Category: Soundtracks (CD’s)

SUMMARY:                                  RUNNING TIME: 3:29 Min.

Performed by Karla Bonoff, the song appears on 1984’s Footloose film soundtrack, as well as its 15^th Anniversary edition released in 1998.  Dean Pitchford & Tom Snow co-wrote this song.   

REVIEW:

Considering how the Footloose soundtrack has a surplus of catchy mid-80’s pop-rock melodies, this track is really no exception.  Still, “Somebody’s Eyes” is unmistakably filler.  While it’s a decent catch as part of the full album’s download, the track isn’t likely worth a solo purchase.  

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                 5 Stars

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SUMMARY:                             RUNNING TIME: 3:47 Min.

This Moving Pictures rock tune appears on 1984’s Footloose film soundtrack, as well as its 15^th Anniversary edition released in 1998.  Dean Pitchford & Michael Gore co-wrote the song.   

REVIEW:

Despite being overshadowed by higher-profile tracks from the same album, “Never” has its own appeal.  Between solid instrumental work and terrific rock vocals, this fast-paced dance track is worth considering for ‘80s rock and workout playlists. 

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                             6 Stars

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SUMMARY:                            RUNNING TIME: 3:46 Min.

It’s the second of two songs that Kenny Loggins recorded for 1984’s Footloose film soundtrack.  This tune is included on the album’s 15^th Anniversary edition released in 1998.  Loggins co-wrote the track with collaborator Dean Pitchford.   

REVIEW:

Considering the popularity of Kenny Loggins’ title track, it’s not a surprise that “I’m Free (Heaven Helps the Man)” has long been overshadowed.  Yet, this track possesses some Loggins magic, even if “Footloose” is undeniably far catchier.  Curiously, history would repeat itself as 1986’s Top Gun soundtrack also double ups on Loggins.  Like before, his energetic “Playing With the Boys” wouldn’t prove nearly as popular as “Danger Zone.,” though it’s still a good song.

In this instance, too, “I’m Free (Heaven Helps the Man)” merits a fair shot at re-discovery.  Proving better than mere filler, it’s a likable addition for ‘80s rock-pop, soundtrack, and workout playlists.        

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                     6 Stars

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SUMMARY:                             RUNNING TIME: 5:09 Min.

Recorded by Air Supply for 1984’s Ghostbusters film soundtrack, it serves as the movie’s love theme.

REVIEW:

It’s hard to fathom this poignant track belongs to Ghostbusters, but “I Can Wait Forever” delivers high-caliber Air Supply.  To its credit, Ghostbusters’ love theme holds up in spite of its obviously mid-80’s melody and, more potently, an overdose of schmaltzy lyrics.  

If anything, this Air Supply tune balances spot-on vocals with sharp instrumental work (i.e. the piano accompaniment) making a welcome addition to easy listening playlists.    

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                    7 Stars

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SUMMARY:                                   RUNNING TIME: 4:13 Min.

Written and recorded by Eric Clapton, this soft rock tune is the fourth cut on 1985’s Back to the Future film soundtrack.   

REVIEW:

Clapton is in decent form.  Still, like Lindsey Buckingham’s paycheck-cashing “Time Bomb Town,” Clapton’s “Heaven is One Step Away” is utterly no match for Huey Lewis & The News on this same album.  Even the tracks by the movie’s fictional ‘Marvin Berry & The Starlighters’ sound far more alive than either Clapton or Buckingham.  

Instantly forgettable, “Heaven is One Step Away” is a demure filler tune that is best enjoyed as part of the complete soundtrack.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                      5 Stars

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