Listen: A. R. Rahman's "Naan Varuvaen" (Tamil)

A. R. Rahman has never been one to give into the comfort zone trap, and the effort shows in the 2010 Mani Ratnam film Raavan. Zingy and an arresting blend of ethnic (Kata Kata) and wild African chants (Beera), the album is a bundle of upbeat sounds that's characterised by thumping beats and frenzied energy (Thok De Killi), while also incorporating free-flowing sonic structures (Behene De), sufi'esque elements (Ranjha Ranjha) and sedate classical-leaning harmonies (Khilli Re). The leisurely, soft strains of Naan Varuvaen — which doesn't feature in the Hindi soundtrack — is layered against Jali Fily Cissokho's kora, and is hymnal as it's hypnotic, even as Lament of The Leaves and Restless Mystic make for exotic, haunting instrumentals propelled along by fascinating turns and ominous atmosphere. Thudding percussion, dramatic strings and folk singer Chinnaponnu's guttural rendition set the tone for Yaaro Yevalo, a brooding rework of Kaattu Sirukki, paving the way for a thrilling climax in the closer, Kalingathu Bharani. The outcome, needless to say, is magnificent.