Harivarasanam by Kallara Gopan

Harivarasanam is one of those rare Malayalam tracks that manages to feel both fresh and familiar the moment it begins. Behind the melody is the work of Nadesh Shanker, whose composition choices give Harivarasanam its distinctive texture.

The voice of Kallara Gopan carries Harivarasanam effortlessly, which is the highest compliment a song can give its singer. The chemistry of a talented ensemble cast is embedded in every moment of Harivarasanam, making it as much a performance as a song.

2020 was a strong year for Malayalam music, and Harivarasanam was among the reasons why. Harivarasanam is the song for the end of a long day when you want music that understands something without being asked to explain it.

Running to 5:15, the song is exactly as long as it needs to be, which is the hardest length for a songwriter to find. Songs like Harivarasanam are the reason people fall in love with Malayalam music and never quite fall out of it.