Coldplay, Lordes, Of Monsters and Men, Ellie Goulding, Sia, The Lumineers, Christina Aguilera, Imagine Dragons and the Weeknd, all in the same album? For a major motion picture such as Catching Fire, the second installment of the Hunger Games trilogy, I guess it makes sense. The featuring of so many mainstream artists on the record brought my attention here in the first place. I thought this could either be a train-wreck or musical genius.
I’m happy to note it’s the latter.
The overarching feeling of the songs on this album is somewhat eerie. Just by listening to the beat and musical composition of the songs, I was instantly reminded of the feeling that I received by watching the first film, a feeling of uncertainty and suspense. Without even watching the second film and just listening to this soundtrack, I knew that this movie was going to be very similar as far as the mood, to the first installment.
This movie soundtrack was tailored greatly to the film. Goulding even made reference to “the girl on fire” and “starcrossed lovers” in her song, “Mirror.” And we were reminded of the love conflict between main characters Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark by the songs sung by both Aguilera and Sia. I’m always enchanted by the voice of the legendary Christina Aguilera because of her unique voice and soulful lyrics. Her song on this album, “We Remain,” was no different. As for Sia, I’ve never been much of a fan, but I was intrigued by her song, “Elastic Heart,” featuring The Weeknd and Diplo. This song talks about a war-like love story where the heroine remains unscathed, obviously referring back to Everdeen. The chorus pronounces this, “Well I’ve got thick skin and an elastic heart, but your blade might be too sharp.”
I thought the intermixing of plot and the soundtrack music was a very original idea and enticing to listeners. In addition, I felt as though each of the featured artists were able to remain true to their own unique style. Imagine Dragons did this beautifully with their song “Who We Are.” The band is very unique and creates a mood with their music that is not recreatable by any other band I’ve heard, so maintaining their unique quality of alternative rock style was inevitable. Of Monsters and Men and Coldplay kept their natural band vibe; creating songs that I think would have sounded natural if placed on their individual albums.
Overall I think my favorite song on the album would have to be Lorde’s cover of “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” originally by Tears for Fears, recorded in 1985. This song fits in the mix of this soundtrack, talking about the quest for power and the hardships that follow. Lorde is a new artist to me, but I am very intrigued by the range in her voice. She hits notes gloriously, both high and low. This song fits her perfectly.
This album is great, and though I haven’t seen the movie yet, by listening to the soundtrack I am that much more excited to see it. The fact that mainstream artists would take a risk to put their names on this record shows that the “Hunger Games” trilogy is quality, and definitely worth watching.
By Brittany Cornelison
What do you think of the album?