Nirayum Kannukal by Naseeb Nilambur

Nirayum Kannukal works because it does not try to do too much — it finds one feeling and holds it perfectly. The production by Haneefa Mudikkode is understated in the best way — supportive without overshadowing the vocal.

The vocal on Nirayum Kannukal is among the better performances Naseeb Nilambur has committed to record. a talented ensemble cast gave the film its soul, and Nirayum Kannukal is the song that most directly channels that feeling into music.

2020 was a strong year for Malayalam music, and Nirayum Kannukal was among the reasons why. There is a quality to Nirayum Kannukal that makes it feel like company — the kind of song you put on when words feel insufficient.

Running to 7:26, the song is exactly as long as it needs to be, which is the hardest length for a songwriter to find. The track stands as evidence that Naseeb Nilambur and Haneefa Mudikkode, working together, are capable of something well above the ordinary.