Soulfully elevating the desires and dilemmas of daily life to the swinging rhythms of jazz and blues with her crisp, powerful, and agile voice, Mathangi Jagdish is a woman with stories to tell. Mathangi honed her craft as a singer and performer by lending her voice to songs in South India’s film industry. This incredible list of composers that she has worked for includes the likes of Oscar-winning MM Keeravani of Naatu Naatu fame, Oscar and Grammy-winning A. R. Rahman, and the legendary Illayraja.
After twenty-plus years of experience and four hundred and fifty playback songs to her credit, 2023 will see the release of her debut EP of originals titled Major Troubles in Minor Blues. Written and composed by Mathangi, these songs cover everything from jibes at domestic drudgery to dealing with crippling procrastination, to a quest for life philosophy. Produced by National and Filmfare award-winning sound engineer KJ Singh, the EP is set to tunes laden with swing jazz, blues, and R&B peppered with a dash of Mathangi’s Carnatic music heritage. The EP consists of three tracks, Swingin like a Pendulum, Salt in my Kitchen, and Mr Procrastination. Each track brings a unique perspective on the struggles of life and showcases Mathangi's exceptional songwriting skills.
Swingin like a Pendulum is a track about the fluctuations in one's inner life state. The song’s melody takes you on a journey, mimicking the ups and downs of life. Mathangi's poignant lyrics, paired with her sultry voice, create a beautiful and emotive piece. Salt in my Kitchen is a cheeky song about having to do things you don't enjoy or aren't good at but are necessary. It explores the frustration of wanting to do what you love but not being able to do it due to obligations. Mathangi's playful and witty lyrics in this song are sure to make you smile. Mr. Procrastination is a track that hits close to home for many of us. It talks about the issues with procrastination, something that many struggle with. The song's upbeat tempo and lively instrumentation provide a stark contrast to the song's underlying message, making it a relatable yet entertaining listen.
What sets Mathangi's EP apart is its unusual topics. Rather than relying on typical love or heartbreak themes, Mathangi explores issues that are relatable yet not commonly spoken about. Her sassy and fresh approach to songwriting is further amplified by the Indian runs in her music, adding an unexpected twist to each track. Overall, Major Troubles in Minor Blues is an exceptional debut EP that showcases Mathangi Jagdish's talent as a singer-songwriter. Her unique perspective on life's struggles, coupled with her exceptional musical abilities, make this EP a must-listen for music lovers looking for something new and exciting.
Words Hansika Lohani
Date 28-06-2023