Album Review

Various – American Dreams

• 23rd Aug 2010

Music from “your favourite hit US dramas” may sound like a vague concept for a compilation CD, but this collection of new nostalgia not only encompasses a great range of TV shows (including Sex and the City, Gossip Girl and 90210), it’s bursting with an exciting mix of empowering anthems, smooth ballads and down-right classic tunes.

Disc one has something for everyone. It features some of this summer’s hottest artists (Ne-Yo, Ke$ha, Jason DeRulo…) with a smattering of some more alternative hits from the likes of the Killers, FallOut Boy and The Calling; and a few guilty (but poptastic!) pleasures such as Ricky Martin’s ‘She Bangs’ and ‘Lovebug’ from the Jonas Brothers.

Disc two starts off with arguably the most-memorable theme of all time – ‘I’ll be There For You.’ Unlike other compilations, this second CD does not consist of filler and/or lesser-known songs; it’s as strong as, if not stronger than, the first, with an equally varied amalgam of artists. Highlights on this disc are the indesputably enjoyable and retro “It’s Tricky” from Run D.M.C, and Phantom Planet’s sing-along summer theme from the O.C. “California”.

Both CDs also showcase the multi-skills of some of the TV shows’ stars, with the Glee Cast and the Gossip Girls Leighton Meester and Taylor Momsen (frontwoman for the Pretty Reckless) exercising their lungs for your pleasure.

If the weather ever improves, this is a must-have for BBQs and parties and will also provoke the debate: which show has the best soundtrack?