Soundtrack - The Next Best Thing
You've probably heard Madonna's version of American Pie, which is the featured single from this soundtrack. Don McLean has even given his approval of her version, which is climbing the pop charts. She puts an interesting spin on the song, but it isn't even the best Madonna song on this CD. "Time Stood Still", her other contribution to the soundtrack, is even better. The Next Best Thing is an eclectic mix of pop, rock, dance and electronica.
There is something for just about everyone on this soundtrack. For rock/folk fans, you've got Beth Orton's stunning track "Stars All Seem To Weep". If you love pop music, there are two Madonna tracks, plus a previously unreleased song by recent Best New Artist Grammy winner Christina Aguilera. If it's dance you want, there's Moby and Solar Twins. There are a couple of excellent world music type songs, too, by French singer Manu Chao and Metisse. In addition to Madonna's remake of American Pie, there's a remake of the 10cc song "I'm Not In Love" by the UK group Olive.
The movie, starring Madonna and Rupert Everett, hits theaters March 3rd, but the soundtrack is available now. The Next Best Thing an excellent CD, with very little filler and some intriguing new artists.
Steely Dan - Two Against Nature
It's been over 20 years since Steely Dan's last studio recording. They are back, and sounding better than ever. For those of you too young to remember, Steely Dan was huge in the 70's. They had tons of hits like "Rikki Don't Lose That Number", "Do It Again", and "Reeling In The Years". They were, and are, the thinking person's pop band. Their music is melodic and filled with hooks, but it is very complex, with sophisticated harmonies, lyrics, and multiple time signature changes.
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