Mani Sharma's albums have always raised expectations. This one is no exception. Helped by the experienced Bhaskarabhatla, he delivers an album that has the potential to entertain sections of mass and class audiences.
The choice of singers is the saving grace.
Rabbaru Banthi
Artists: Narendra, Sudhamayi
Lyricists: Bhaskarabhatla Ravikumar
Rabbaru Banthi is in the mass-y mould. Quite apt for a hero like Aadhi and a heroine like Rakul Preet Singh. Bhaskarabhatla's lyrics remind one of the item songs written for top stars. Narendra and Sudhamayi are sure to make a mark with their formidable renditions. But Mani Sharma doesn't manage to live up to his standards here.
Oye Oye Meettapillaku
Artist: Karunya
Lyricist: Bhaskarabhatla Ravikumar
The song begins as an ode to love. Bhaskarabhatla goes on to write the hero's gospel truth inspiring the youth to love and love. Karunya's redoubtable rendition is endearing. Mani Sharma's instrumentation shows that he is a dab hand when it comes to his craft.
Edukondala Venkata
Artists: Narendra, Shravana Bhargavi
Lyricist: Bhaskarabhatla Ravikumar
The conversational lyrics are in the typical style of the lyricist. The beginning is quite hackneyed but the conversational lyrics catch your attention although you might have given up on the song by then. Shravana Bhargavi's unique vocals work here, yet again. Narendra lends his own to the song.
Abbobbo Veedu
Artist: Pavan Charan
Lyricist: Bhaskarabhatla Ravikumar
Mani Sharma finally delivers a hero-centric song and proves that he is among the most dependable when it comes to dishing out such a number. The lyrics are rather mundane. Pavan Charan gives a good output.
Ee Vennela Bommani
Artist: Pavan Charan
Lyricist: Bhaskarabhatla Ravikumar
Finally, the 'Melody Brahma' in Mani Sharma comes to the fore. Mani could not have found a better singer than Pavan Charan for this song. Pavan's voice is youngish. The lyrics are at their imaginative best here. All in all, the song is sure to be a hit.
Nandu I Love You
Artist: Hemachandra
Lyricist: Bhaskarabhatla Ravikumar
The youthful number is apt for an entertainer like this. But apart from the routine stuff, it has nothing to offer. Mani Sharma disappoints by dishing out a rather lame one, sans any musical imagination. Hemachandra is the only saving grace. The lyrics pass muster.
Edukondala Venkata Simha
Artist: Simha, Sravana Bhargavi
Lyricist: Bhaskarabhatla Ravikumar
The song is a repetition of the earlier song with same title. Quite an enjoyable addition.
Verdict: Mani Sharma dishes out in his own style for this youthful entertainer. He may not be back in full form but he proves that he is a thoroughgoing entertainer even in 2014.
Rating: 3/5