Category: CD’s

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Individual Tracks (CD's) Music & Radio Shows Soundtracks (CD's)

IS HE THE ONE? (by John Barry: Somewhere in Time movie soundtrack)

SUMMARY:                                 RUNNING TIME: 3:14 Min.

From 1980’s Somewhere in Time film soundtrack, composer-conductor John Barry delivers this instrumental tune (Track # 6).  “Is He the One?” depicts actress Elise McKenna (Jane Seymour) contemplating whether or not her romantic destiny lies with mysterious newcomer Richard Collier (Christopher Reeve), who has crossed space and time to be with her.    

REVIEW:

Reprising elements from the main theme once more, John Barry’s symphonic work continues to express its poignant magic.  Though this tune isn’t distinctive, it blends seamlessly into the soundtrack’s romantic storytelling.     

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                       8 Stars

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Individual Tracks (CD's) Music & Radio Shows Soundtracks (CD's)

A DAY TOGETHER (by John Barry: Somewhere in Time movie soundtrack)

SUMMARY:                               RUNNING TIME: 6:07 Min.

From 1980’s Somewhere in Time film soundtrack, composer-conductor John Barry delivers this instrumental tune (Track # 4).  Having transported himself back in time from 1980 to 1912, “A Day Together” depicts lovestruck playwright Richard Collier (Christopher Reeve) courting stage actress Elise McKenna (Jane Seymour) on the scenic grounds of Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel. 

REVIEW:

Again reiterating elements from his poignant main title theme, John Barry’s symphonic storytelling epitomizes a romantic instrumental piece.  This classy track is highly recommended!

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                         9 Stars

Categories
Individual Tracks (CD's) Music & Radio Shows Soundtracks (CD's)

SOUTHERN LIFE {1985’s North and South} (by Bill Conti & The London Symphony Orchestra: Highlights from The Right Stuff/North and South)

SUMMARY:                                     RUNNING TIME: 1:39 Min.

In 1985, composer/conductor Bill Conti and The London Symphony Orchestra released an instrumental album consisting of highlights from 1983’s The Right Stuff and 1985’s initial North and South TV mini-series.  This short track is a thematically light backdrop for some North and South sequences set in pre-Civil War South Carolina.    

Note: As of 2008, a limited-edition CD set of Conti highlights from North and South Books One & Two was released.

REVIEW:

Considering its short length, one can’t really knock composer-conductor Bill Conti’s unremarkable work on “Southern Life.”  At least, he briefly incorporates slow-brewing discontent towards the public spectacle of pre-war Southern culture.  This instrumental isn’t a primary North and South theme, but it quietly conveys the opulent Deep South world inhabited by some of the saga’s pivotal characters. 

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                        5 Stars

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Humor (CD's) Individual Tracks (CD's) Music & Radio Shows Soundtracks (CD's)

SOMEBODY KILL ME (by Adam Sandler: The Wedding Singer, Volume 1 movie soundtrack)

SUMMARY:                                     RUNNING TIME: 1:52 Min.

It’s the thirteenth track off 1998’s initial Wedding Singer movie soundtrack.  Performed in character by star Adam Sandler, the track includes a dialogue clip intro by Sandler’s ‘Robbie Hart.’  There’s a fast dialogue reply afterwards by co-star Drew Barrymore’s ‘Julia Sullivan.’  Sandler collaborated with Tim Herlihy to co-write the song. 

REVIEW:

As Sandler’s ‘Robbie Hart’ acknowledges, his supposed song (i.e. the melody) is reminiscent of The Cure.  Not surprisingly, Sandler’s vocal talents are wasted on this material that falls far short of good taste. 

Considering how the profanity-laced lyrics spells out the title’s suicidal rant after a romantic rejection, one is hard-pressed to find this parody remotely amusing.  The dreadful “Somebody Kill Me” will likely appeal only to Sandler’s perpetual fanbase.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                     1½ Stars

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Individual Tracks (CD's) Music & Radio Shows Rock, R&B, Pop, Soul, & Metal/Symphonic Soundtracks (CD's)

ROCK & ROLL HIGH SCHOOL {1979’s Rock & Roll High School} (by The Ramones: VH1 – The Big 80’s — The Big Movies)

SUMMARY:                               RUNNING TIME: 2:20 Min.

Recorded by The Ramones, this track headlines the same-named 1979 film.  The tune would subsequently resurface on 1998’s VH1: The Big 80’s – The Big Movies compilation album.

REVIEW:

Reminiscent of old school pop rock, this track retains some modest charm.  When in the right mood, it could inspire brief nostalgia for one’s high school days.  The song itself isn’t worth downloading, but hearing The Ramones rendering this tune is still an occasional treat.   

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                           5 Stars

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DISNEY/PIXAR-Related Individual Tracks (CD's) Music & Radio Shows Soundtracks (CD's)

PART OF YOUR WORLD {1989’s The Little Mermaid} (by Jodi Benson: Classic Disney, Volume 2)

SUMMARY:                             RUNNING TIME: 3:14 Min.

Co-composed by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, this track was performed by Jodi Benson as ‘Ariel’ for 1989’s The Little Mermaid movie soundtrack.  The song would resurface on 1995’s Classic Disney, Vol. 2 compilation album.   

REVIEW:

Impressively, Jodi Benson’s vocals bring the restless ‘Ariel’ to life, particularly the irrepressible longing she possesses to explore the surface world.  Ideally melding poignancy and exuberance with a relatable sense of child-like curiosity, Benson makes every moment of this poignant tune count.  Her knock-out performance ensures that “Part of Your World” deserves a reservation on any kid-friendly playlist.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                       8½ Stars

Note: If the film soundtrack isn’t available, two additional Little Mermaid tunes, Samuel E. Wright’s “Under the Sea” and “Kiss the Girl,” are included on Classic Disney, Vol. 1.

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DISNEY/PIXAR-Related Individual Tracks (CD's) Music & Radio Shows Soundtracks (CD's)

UNDER THE SEA {1989’s The Little Mermaid} (by Samuel E. Wright: Classic Disney, Volume 1)

SUMMARY:                                   RUNNING TIME: 3:14 Min.

Co-composed by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, this track was performed by Samuel E. Wright for 1989’s The Little Mermaid movie soundtrack.  The song would resurface on 1995’s Classic Disney, Vol. 1 compilation album.   

REVIEW:

This wonderful reggae tune remains a joy to hear.  The colorful lyrics are matched by a catchy melody, making it an tempting advertisement to watch The Little Mermaid again.  “Under the Sea” is a gem worthy of any kiddie-friendly playlist.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                        8 Stars

Note: Wright’s “Kiss the Girl” is also included on the same compilation album.  Jodi Benson’s “Part of Your World” appears on 1995’s Classic Disney, Vol. 2.

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Categories
DISNEY/PIXAR-Related Individual Tracks (CD's) Music & Radio Shows Soundtracks (CD's)

KISS THE GIRL {1989’s The Little Mermaid} (by Samuel E. Wright: Classic Disney, Volume 1)

SUMMARY:                              RUNNING TIME: 2:43 Min.

Co-composed by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, this track was performed by Samuel E. Wright for 1989’s The Little Mermaid movie soundtrack.  The song would resurface on 1995’s Classic Disney, Vol. 1 compilation album.   

REVIEW:

This reggae-lite tune impressively brings to life the animated movie’s romanticism.  Samuel E. Wright deserves kudos for a charming vocal performance – it’s the most vital asset of this song.  Aging remarkably well, “Kiss the Girl” is a nifty little gem worthy of any kid-friendly playlist.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                       8 Stars

Note: Wright’s “Under the Sea” is also included on the same compilation album.  Jodi Benson’s “Part of Your World” appears on 1995’s Classic Disney, Vol. 2.

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Individual Tracks (CD's) Music & Radio Shows Soundtracks (CD's)

HILL STREET BLUES {Cover: TV Series Theme} (by The Daniel Caine Orchestra: NYPD Blue – The Best of Mike Post)

SUMMARY:                                 RUNNING TIME: 3:07 Min.

The 1981-87 NBC TV opening credits theme was composed by Mike Post.  As an extended cover, The Daniel Caine Orchestra performs the tune for its 1999 instrumental tribute album, NYPD Blue: The Best of Mike Post. 

REVIEW:

It’s an ideal extension of Mike Post’s work.  For fans and/or TV soundtrack enthusiasts, if the original version isn’t available, this cover is perhaps one’s best back-up option.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                          7 Stars

Note: Post’s original TV theme appears on 1990’s Television’s Greatest Hits, Vol. 3: ‘70s & 80’s album.

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Categories
Individual Tracks (CD's) Music & Radio Shows Rock, R&B, Pop, Soul, & Metal/Symphonic

UPTOWN GIRL (by Bill Joel: An Innocent Man)

SUMMARY:                         RUNNING TIME: 3:17 Min.

Released on Billy Joel’s 1983 album, An Innocent Man, this upbeat track remains synonymous with Joel’s romance and subsequent 10-year marriage to Christie Brinkley.  Ironically, at the time of its writing, the song actually meant to homage Joel’s then-romantic relationship with model Elle Macpherson (before he met Brinkley).

REVIEW:

It’s understandable why “Uptown Girl” is one of Billy Joel’s signature tunes since he’s definitely on his game.  Every element of this appealing tune is right where it should be.  For any 80’s pop playlist, this track is recommended.   

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                       7 Stars

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