Soundtrack: "Hairspray"

 

Listened to first: December 24, 2007 

The players: Nikki Blonsky as Tracy Turnblad, James Marsden as Corny Collins, Zac Efron as Link Larkin, Michelle Pfeiffer as Velma Von Tussle, Brittany Snow as Amber Von Tussle, John Travolta as Edna Turnblad, Elijah Kelley as Seaweed J. Stubbs, Queen Latifah as Motormouth Maybelle, Christopher Walken as Wilbur Turnblad

Facts of interest: Most of the songs were original to the Broadway production, except for a few slight changes. Marc Shaiman, music producer and composer, writes "'I Can Wait' is a ballad Scott (music engineer and mixer) and I wrote for the film, for when Tracy is locked up in Mrs. Pingleton's bomb shelter." They both agreed that a change of pace was needed after the slower performances of "Timeless to Me" and "I Know Where I've Been" to get high energy for the final scene.

The genres: Soundtrack, Musical

Our quick thoughts: The amount of energy given by every cast member, especially Nikki Blonsky, is tremendous. It will leave you swinging and swaying unable to "stop the beat." The 2-Disc collector's edition includes extras from the film, outtakes and alternate recordings, karaoke instrumental versions, lyrics, video documentaries, and music videos.

Must listen to: "Timeless to Me" and "You Can't Stop the Beat"

The final word: Not only is the music in "Hairspray" entertaining, but it also gives a positive message to listeners about issues including racial conflict, self-esteem, pride, and accepting differences.