M.I.A. – Arular *****

Review by Bharat Chari

New Revolution. Powerful Music and Lyrics that keep it Real.

Maya Apurlagasam’s (known as M.I.A.) debut album, “Arular”, is a Winner.

“Arular” is a 12 track journey that energizes your thirst and grabs your mind.  The beats and sounds are spectacular (the album is well produced) but the soul of the album is Arulpragasam’s singing that evokes a pure sense of confidence and keeps the journey real.  The entire rap/dancehall/electro album blends really well. Tracks 6&7,”Amazon” and “Bingo” further add substance and keep the music listening intact.  The album ends with the song, “Galang” – which has already become a major hit worldwide.

“Arular” is an excellent album that will continue to shake international waves and will strengthen the awareness and interest of a talented artist that is here to stay. 

Maya’s roots and background are reflected heavily in her music.  Her identity is extraordinary.  She comes from a Sri Lankan Tamil family and has lived in Sri Lanka, Madras and England as she was growing up.  Maya’s father, who became politically known as “Arular” was a founding member of EROS (the Eelam Revolutionary Organisation of Students), a militant Tamil group.  Maya’s early childhood exposed her to tough and challenging situations and realness of life.   At the early age of eleven, Maya moved to Surrey, England and was exposed to western radio and developed interest in hip-hop and rap music including bands such as Public Enemy and N.W.A.  Later, she studied at London’s Central Saint Martins Art School and excelled there with her artistic talent, which included a very successful art exhibition.  Maya then provided some artwork for the band, Elastica and toured with the band across the U.S., video-documenting the event. Soon after, Maya developed a six song demo and collaborated with Steve Mackey and Ross Orton, producers known as Cavemen for the successful hit song “Galang”.  Arular came out in February 2005 and has already created a lot of buzz and positive interest around the world.

M.I.A.’s album creatively and successfully pushes the envelope and provides a feeling of release from an artist that shines light to a new revolution of fresh music.   

M.I.A will be performing (along with another interesting up-and-coming band, LCD Soundsystem) in Boston, MA on June 9, 2005 at Avalon – 15 Lansdowne Street.

|