GLEE THE 3D CONCERT MOVIE - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (2011)

To the Gleeks who are, ahem, not too well informed, we are sorry to dash your dreams: “Don’t Stop Believin’” isn’t an original composition created for the popular TV series. Believe it or not, it is a 20 year old song originally performed by American rock band Journey. With its energetic tune and relevant lyrics, the song has been described in music guide Allmusic as “an anthem for the young who wanted to feel free and unrestricted”.   

No wonder the producers of the cultural phenomenon known as Glee chose the song to be featured in the TV show.

It is hence apt to open this concert soundtrack album with the version performed by the Glee cast, before launching into other hits from the show. Fans would reminisce the moments during episodes where songs like “Dog Days Are Over”, “Sing” and “I’m A Slave 4 U” were featured. Fans would smile with the mental images of the good looking stars crooning songs like “P.Y.T (Pretty Young Thing)”, “Born This Way” and “Firework”. These covers would do the original performers Florence and the Machine, My Chemical Romance, Britney Spears, Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry proud.

One standout track from this 66 minute album is a beautiful rendition of English rock band The Beatles’ “I Want to Hold Your Hand”. Performed by Chris Colfer (who won the Golden Globe Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Kurt Hummel on the show), the three minute track is affectingly moving. Together with TV Carpio’s version from the 2007 film Across the Universe, this cover is one tune that will stick in our mind for a long time.

Other familiar tunes include covers of Pink’s “Raise Your Glass”, Barbra Streisand’s “Don’t Rain on My Parade” and Queen’s “Somebody to Love”. An original composition featured here is “Loser Like Me”, which was featured in the second season of the show.

It doesn’t matter if you are not a follower of the TV series. It doesn’t even matter if you haven’t caught the concert movie. This is one album that makes for easy listening any time of the day.

ALBUM RATING:

Recommended Track: (6) I Want To Hold Your Hand

Reviewed by John Li