout lanes are categorized in groups.
• Category A- checkout for groceries, provisions.
• Category B- checkout for toiletries, cosmetics.
• Category C- checkout for apparels, households.
• Category Z- checkout for other items including electronics and big commodities.


The above information were obtained by self observation and interviewing few store managers of the retail chains.

The comparison being made here shows that the retail checkout process in India lacks big time. Tesco (U.K.), an international brand lays high importance to the checkout process when asked “Why” to one of the store managers; his answer was “reputation and customer satisfaction.” Big C, a local Thailand brand has got tremendously organized checkout systems which are being tracked by cameras and professionals every minute. When asked “Why” to one of the store keeper, the answer was “We cannot tolerate traffic at the checkout terminals.” Carrefour, a French brand has got standardized and highly organized checkout system throughout the world.

The local brand Big Bazaar is one among the top retail brands in India. They have 4-5 outlets across 26 cities. They deal with A-Z commodities with back-down prices. But, the biggest problem that has been faced by this giant is immense checkout traffic. There has not been much importance or training that has been given to this area. Big Bazaar would be looking for an international venture soon, before which they should definitely look into this issue. When a country like Thailand is able to produce such high quality brand like Big C, why Not India?

The above mentioned retail chains varies in its size, where the largest have a maximum of 46 lanes and the smallest have a minimum of 18 lanes.

The small retail chain 7/11 in Thailand can be called one of the most organized retail chains in the world, not only in terms of checkout, but also in terms of shelf management, variety of products, staffing and a very simple checkout system.