Category: Pop, R&B, Soul, & Dance

SUMMARY:                         RUNNING TIME: 3:16 Min.

This offbeat pop tune by Murray Head was first recorded as a single for the 1984 concept album that preceded the high-profile stage musical, Chess.  The song’s chorus is performed by Swedish performer Anders Glenmark.  The tune’s  celebrity writing team includes Tim Rice and two ABBA alums: Benny Andersson & Björn Ulvaeus.  “One Night in Bangkok” has occasionally resurfaced on compilation albums, including 2000’s Broadway’s Greatest Leading Men. 

Note: A five-minute version (which incorporates an orchestral overture) is also available on the official Chess soundtrack.

REVIEW:

Despite throwing shade at Thai culture, the song’s upbeat nature still delivers an entertaining analogy to the stage play’s Cold War-era chess match.  Notably, without its symphonic overture, the tune starts somewhat abruptly.  While Murray Head and Anders Glenmark deliver spot-on performances, the track’s best and most intriguing component is its distinctive melody. 

Considering the star power that composed this radio-friendly gem, “One Night in Bangkok” is a show tune worth re-discovery.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                       8 Stars

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SUMMARY:                                RUNNING TIME: 3:16 Min.

This up-tempo dance track by Shakira appears on 2016’s Zootopia animated film soundtrack.

REVIEW:

Shakira’s vocals spelling out anthropomorphic rabbit Judy Hopps’ optimistic attitude exploring big city life exude a contagious charm.  Her song’s commendable message reiterates that mistakes will happen, but getting back up afterwards and trying again, no matter if one fails, is what really counts.  Not only is the melody undeniably catchy, Shakira’s energetic vocals prove a considerable asset. 

Though meant for youngsters, the sunny “Try Everything” might be an ideal choice for aerobic workout playlists.    

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                8½ Stars

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SUMMARY:                            RUNNING TIME: 4:00 Min.

This Academy Award-nominated tune is a British collaboration between musician Mark Knopfler and vocalist Willy DeVille. 

REVIEW:

If any musical track defines The Princess Bride, it has to be this one. The teamwork between Mark Knopfler & Willy DeVille is superb.  As an addition to any soundtrack, relaxation, or sleep aid playlist, this gentle track is highly recommended!

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                9 Stars

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SUMMARY:                            RUNNING TIME: 3:44 Min.

Actress Amanda Seyfried performs this piano-driven ABBA cover to conclude Mamma Mia!’s 2008 soundtrack. 

REVIEW:

It’s moody and low-key in an old-fashioned nightclub sort of a way.  As performed by Amanda Seyfried, this self-reflective epilogue is reminiscent of a Broadway solo.  The gentle piano melody is terrific, as Seyfried’s soft vocals exude a wonderful charm making this tune a keeper.    

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                           8 Stars

Note: Even better is Seyfried’s similar rendition of “I Have a Dream” from the same album.  It’s a gem!

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SUMMARY:                               RUNNING TIME: 3:51 Min.

Covering ABBA, actresses Meryl Streep & Amanda Seyfried perform this mother-and-daughter ballad from Mamma Mia!’s 2008 soundtrack. 

REVIEW:

Describing the poignant bond between mother and a now-grown daughter, it’s perhaps the most eloquent track off the Mamma Mia!  album.  As a duet, Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried’s gentle chemistry is excellent.  “Slipping Through My Fingers” is highly recommended for any favorite soundtrack and/or pop playlist.  

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                 9 Stars

Note: Streep’s “The Winner Takes It All” ballad is among other winners off this same album.

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SUMMARY:                           RUNNING TIME: 2:57 Min.

As a trio, in solo turns, and with back-up help, Colin Firth, Stellan Skarsgard, & Pierce Brosnan cover this ABBA tune for 2008’s Mamma Mia! soundtrack.  Amanda Seyfried makes a late contribution (including on the chorus), and evidently Meryl Streep does, too, on chorus.

REVIEW:

The amateurism of Stellan Skarsgard and Pierce Brosnan fits the song’s corny lyrics – keeping in mind that their characters waxing middle-age nostalgia aren’t supposed to be polished vocalists.  Colin Firth’s presence stands out more, as he imbues this tune’s storytelling with some welcome poignancy.  Even better is how Skarsgard, Brosnan, and Firth surprisingly mesh as a trio – the end result is good as it could have been hoped for. 

As for Amanda Seyfried’s contribution, her assigned lyrics are slightly silly, but she adds welcome energy late in the song.  “Our Last Summer” is among the soundtrack’s weakest efforts, but the tune is still likable enough.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                           6 Stars

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