Rating: 4 out of 5
Baz Luhrmann’s iconic blockbuster films have produced equally iconic soundtracks in the past and the music selected to be showcased in The Great Gatsby soundtrack is no exception. There are some big name artists on this album and they don’t disappoint.
The sound:
Executive produced by Jay Z, it’s understandable why there is a distinct hip-hop flavour to the song selection. Set in the ‘Roaring Twenties’ (1920’s), music plays such a big part of setting the scene when it comes to period films, this compilation could never have been done without a nod to music of that era.
Interspersed with jazzy tunes, strumming strings and swinging horn riffs, The Great Gatsby soundtrack manages to combine the 20’s with modern music almost effortlessly.
The tracks:
With Jay Z working on this soundtrack, it’s also understandable that his wife Beyoncé made it onto the playlist (although we do agree that his wife’s talents are easily recognisable regardless of Jay Z giving her the nod!).
Favourite track is A Little Party Never Killed Nobody (All We Got) with Fergie featuring Q Tip and Goonrock. The high BPM, driving bassline, jazzy scatting and Fergie’s strong vocals make this a ridiculously catchy dance anthem.
Lana Del Rey slows it down with Young and Beautiful; a haunting, sad and smooth track with beautiful vocals.
A 20’s style quirky version of Beyoncé’s Crazy in Love performed by Emeli Sandé & The Bryan Ferry Orchestra keeps in line with the film’s setting perfectly. while Beyoncé herself and Andre 3000 cover Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black.
Additional artists who feature on the album include Gotye, Jack White, Nero, Florence + The Machines, and Jay Z even features. Big names aplenty!
The verdict:
Despite the hip hop influences and upbeat tempos, modern artists and sounds, Music from Baz Luhrmann’s Film The Great Gatsby manages to retain the musical influences of the period the film is set in but launches it into the 21st century. There are some fabulous songs on this album that will no doubt make it to exercise playlists around the country.
Image / Supplied