Thaman and Balakrishna have delivered some memorable music in recent years. Akhanda, Bhagavanth Kesari, Veera Simha Reddy and Daaku Maharaj had decent songs and particularly powerful background scores that elevated the films. However, their latest combination in Dada is facing a very different response.
The makers released the Dada Dhamaka song, featuring Balakrishna and Bollywood actress Nargis Fakhri. Balakrishna himself sang the song along with Rajani Sri Poornima, while Ramajogayya Sastry penned the lyrics. Sekhar Master choreographed the number, with Thaman composing the music.
Unfortunately, the song has not generated the expected excitement. A few listeners are trolling Thaman for repeating the same musical patterns, tunes and arrangements. Several comments suggest that the song sounds like another version of his earlier Balakrishna numbers, with only the lyrics changing. Even the song’s picturization looks nothing new.
This backlash comes at a time when Thaman is already under fire for his recent musical output. Despite working on several big projects, including Raja Saab and Aadarsha Kutumbam AK47, he has struggled to deliver memorable albums. Aadarsha Kutumbam, in particular, disappointed listeners who expected much more from a Trivikram film.
His latest work in Itllu Arjuna received a comparatively better response. Just when that film offered some relief, Dada Dhamaka has brought the trolling back.
Of course, not everyone has disliked the song. Some fans continue to appreciate Thaman’s contribution to Balakrishna’s recent films. But a music director known for delivering energetic chartbusters is increasingly being accused of recycling a familiar template instead of offering something fresh.
The problem is particularly serious for Dada. The film is already looking like one of Balakrishna’s least-hyped releases in recent times. Even his hardcore fans are not showing their usual excitement.
With a December 24 release approaching, director Gopichand Malineni needs to deliver something genuinely exciting through the trailer and remaining promotional assets. Another routine Balakrishna entertainer may not be enough this time to survive in theatres.
And Thaman needs to justify his title Nandamuri Thaman once again.
