A Few Heroes but Lots of Ordinary Men
Cult US TV shows frequently feature a soundtrack laced with top quality groups who'll set their young fans' feet a-twitching and 'Heroes' is no exception with an official soundtrack boasting the likes of The New Pornographers, Imogen Heap and The Jesus and Mary Chain. While shows like The OC groomed new young bands on their soundtrack, Heroes comes out all guns a blazing with even Bob Dylan featured among the 18 tracks. Whether any of this music played a prominent part in the series is another thing, but there's plenty of great musical ammunition on this CD.
This record is packed with frivolous teen tunes like Panic At The Disco's, 'Nine In The Afternoon' and Wilco's hopelessly optimistic, 'Glad It's Over' while 'All For Swinging You Around' hits the fun-filled teen vibe right on with its sun-soaked upbeat melody. Music from Wendy & Lisa who were better known for collaborating with Prince in the 80's, also punctuates the soundtrack with its mystic instrumentals which are probably far more familiar to viewers of the series than the pop fare. Bright and chirpy indie musing continues with 'Chills' by My Morning Jacket with psychedelic guitar sounds ringing out, while Death Cab For Cutie's, 'Jealousy Rides With Me' is a gentle, emotional slow-burner.
Clearly aimed at a certain demographic, the Heroes Soundtrack offers emotional indie rock with a few interesting touches like the soft electro fluttering of Imogen Heap's, 'Not Now But Soon' and new Jesus and Mary Chain track, 'All Things Must Pass' with its chugging guitars and lazy vocals. As the band's first new track in ten years it's a pretty big draw for the soundtrack, and amidst the quivering indie tunes, the band's warm and forceful guitar tone instantly makes you sit up and listen. Another breath of gritty rock sincerity is of course Bob Dylan's, 'Man In The Long Black Coat' while Bowie's, 'Heroes' cheesily concludes this musical mixed batch.