A Soundtrack Far From Extinction
Posted by The Skyliner on October 28th, 2009Julie Cobb
Staff Writer
The soundtrack to the hit film Where the Wild Things Are combines childlike innocence with mysterious undertones to create a captivating sound.
The soundtrack features artists Karen O and the Kids and composer Carter Burwell, who also wrote the score for Twilight.
It does not fall into a particular genre, but is a unique combination of indie rock and a child’s book-on-tape.
The songs bring Spike Jonzes’ film back to life as they follow young Max on his adventure to find acceptance in life.
“All is Love” begins the magical journey with an enchanting and captivating rhythm. It was such a big hit that it is featured again as “Building All is Love” near the end of the soundtrack.
Although half of the songs on the CD are instrumental, such as “Igloo,” “Rumpus Reprise,” “Cliffs,” “Lost Fur,” “Food is Still Hot,” “Sailing Home” and “Animals,” they play a key role in setting the tone and vibe of the soundtrack. At the end of the song “Animals,” there are a series of howls that add extra excitement for the listener.
Other songs found on the soundtrack are “Capsize,” “Worried Shoes,” “Hideaway,” and “Heads Up.”
Karen O and Carter Burwell have also done a great job of capturing emotions within the music. In the song “Capsize,” it is easy to feel Max’s anger as he runs from his home.
The soundtrack to Where the Wild Things Are is a wonderful accompaniment to the movie by creating a magical atmosphere suitable for all ages.
Tags: Fall 2009, Vol. 109 - Issue 7