THE HUNGER GAMES: SONGS FROM DISTRICT 12 AND BEYOND - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (2012)




We usually don’t think much of companion albums for films, but this one hit sthe spot for us. The songs contained in this compilation capture the spirit of the science fiction action drama movie directed by Gary Ross so well, you can imagine the tunes dominating the airwaves in the post apocalyptic future in the nation of Panem.

The 16 track album kicks off with Arcade Fire’s “Abraham’s Daughter”, an atmospheric composition which paints a picture of hope amidst devastation. The track performed by the Canadian indie rock band is the first song in the film’s song credits. The second song you may remember is “Safe & Sound”, performed by Taylor Swift and featuring The Civil Wars. Swift’s beautiful vocals are perfect for the misty ballad, while singer songwriters Joy Williams and John Paul White back her up with their equally moving voices.

While the other 14 songs on this album are not included in the film, they somewhat complement the movie with their almost ethereal moods. “Tomorrow Will Be Kinder” by The Secret Sisters is an uplifting song which soothes the nerves, while Neko Case’s spiritual “Nothing To Remember” is an agreeable song you’d fall in love with easily. Elsewhere, there is the thumping “The Ruler and the Killer” by alternative hip hop artiste Kid Cudi and the pounding “Take the Heartland” by Irish songwriter and singer Glen Hansard (known for his Oscar winning “Falling Slowly” from Once) to jolt your senses.

The album is produced by Grammy winner T Bone Burnett, known for his contributions to films like Cold Mountain and Crazy Heart. Here, he has gathered a pool of talented artistes from today’s music industry and put together this album of new and exclusive tracks.

You’ll love “Come Away to the Water” by Maroon 5, featuring Rozzi Crane for its nature inspired arrangements, “Rules’ by Jaymee Dee for its carefree and laidback mood, and “Just a Game” by Birdy for its heavenly feel. With the album, you can also download the serene “Deep in the Meadow (Lullaby)” by Sting.

This highly recommended movie companion album is one you’ll never get tired listening of. The range of emotions experienced from the songs on this disc is something you’d have never felt before.

ALBUM RATING:



Recommended Track: 
 (1) Abraham's Daughter - Arcade Fire

Review by John Li

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TRACK LISTING
1
Abraham's Daughter - Arcade Fire
2
Tomorrow Will Be Kinder - The Secret Sisters
3
Nothing To Remember - Neko Case
4
Safe & Sound - Taylor Swift
5
The Ruler And The Killer - Kid Cudi
6
Dark Days - Punch Brothers
7
One Engine - The Decemberists
8
Daughter's Lament - Carolina Chocolate Drops
9
Kingdom Come - The Civil Wars
10
Take The Heartland - Glen Hansard
11
Come Away To The Water - Maroon 5
12
Run Daddy Run - Miranda Lambert
13
Rules - Jayme Dee
14 Eyes Open - Taylor Swift
15 Lover Is Childlike - The Low Anthem
16 Just A Game - Birdie

 

 ABOUT THE SOUNDTRACK

Artistes: Various
Label: Republic
Release Date: March 20, 2012