Category: Individual Tracks (CD’s)

SUMMARY:                                   RUNNING TIME: 4:21 Min.

This pop tune was recorded by Mick Smiley for 1984’s Ghostbusters film soundtrack. 

REVIEW:

This song’s most appealing asset is its original melody.  Despite the instrumentals outshining him, Mick Smiley’s vocal performance fits this moody tune well.  In particular, Smiley’s low-key tone comes vibrantly to life in the song’s second half.  While “Magic” is overshadowed by bigger names on the Ghostbusters album, it’s an under-the-radar option for bolstering ‘80s pop-rock home and workout playlists.    

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                         6½ Stars

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SUMMARY:                                  RUNNING TIME: 2:46 Min.

From the soundtrack of 1967’s You Only Live Twice starring Sean Connery, this James Bond tune was recorded by Nancy Sinatra.  This song has since been re-released on compilation albums — for instance, multiple updates of the Best of Bond … James Bond  (which includes the franchise’s theme songs to date).   

Note: Best of Bond .. James Bond includes a 40^th anniversary edition in 2002 and a subsequent update in 2008 for Chris Cornell’s “You Know My Name” from Casino Royale.

REVIEW:

In comparison to other 1960’s Bond tunes, Nancy Sinatra’s low-key effort is overshadowed –primarily by Shirley Bassey’s “Goldfinger.”  Yet, this dreamy tune serves as a precursor for Bassey’s own 1979 “Moonraker” and Rita Coolidge’s leisurely 1983 “All Time High.”  Of its creative components: Sinatra’s alluring vocals, endearing lyrics, and the gentle melody — all are solidly executed, but they’re not particularly memorable. 

If anything, “You Only Live Twice” is a welcome change of pace on Best of Bond, particularly after bombastic themes like Tom Jones’ “Thunderball.”      

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                        6 Stars

Note: For an instrumental cover, one might try finding Lifestyles’ 2001 Night at the Movies 2-disc set.  Emphasizing more the film’s Japanese setting, its orchestral rendition of “You Only Live Twice” (on Disc 2) makes a great addition to relaxation/sleep-aid playlists.  

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SUMMARY:                                     RUNNING TIME: 5:50 Min.

Performed by Bonnie Tyler, this glittery dance track appears on 1984’s Footloose movie soundtrack, as well as on its 15^th Anniversary edition released in 1998.  The song was composed by Jim Steinman & Dean Pitchford.         

REVIEW:

Bonnie Tyler’s vocals still sound great, but this relentlessly up-tempo (and overproduced) tune overstays its welcome by at least ninety seconds.  Still, listeners get their money’s worth, especially with the multiple instrumental choruses.  There’s no doubt that the track’s distinctive dance melody is one of the most memorable of the mid-80’s.  “Holding Out for a Hero” is at least a fun choice for any mid-80s playlists and/or for workouts.    

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                            6½ Stars

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SUMMARY:                            RUNNING TIME: 5:05 Min.

This upbeat rock tune was recorded by John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band for 1989’s Eddie and The Cruisers II soundtrack.  For the film, Cafferty handles actor Michael Paré’s on-screen vocals. 

REVIEW:

“Open Road” isn’t spectacular, but it resonates with an entertaining, wide-open sound.  If one obtains the complete Eddie II album, this catchy track won’t disappoint listeners.    

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                         6½ Stars