Thursday, June 17, 2010

An Eclipse Soundtrack Critique

Here's how this is going to work -- originally, I planned on writing my thoughts on every single song but if I did that I wouldn't be able to finish this until Breaking Dawn Part 2 (Birth of the Creepy Kid) came out.

On DVD.

I admit that I was kind of torn about not doing that but my mind was made up when ML threatened to toss my laptop out the window after I listened to each songs about thirteen times. In a row.

Did I mention I wasn't using headphones?

Instead, I've decided to divide this out - The Fuck Yeah, The What the Fuck?, and Meh. I'll cover which songs stuck out the most in each category. Those that aren't included really didn't impress me enough or enrage me enough to make it in this critique at all. I mean let's face it - these are just my very strong opinions. I'm definitely no Pitchfork Media, after all.

Where opinions run rampant... but they're good, hipster opinions...

Overall, my synopsis of this soundtrack is that it's good. The underlying theme that seems to run through the songs is a sense of urgency, of something impending, and I think it's absolutely spot on to the story line of Eclipse. Sure, there were a few duds in there, and a couple of the tracks made me want to smack old ladies, but overall, I think this is the best soundtrack out of the three.

Let's get started, shall we?

What the Fucks

Neutron Star Collision (Love is Forever) - Muse
First thing out of my mouth was "who the FUCK is this terrible band?" So yeah, I didn't like it. I know so many of you absolutely love this band and I will say that I think all their songs are always very put together and well -- if not over -- produced. Let's put it this way - the band itself isn't necessarily bad, they've just made a bad choice with this song.

This particular song is simply beyond "over the top". It smacks of Meatloaf-ness levels of theatrical-out-there-ness. Honestly, it belongs on an off Broadway musical about plaintive teenagers coming of age more than it belongs on this soundtrack.

Ours - The Bravery
There is poppy, and then there is poppy on No-Doz, wearing an ironically cheesy outfit, replete with handle bar mustache and whatever the fuck it is that people-who-try-too-hard-to-be-cool-without-looking-like-they're-trying-to wear. It's the kind of pop that, after hearing the first few beats, you think "huh, this ain't bad" but then you realize that's only because the band sounds exactly like a band from, oh, about 20 years ago or so and they're not pulling it off. They're just kind of sympathetically amusing and silly looking.

This is that song. Sam Endicott's voice grates my nerves to the core and the eighties synth pop is cheesy and cliched.

My Love - Sia
The biggest disservice they could have done to Sia was to put her song immediately after Florence and the Machine. I actually had to listen to the album on a random shuffle so I wouldn't be overly influenced by the heavier sound of Florence and the Machine. Florence and the Machine is in your face. It stomps into your ear drums and dances around your tendons and muscles whether you want it or not.

Sia is the opposite. Her voice is perilously close to being whiny. It's kind of whimsical, but I suspect because this is a more somber song that shies away from a poppier sound that Sia seems to favor. Or, tries to favor. In general, her music is flat. It floats the possibility of having a potential for something, but tapers off into a conventional dullness that, on a good day, makes my fingers twitch for the "skip" button. On a bad day -- I just want to delete this shit from my iPod.

Awww, you cute little fairy. Your music still fails.

The Line - Battles
This band, according to Wikipedia (aka, it's probably not entirely accurate), calls this band an "experimental rock supergroup". I call this band an experimental rock supersuck because, well, they suck. Or, at least, this particular song does.

While I tend to get my "experimental rock" genres mixed up with other various genres such as "noise rock" or "ambient rock" (yet another reason why I would never, ever be asked to write a music review on, say, a music blog), this song teeters on the edge of "fucking annoying rock" for one hot second before it plummets into the abyss of suckdom.

As I listen to this song, I can't help but conjure up scenes from Pee Wee's Big Adventure and the frenetic coked-up tempo that suddenly turns into a ridiculous big-top-circus-y-free-for-all makes my eardrums ache and my brain overdose on the grandiose stink of it all.


The Meh

Eclipse (All Yours) - Metric:

If there is a cookie cutout for indie rock bands, I imagine that Metric would be able to fit their sound into it quite comfortably, and I don't mean that insultingly. Soft and breathy, Emily Haines' vocals float whimsically and dreamily over smooth and familiar guitar riffs. This is not to say that the song is bad -- it's simply extremely palatable in a very bubbly, sugary way.

Personally, I've never been enthralled with a band that is easily interchangeable with hundreds of different bands and it's a shame, because Haines is no stranger to the indie scene, having lent her voice to Broken Social Scene on their 2002 album, You Forgot it in People.



Jonathan Low - Vampire Weekend
Shocked this made it into the Mehs? Yeah, me too. I love Vampire Weekend - I think they are a buttoned up group of folks who mix rock with African pop beats like it's nobody's business. While Jonathan Low has all the good mixins' for a Vampire Weekend hit, it falls just short of usual pulsing, vibrant tunes.

Like this one, for example:


Let's Get Lost - Beck and Bat for Lashes
Though I've never heard of Bat for Lashes prior to this soundtrack, I am quite familiar with Beck, which may be the only reason this song even made this critique.

My first thought upon hearing this tune was "this is cheesy as shit." It's a little silly and sounds like it belongs on a soundtrack from an 80's movie and I almost half expect to see Maverick and Goose walking down the tarmac or something.

However, I can't deny that instrumentation of this song is pretty damn tight, with the perfect beats as background a various array of keyboards and synthesizers.

The Fuck Yeahs

Heavy in our Arms -
Florence and the Machine
This song is one of those songs that, for a brief moment, trembles on the precipice of being just too much. Too in your face, too urgent, too desperate in its emotions -- but it ends up filling out beautifully, spreading into a wonderful balance of all that too much so that it really isn't enough at the end of it. It's the kind of song that I find myself leaning into, trying to glean every last note, every nuance of her heavy, commanding contralto and I can't help but hear a whisper of Annie Lennox from the Eurythmics in her tone. This is not a bad thing, not in the least.


Atlas - Fanfarlo:
Fanfarlo is like Okkervil River and Crooked Fingers getting together for a drink and a jam session. It's easy going, folky as fuck but cleverly bouncy. There is no doubt that these dudes know their way around more than a few guitars and drum-kit. Among other things

They've taken two genres of rockin' out and melded them together seamlessly, the Mandolin creating a dancing little ditty that has my toes tapping and my head bopping, regardless of just how many people stare at me in the subway.

Chop and Change - The Black Keys
I once told Shore Whore Ninja that I didn't particularly care for The Black Keys. I'd like to recant that statement.

This song has a slightly gritty, totally bluesy sexy bad-ass sound that snakes into your head and refuses to leave. The keys and the strings perform a nasty dance with the heavy bass and drums and the gravelly rumble of Dan Auerbach's vocals do funny things to my insides.

Let's put it this way -- if this song was a patron at a bar he would be that guy with a cowboy hat, tattoos and a sexy confident smirk who was sipping cheap whiskey and smoking even cheaper cigarettes.

Rolling in on a Burning Tire - The Dead Weather
The blues are definitely en force on this soundtrack, though they take a Southern gothic turn on this tune. Alison Mosshart's voice is sex and gasoline and rides on (and above) the talents of Jack White and Dean Fertita.

With a hint of psychedelic sixties and sultry sinister darkness, this song is straight, steady and strong.


Life on Earth - Band of Horses
This band is like a balm to my soul. I love soothing crooning of Ben Bridwell's voice, accompanied by the soft, ever present keys/organs and the strumming of who-knows-what: electric and acoustic guitars for sure, though I detected something that is either a hollow bodied guitar and a banjo, being strummed instead of plucked.

There is an intensity and beauty in a sound that seems, at first listen, to be somewhat mellow and almost shy. But then the truth comes out.



So there you have it!

Please let us know what YOU thought of the soundtrack. What did you love? What made you want to smother small kittens in ketchup?

And which songs do you think will show up in which scenes? I know I've already been making my bets...

62 comments:

  1. i love this soundtrack not as much as the first but it comes right after..and NM very very last. i love sia and freak muse. and im happy to see some artist ive never heard of b4..i cant wait to buy it..ah band of horses and florence and tha machine...all groups i love! and vampire weekend(a new fave)

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  2. i haven't really listened to the soundtrack too much but i actually agree with you exactly on every single category you've placed these songs under, except Florence and the machine, in my opinion that can go to the What the fucks - cannot stand it, but i just really dont like her music, so i could be biased with this song haha

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  3. Ok, so I agree with you on some of those, disagree with others, and the rest I could care less about. So we don't have the same taste in music, but life would be boring if we all agreed on everything. I do have to say that I absolutely love Florence + the Machine's song, I've been listening to it so much this past week. And I do have to say that although I agree that Neutron Star Collision is so unbelievably over the top, I kinda think that that's what I like most about it. I know it's cheesy and theatrical, but for some reason, I still love it. I mean, Twilight is also extremely over the top and narmy, but we all still love it, so I think that song goes well on this soundtrack.

    Chop and Change is also one of my favorites, it just sticks in my head.

    And I love Sia, and although I do love My Love, I think she's done better. But I think this song would be well-placed in the background of some quiet ExB moment, like the first meadow scene.

    Overall, I can't decide which soundtrack I like the best. But I love hearing your opinions on it (and, let's be honest, on a lot of other things, too), JJ.

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  4. I very nearly agree with your reviews, but with with one glaring omission from your Fuck Yeahs - Chop & Change by The Black Keys. That song makes me wanna drink bootlegged hootch in a juke joint in the deep south.

    Oh, and of course, drunk fuck Edward when I get home.

    MC
    The Cougar's Den

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  5. seriously? its like you stepped into my brain and took all my thoughts right out.

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  6. @MamaCougar - Mama!!! Did you read it?! Um, I gave the Black Keys a standing ovation in my undies!! ;)

    @Raptor - that song would normally be on my "fuck this shit" list but, for me, it just resonates on this soundtrack. I feel ya though -- it's kind of how I feel about Muse. ;)

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  7. JFC JJ, my brain is fucking FRIED tonight from the attempted SWOONICIDE that occured when I watched the new "You'll Always Be My Bella" Eclipse clip.

    SO sorry, I missed your badass Chop & Change review.

    ***hangs head in shame***

    MC

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  8. @mama cougar - You know I love you. Trust me, I've done a lot worse. Mwah!!

    Now pour a glass of merlot for me and I'll buy ya a shot of bootleg in Forks. :) For reals.

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  9. LOVE LOVE LOVE Chomp & Change. It's got an old-skool feel to it..I had never heard Black Keys before, but I'm sure as hell seeking their other stuff now. I also really like Heavy in Your Arms. Those are my faves. While there are a few songs I like on the NM soundtrack,it was impossible to listen all the way through without wanting to slit my wrists. This one is not depressing! Perfect blend of fun and serious.

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  10. Better than the Twilight soundtrack?! I hope so cause that shit is awesome! :) usually I seethe movie then get the soundtrack, but I may make an exception!

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  11. @JJ, I have to admit, I'm totally intimidated by the way you write about music. :) I could never be a music critic, because I have the most undiscerning palate in the history of the world. Not because I don't know much about it - I've been singing since I could speak, and learned to read music just after I learned to read period - but just because I kind of like EVERYTHING.

    Seriously - I'll listen to almost anything. I have a soft spot for corny-ass pop and showtunes. My ipod is a strange and curious mix of the various Twilight movie soundtracks, a ridiculously diverse selection of mostly collegiate a cappella, a handful of baroque selections (Schutz, Monteverdi), and FUCKING MAMMA MIA. There is almost nothing I won't listen to, with the distinct exception of Mambo Number Five by Lou Bega. I FUCKING HATE THAT SONG. If you played that song to me first thing in the morning, I would straight up murder your ass.

    That said, I actually quite liked the Muse song, and I think Atlas by Fanfarlo is my fave at the moment - your description was so spot on! I love soundtracks for the huge variety of music you get on one album. I am forever grateful to the first Twilight soundtrack for Iron and Wine - Flightless Bird, American Mouth has become my all-time favorite song. It has roughly 7 zillion more plays on my itunes than anything else on there!

    Thanks for the review, JJ!

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  12. Overall, I liked this soundtrack much better than NM but it's a toss up for Twilight.

    Atlas was hands down my favorite on the album. Chop and Change & Heavy In Your Arms kick ass.

    I actually like Sia's My Love (quickly ducking for cover) although I do hear you on it being a bit on the flat side.

    But most importantly, I am SO GLAD to hear you also were not a fan of the Muse song...BLECH...SO not impressed. Meatloaf is a perfect description for that monstrosity.

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  13. JJ, I always look forward to your music critiques. I have been listening to the Eclipse soundtrack every day. Twilight will always be more "first kiss," but this one beats New Moon all to hell.

    Right out of the gate, I loved Heavy in Your Arms (told my son it reminded me of Annie Lennox, too. He's a big fan.) Chop and Change kicks ass! Just try and not nod your head while listening to it. I actually like Jonathan Low. The other one I don't skip over is Atlas.

    Couldn't agree more with you on the Muse track. It's like a Queen wannabe song. Even the movie clip can't save its sorry ass.

    I love that you take the time to post videos and try and educate us musically, too. You know I had to give Anthems For A Seventeen-Year-Old Girl a listen. Just sayin'.

    Lisa

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  14. I am loving the soundtrack, and so far this is my personal favorite of the 3 Twilight sd's. I don't skip any of them, and that's saying something.
    My "Yeah, it's okay's":
    Bombay Bicycle Club track
    EEC's track
    Sia's My Love
    and the Muse song (and I really happen to like Muse)

    My "What's This, it rocks!" tracks:
    Fanfarlo (really growing on me)
    The Line--Howard Shore (I like this and can completely see it as a battle song in the flick for the Wolfpack)
    Vampire Weekend's track. Like JJ, I am a fan of VW. It's no Oxford Comma, or Horchata, but I like it quite a bit.
    The Bravery's track. Now, I admit, I nearly peed myself when I downloaded the soundtrack & saw that 3 of my favorite bands were on it (The Bravery, Band of Horses & VW--plus Beck? Hell Yeah!). But, this song isn't what I was hoping for--but I like it enough.

    My "Fuck Yeah's!":
    Band of Horses. Love them and their CD's are continually playing while I'm at work. Period. 'Nuff said.

    Bat for Lashes & Beck. I love this song--take two oddball artists and mesh them together and you end up with a song to lovely that I hardly believe they are the artists. Love it.

    Cee Lo Green. Love the fucking whistling. Really. I enjoy this song way more than I should.

    Florence + The Machines. This one took a few plays to really attach itself to my brain. Now I can't get it out. I find myself singing it all of the time. Really, I love it.

    Overall, I'm super pleased with the soundtrack. Now to get on w/ the fucking movie so I can hear them where they are placed.

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  15. Oh yeah! And, I forgot the Black Keys song! Someone @ work recently let me listen to their iPod w/ Brothers on it, thinking I'd like them & I did. Chop & Change is great. I can't wrap my brain around it being a Bella song, so maybe Leah! XD

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  16. @Fooorkspimp - Aww, thank you!! I'm pretty sure someone would kick my ass for my "critique" but fuck 'em.

    I like music. I LOVE music. It pretty much surrounds me constantly. Thing is - I don't play music. I mean, I can read it and I can play the piano a little and the flute back in the day but I'm enamored with the concept of a band - of people getting together and creating this shit. So I focus on it because it fascinates me and it makes me feel some way.

    I hate Mamba Number Five too. And if you liked Iron & Wine go purchase Woman King. Some of his best stuff.

    @17ForeverLisa - Right? Total Annie Lennox moment with Florence & the Machine. Though I do think The Dead Weather was reminiscent of PJ Harvey (holy shit Rid of Me and To Bring You My Love were fucking awesome) and I was psyched about that.

    Anthem of 17 year old girl is not a good song for Broken Social Scene - they just put out a recent album. Check it out.

    I just feel like there is so much good music out there that never gets heard. I want to spread to word. :)

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  17. Did anyone like the Lisa Mitchell song? Or was that just a bonus song in Australia? Because I love it!
    Muse - they phoned it in...
    Loved most of the rest of it although found band of horses a little wishy washy and dull compared to the rest.

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  18. Thanks JJ, for the review. I don't know which soundtrack I like best yet.

    I agree with many of your comments, but I do happen to like "Let's Get Lost". I'm no Beck fan but something about this song appeals.

    I agree with your take on Muse also. Which is disappointing because I LOVE MUSE, but with the exception of Supermassive Black Hole from the orig Twi soundtrack, the other songs from Muse selected for NM and Eclipse have been epic fails IMO. There are so many stellar Muse tunes to choose from, too.

    Who the fuck produces these albums and who should I submit my resume to? Jesus, these people need our help BADLY. Hair, make up, casting, wardrobe, and soundtrack. I'm sure there's more. Oh wait, nipple touch up for Rob (unless that's covered by make up, which come to think of it was the crux of the problem so yea, they need a special nipple person for Rob).

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  19. JJ - for someone who doesn't play a lot of music, you obviously know a TON, and I have some huge respect for your ear! You write beautifully about it.

    And I am right there with you on the idea of a band - people coming together to create something that's more than the sum of its parts, as fucking corny as that sounds. I may be a gigantic nerd, but singing with a group of people is, for me, the best high in the world - when everything comes together and it's beautiful and you're a part of it - nothing like it.

    Off to go buy Woman King!

    P.S. I too played the flute!!! In fact, I just rescued it from my parents' house the last time I was home. Ah, memories of band camp...

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  20. *runs and hides* after listening to the tracks during the free listen , i decided i couldnt stand any of the songs and was not going to purchase the soundtrack, even though it would complete my colection,(i really did think it sucked) but my DH for once in his life did something nice for me without me asking, and went and bought me the cd the day it came out!!!! shocked the hell out of me, so now it sits on my desk looking pretty with the others, i may listen to it again AFTER i see the movie, i MIGHT make sense to me then!!!!
    LOVE LOVE LOVE u hoors!!!!!

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  21. My fav song on the soundtrack is Chop and Change - The Black Keys. They've been a fav band of mine since I heard of them. A couple of months ago. In a twifanfic actually LOL. I was excited to hear the song they contributed to the soundtrack and I havnt been dissapointed! I agree with your review of the song. It is sexy and gritty and totally badass. It makes me think of sex, and smokey bars, cowboy hats and long highways. I just love it!

    Another fav of mine is Heavy in Your Arms - Florence and the Machine. I have nothing to add to your review of it. I just love it's sound. You can feel the 'need' in it in every beat. Love it!

    IMO it's my favourite soundtrack of the three. Unlike the vast majority of twifans I'm not hugely loving of the twilight soundtrack. It has some of my favourite songs from the saga (Let Me sign, SBH, Flightless Bird and Never Think) but apart from them I just merely liked it.
    I loved a few songs on the New Moon soundtrack but nothing really stands out apart from White Demon Love Song and Done All Wrong. Eclipse deff my fab so far!

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  22. I have been listening to this soundtrack on a loop since it came out last week and I generally love it more than the previous two. I totally agree with all your comments and I can't get "Heavy in Your Arms" and "Chop and Change" out of my head. They just play constantly. listening to the songs just makes me even more excited for the movie. I am really starting to drive DH crazy!!!!

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  23. Call me cheesy, but I figured that "My Never"-Blue October would make it to the list...afterall, it's COMPLETELY fitting for the Bella-Jacob dynamic. I saw something on YouTube with Stephanie and the lead singer, but I get that she likely doesn't call the shots on what goes on the albums. Anyhow, if you haven't heard this song, it's incredibly drippy and sappy--and I don't care-I love it.
    Otherwise, this album looks to kick some ass!

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  24. I hate spoilers, and ruined myself by listening to the NM soundtrack in advance. I was so disappointed with where all the songs were placed, because it was completely different from where I would have put them. I swore to myself I would leave my Eclipse cd (yes folks, a CD) wrapped in its neat little package until after I'd seen the movie at least three times. That lasted about, ohhh, 5 minutes. I loved it on the first listen-through, and it grows on me more each time. I actually do like the songs by Metric and Sia. The first time I heard Heavy in Our Arms by Flo & the Machine, I got chills. Literally. It blows my mind every time I hear it. I love Chop & Change and it's 60's style wacka-wacka and reminds me of early Jefferson Airplane. The song I could do without is Neutron Star Collision by that band who is going to have to change their name to MEH if they put out another dud like that.

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  25. I heard Florence and the Machine were on this soundtrack so went in search to play it. Before I came across it I read reviews - and everyone was acting like it was the New Dawn of singing/songwriting. By the tenth "we are not worthy" compliment concerning 'Heavy In Your Arms' (and saying it was better than the movie deserves!) I was beginning to feel I wouldn't be bowing low in worship myself. I have her 'Lungs' album which I play all the time - but by time I got to hear HIYA I was, predictably, underwhelmed. And then some. I thought "this is what you're ALL going on about?? Ohh please!" It's very reminiscent of one of her other singles, just slowed down, and she inevitably yells out the whole chorus at the end. Borrrring. I am hoping that it won't be in the movie too much cos otherwise it's seriously gonna wind me up. And she REALLY doesn't wanna be walking down the Lennox path - that woman's seriously overrated as well.

    I also saw Bat For Lashes was on the soundtrack and wanted to hear it. I knew already this would be what I wanted to hear. And, again I was right. The moment her beautiful, ethereal vocals came on, I was captivated. I had to find the mp3 immediately which I did and downloaded - and I play it allll the time. With just one listen I fell in love with 'Let's Get Lost' - as opposed to listening to 'Heavy In Your Arms' three times and still not caring. (I'm in shock you called 'Let's Get Lost' cheesy!!! No way luvvie; it's so stunning, considering how minimal it is).

    As for everything else on the soundtrack - don't know the bands, don't really care either - so I'll trust your judgement there.

    I wish Rob would do another couple somewhere along the way. *SIGH* We need the man to release album (of course including ones we already know of - and he better have the COMPLETE version of 'Let Me Sign' on there or I will not be a happy bunny).

    Have a good week end girls. xoxo

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  26. I love a good soundtrack review!!! Thanks, JJ! Music is kind of my passion (being a drummer for 15 years will do that), so I've listened to this album about 50 times now. ;-)

    My Fuck Yeahs were pretty similar. Florence and the Machines. What a freaking song! Brilliant. Totally brilliant.

    Loved Band of Horses, but I always do. I was glad they delivered.

    The Black Keys are excellent on this soundtrack too! I dig the retro feel of that song. It makes me want to get a leather jacket and a motorcycle or something.

    I can't help but love the Beck and Bat for Lashes song. And... I think that's gotta be the "leg hitch" song. Anyone else??

    As for the What The Fucks...

    Muse totally phoned it in. Suppermassive Whack-a-mole was freaking EPIC. Ever since then their soundtrack contributions have been crap.

    That UNKLE song. I don't even remember the name, but I can't stand it.

    Overall, I have to say this is my favorite soundtrack of the three. I was not a fan of the Twilight soundtrack (Paramore? Linkin Park? WTF?!?!?), but I really liked New Moon. I'm surprised I like this one more.

    I cannot wait to see where everything is placed in the movie! I was SO wrong about all the songs (except Lykki Li) in New Moon!!

    12 days, peeps!

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  27. I am physically affected by Heavy in Your Arms. It makes my chest crush and swell... it is amazing. When I hit that one I just listened over and over and it's taken me a few days to get back to giving a damn about the other songs. A lot of them are slowly growing on me, though, at first listen I thought the soundtrack very monochromatic. Now I am really starting to love a lot of the songs (I merely tolerate the Muse song. I agree the only good one they've had on these soundtracks was on Twilight... all others have disappointed).
    Oh, and Chop and Change... that's Victoria's song... had to look up what that phrase meant and it is perfect for her!

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  28. MyHeartGoesPitterPattinsonJune 18, 2010 at 1:34 AM

    Great Review! We are pretty much on the same wavelength with the soundtrack but you put it more eloquently than I ever could have. I got way excited with both NM and Eclipse b/c of all the Indie artists and then was a bit letdown on first listen b/c of my hyped expectations but then once I'm grounded can pick the stuff I like.

    You MUST check out The Black Keys new album, Brothers. It is fanfuckingtastic.

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  29. Saw someone mentioned the Lisa Mitchell. I know im being a snobby bitch but i CANNOT stand Lisa Mitchell or that song either. but again, like the Flo song, i think im being biased to this song becasue i dont like the artist.

    I'm not all snobby though, i am a BIG Muse fan but Neutron Star Collision is probably the worst thing Ive heard in my life. I like to pretend it never happened. if someone says "hey do you like that new Muse song?" i say "what the fuck are you talking about, Muse haven't released a new song!"

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  30. @Fooorkspimp - hahaha Mamba No. 5! totally agreed, that song is SO annoying!

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  31. I love love loved Florence and the Machine..and I had never even heard of them. It totally reminds me of Annie Lennox and I just can't stop listening to the song! I was unsure about the MUSE song but after listening to it a couple times I am really liking it...not my favorite but I think better than the song from the NM soundtrack

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  32. I'v been totally in love with The Black Keys since about 2006. Can't go wrong with any of there albums. Attack & Release. Solid. and....this band makes me wanna do bad things.... :)

    For the most I really dig this ST. Band Of Horses, The Dead Weather (Jack White, yes please!) Great picks. Then you find new a band like Fanfarlo.
    But I cannot listen to Muse without laughing. Like wtf dudes. Did ya wanna be Queen? Cause if ya do, you're doing it wrong. I so hope this is NOT in the movie! Anywhere. That's not even credit worthy.

    Beening from Canada and all, I'm totally over Metric. The chicks just a bitch, and they kinda think they've saved indie music. Not a chance my dear. I'll take Broken Social Scene or The Arcade Fire any day.

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  33. Um, er, I haven't even listened to it yet. I know, I know. I fail at being the bestest Twifan ever.

    I will add this though...JJ your description of Florence and the Machine and Band of Horses completes me.

    I will start listening tomorrow...I promise. I really liked knowing the soundtrack before New Moon...or is listening to the soundtrack ahead of time beyond my "Just The Tip" stance? Hmmmmm. Looks like my Twymen is gonna get another workout...she sure is a flexible lil' thing.

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  34. I absolutely agree with you on Muse, Vampire Weekend and the fuck yeahs. All in all, I also think this is the best soundtrack of the three.

    However, I didn't see you mention UNKLE, which has by far the best song on that soundtrack, at least when I'm concerned. I also disagree with you on Sia. Sorry. :D

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  35. although I'm yet to hear the soundtrack yet, I LOLed at your description of the Muse track. Their stuff is so ridiculously melodramatic I can never take it seriously - it's like a soundtrack for an earnest high school interpretive dance troupe thrashing about in a musical based on Orwell's 1984. I kinda love them anyway though, but can never take them seriously.

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  37. This cracked me up today! I totally have to agree w/ most of your views on this Soundtrack! I thought it was better than the Twilight and totally fucking KILLED New Moon Soundtracks! (I was disappointed I spent my own $$ on New Moon. Wished I'd have gotten it as a gift from some creepy aunt or something... yeah... I thought it was THAT bad!)
    This soundtrack was my introduction to Florence and the Machine, and I have to repeat Heavy in Your Arms every time it comes on. Awesome!
    Can't wait to see the music throughout the movie!

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  38. Wow, I have to disagree with 2/3 of your critique :) However - you're way more the music fan than I am (hey, Miley has some good songs). Soundtrack favs: Sia, Muse, ECC, BBC, Battles, F+tM. And, love love LOVE anything BoH does, so we do agree on that!

    Chop and Change makes me want to scratch out my eyeballs. Somebody tell the Black Keys that the 70s are over. My version of this song as a bar patron: the middle-aged guy with a receding hairline who is ogling girls half his age and sporting faded tattoos, a rat tail, a tattered band shirt from decades ago, and too-tight jeans that make his gut spill over. As in, maybe you looked good (and were a hit with the ladies) thirty years ago, but those days are long gone, and now you're just annoying everyone around you.

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  39. JJ- Although I don't entirely agree with you on everything, I thoroughly enjoyed your review and your 'WTF's, Mehs, & the Fuck Yeahs' categories. I think you may have a future as a music critic if you wanted.

    Big fan of Florence + the Machine here. Florence Welch is def an artist that invokes strong opinions of either love or hate.. no in b/w really. "Heavy in your Arms" isn't my favorite of hers but I really love it and think the melody and lyrics fit the tone of Eclipse beautifully.

    I loved Sia way back in the day, before she went solo and was just jamming w/ Zero 7. And although I do like "My Love" Its def not up to par with the rest of her work.

    Totally digging The Black Keys right now. That "Chop and Change" song is so goddamn addictive. I've had it in my head for 'bout 3 days now! I've no idea where this song will take place in the movie.. makes me kinda think of Victoria though.

    About that Bat for Lashes song.. um yeh.. its bad. I actually really love Bat for Lashes just not that song. Its suprising too, b/c Beck's done some damn good collabos before.. Charlotte Gainsburg for one. But you're right it sound uber cheesy.

    I'm kinda an Alison Mosshart (of the Kills) fangirl.. so I had high hopes for The Dead Weather. But honestly it kinda let me down.. meh maybe I was holding the stakes too high...

    Your Muse song analysis: My sentiments exactly. Its like nails on a chalk board. Every time I hear it, I think.. please, please someone make it stop! And just so you know, I've never thought of smothering small kittens in ketchup.. but if anything, I imagine this song might have the ability to provoke that urge lol.

    Now can we talk about Howard Shore's “Jacob’s Theme” on the soundtrack? --Wtf?! ..Didn't we already have a 'Jacob's Theme' song in New Moon? ... Where the fuck is Edward's theme?

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  40. I absolutely agree with your review. Spot. ON.
    That Muse song may have permanently damaged my ear drums and even made my insides die a little. It could be used as a form of torture.
    Florence and the Machine rocked my world.

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  41. Yeah, I totally agree with you on some of these. A lot of them have grown on me with each play. And, while I love MUSE (they operatic, completely over the top songs are their thing), I thought this song was a horrible combination of Grease II, Queen (who I love), and Meatloaf. I second your sentiments on that one! Why so fail, MUSE?
    Thanks for your review! Going to listen to Chop & Change for the 80th time now - love it!

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  42. Usually I really like Muse, but yeah, I can't stand the new song. THOROUGHLY disappointed. There was so much hype about whether or not they were even going to be on it, and then there was a rumor that they were going to write a song specifically for the movie. Major letdown guys, major. I had not heard of most of the bands on this soundtrack and I'm pretty impressed with some of them. It's so wrong, and I know it but I kind of love the Battles song and also dig the The Bravery's contribution.

    You are absolutely right about the Sia track, it might not be so wrong except that they placed it right after Florence + the Machine. It's doesn't satisfy the palate.

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  43. I am going to post my first reaction to your review. Since I can't really remember all the names and bands on the CD I want to go and listen to each song you reviewed to see what I really think. BUT I will say that I think I agree with it all for the most part. I do love Muse but not this song. I do love the Sia song but not next to Flo and the Machine and more after someone said it should be sung in Elvish - it took on a whole new feeling to me after I read that. Your F Yeahs are all right on for me. Heavy and Chop & Change are on my tape of the soundtrack for my car... three times each!!

    I really like this CD and I hope I will love it after I see the movie and can place the scenes with the songs. I really like the New Moon soundtrack but I can be emo, so it fits with me. Twilight I think is my favorite and one of the reasons for me is that it I like the order of the songs... if that makes any sense. I feel like it stands on its own without the movie - I don't need the scenes to like the CD. Whereas I liked New Moon, the scenes made it better and I assume Eclipse will be the same to me. Also I might say Twilight's music seems more accessible to me whereas the other 2 are harder to find songs and heavier all around.

    Wow I didn't think I had that much to say. Can't wait to listen to each song with your review now. Wonder if my mind will change :)

    I love your music reviews JJ - you are excellent at it. Thank you!

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  44. @JJ- what do you do in RL? If the answer is not "write music critques" I wanna know, why the F not??

    I generally like Muse but the song on the soundtrack made my ears bleed the first couple of times I forced myself to listen. Somewhere around the hundredth time listening it started to grow on me a little-you know kind of the way a wart does and sometimes you just learn to live with it.

    I agree with all of JJ's Fuck Yeahs. Overall I LOVE this soundtrack. Heavy....wow.... and a couple of the songs may not be my favorite on their own, but can completely see them in this movie. I wonder if the songs will correspond to the scenes i am picturing for them??

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  45. Thank you all for your awesome and wonderful comments!

    Trust me, I wish I could write music reviews for a living but, alas, I do not. I'm beyond flattered at all your compliements.

    Now I'm off to listen to Chop and Change for the gazillionth time...

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  46. chop and change makes me think of Leah. damn that song is addicting

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  47. Am I the only one who loves "What Part of Forever" by Cee Lo Green? So catchy!

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  48. I only got the soundtrack today and haven't had the chance to listen to it yet, but now I'm itching to play it.

    I'm one of those huge Muse fans you referred to, but I'm not one of the ones who thinks Matt Bellamy is the second coming (in fact I think he takes himself a little too seriously). I like the new song ok, but it's soooo not their best song. It might even be their worst. There are so many great ones to choose from and they're obviously capable of so much better, so seriously WTF Muse?!

    I LOVE Florence + the Machine, but I don't see the Annie Lennox comparison some of you do. Her voice is about the same pitch, but other than that I think she's very different.

    Anyhoo, now I'm off to listen to the rest of it and see if I have similar opinions. Later hoors!

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  49. I have to start this post off with the disclaimer that I have had a few too many glasses of Chardonnay tonight and cannot claim full responsibility for spelling...

    Thank you for the soundtrack critique JJ! I must agree that this is the best, getting better, soundtrack thus far for the series as well. New Moon was a step up from the bubble gum that encompased the first installment (it was decent for the intended market) and Eclipse has panned out more big hitters than I expected. *Bat For Lashes is...a wet dream. She is a fantastic indie treat slathered with Beck, although not her best tune. The Vampire Weekend dity, although I disliked immensely at first, has grown on me since the release.

    As a normal fan of MUSE and Matt Bellamy's vocals *thud*- this song blows. Big time. They should have used an oldie and saved fans the heartache. I cannot listen to this one.

    UNKLE rocked my world. Period. On repeat. I was a minor fan of his prior but I LOVE this song and I'm excited to see where in the scheme of things it will be placed-assuming the wolf sequences.

    Florence & The Machine, kicked more butt than usual. The song, I agree, is in your face, filled with the usual powerful vocals and heavy lyrics which pertain well to the chracters. Amazing.

    I cannot imagine who they will pull together next. Weeee!!!

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  50. @Luxie- I agree, where the hell is Edwards theme??!! I like to think his theme might be Florence & The Machine.

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  51. Give Battles another chance outside of the soundtrack (I don't own the version with the Battle's song on it.) But I've had the chance to seem them a few time ... and the drummer is amazing ... the whole mirrored album was good.

    But I'd suggest starting with this song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpGp-22t0lU

    And not that pitchfork is the end all and be all - but 9.1. http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/10225-mirrored/

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  52. @JustErin - What do you mean Pitchfork is the end all and be all?!?!?!

    Just kidding!!

    But I will check out those links - thank you.

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  53. JJ! I have been waiting for your music critique ever since I bought the soundtrack last Tuesday. I always wanna know what you think so I'll know what songs to like ;) I was so happy to see that you too think Florence and The Machine, The Black Keys, and The Dead Weather kick ASS! Lovelovelove those songs! All of the other songs would be in my "Meh" category. Only because 1) I'm not a good music critique. I pretty much anything. And 2) I haven't stopped listening to my favs long enough to actually listen to any of the other songs! Oh well.

    I do have to say that the first time I heard Muse's song, I was "What the fuck"ing it. But it's grown on me. I do see it as really over-the-top and cheesy, but that's what I like about it. Oh, and it reminds me of something that would be on 'Glee'...Who can go wrong there ;)

    Thank you for your critique! I love hearing your thoughts on music! And keep the bands coming-I've found so many new ones that are awesome, and it's all because of you!

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  54. So, here's a theory: Maybe Neutron Star Collision was Matt and the boys thumbing their noses at the whole Twilight phenom? I mean, Matt is a musical prodigy who I think could write symphonies in his sleep, and if you've ever been to a Muse concert, you know they can and do totally rock it--better live than in studio, IMO.
    AND, most people who love Muse hate, Hate, HATE Twilight and any Twilighty connection to this band that existed and had worldwide fans long before Steph started mentioning them in her acknowledgements. My guess is that David Slade, who has directed videos for Muse and has known these guys for years, asked them to create something over the top for Eclipse, and Matt obliged. Just a theory...I still love Muse and can appreciate the over-the-top theatrics of NSC that, as others have pointed out, are not unlike a certain over-the-top human/vampire relationship we all know and love. Even the rhymes (I was searching, you were on a mission, and our hearts combined like a neutron star collision????) are cheesey--I think deliberately so.

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  55. Is there any way the Muse song can still be chucked out of the soundtrack? When I think most Muse fans vomit on everything Twilight and complain about their favorite band being associated with the saga...what about us, having have to put up with this OTP melodramatic ugly piece! I hope at least it's not too conspicuous in the movie.
    Can't see the hype over Florence & the Machine. I love her but I'm not too convinced by this one. But then, it's just me.

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  56. I'm guessing the song can't be chucked, since the soundtrack is already out.
    But that's a good question--where will it be used in the movie? Thoughts? I'm no good at guessing those things.
    BTW, I am not a Muse fan who hates Twilight, or vice-versa. Just wanted to clarify that. I was just trying to rationalize the cheese factor. :-) It is perplexing, but Matt has a quirky sense of humor, from what I gather.

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  57. JJ- Although I don't entirely agree with you on everything, I thoroughly enjoyed your review and your 'WTF's, Mehs, & the Fuck Yeahs' categories. I think you may have a future as a music critic if you wanted.

    Big fan of Florence + the Machine here. Florence Welch is def an artist that invokes strong opinions of either love or hate.. no in b/w really. "Heavy in your Arms" isn't my favorite of hers but I really love it and think the melody and lyrics fit the tone of Eclipse beautifully.

    I loved Sia way back in the day, before she went solo and was just jamming w/ Zero 7. And although I do like "My Love" Its def not up to par with the rest of her work.

    Totally digging The Black Keys right now. That "Chop and Change" song is so goddamn addictive. I've had it in my head for 'bout 3 days now! I've no idea where this song will take place in the movie.. makes me kinda think of Victoria though.

    About that Bat for Lashes song.. um yeh.. its bad. I actually really love Bat for Lashes just not that song. Its suprising too, b/c Beck's done some damn good collabos before.. Charlotte Gainsburg for one. But you're right it sound uber cheesy.

    I'm kinda an Alison Mosshart (of the Kills) fangirl.. so I had high hopes for The Dead Weather. But honestly it kinda let me down.. meh maybe I was holding the stakes too high...

    Your Muse song analysis: My sentiments exactly. Its like nails on a chalk board. Every time I hear it, I think.. please, please someone make it stop! And just so you know, I've never thought of smothering small kittens in ketchup.. but if anything, I imagine this song might have the ability to provoke that urge lol.

    Now can we talk about Howard Shore's “Jacob’s Theme” on the soundtrack? --Wtf?! ..Didn't we already have a 'Jacob's Theme' song in New Moon? ... Where the fuck is Edward's theme?

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  58. I am going to post my first reaction to your review. Since I can't really remember all the names and bands on the CD I want to go and listen to each song you reviewed to see what I really think. BUT I will say that I think I agree with it all for the most part. I do love Muse but not this song. I do love the Sia song but not next to Flo and the Machine and more after someone said it should be sung in Elvish - it took on a whole new feeling to me after I read that. Your F Yeahs are all right on for me. Heavy and Chop & Change are on my tape of the soundtrack for my car... three times each!!

    I really like this CD and I hope I will love it after I see the movie and can place the scenes with the songs. I really like the New Moon soundtrack but I can be emo, so it fits with me. Twilight I think is my favorite and one of the reasons for me is that it I like the order of the songs... if that makes any sense. I feel like it stands on its own without the movie - I don't need the scenes to like the CD. Whereas I liked New Moon, the scenes made it better and I assume Eclipse will be the same to me. Also I might say Twilight's music seems more accessible to me whereas the other 2 are harder to find songs and heavier all around.

    Wow I didn't think I had that much to say. Can't wait to listen to each song with your review now. Wonder if my mind will change :)

    I love your music reviews JJ - you are excellent at it. Thank you!

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  59. Wow, I have to disagree with 2/3 of your critique :) However - you're way more the music fan than I am (hey, Miley has some good songs). Soundtrack favs: Sia, Muse, ECC, BBC, Battles, F+tM. And, love love LOVE anything BoH does, so we do agree on that!

    Chop and Change makes me want to scratch out my eyeballs. Somebody tell the Black Keys that the 70s are over. My version of this song as a bar patron: the middle-aged guy with a receding hairline who is ogling girls half his age and sporting faded tattoos, a rat tail, a tattered band shirt from decades ago, and too-tight jeans that make his gut spill over. As in, maybe you looked good (and were a hit with the ladies) thirty years ago, but those days are long gone, and now you're just annoying everyone around you.

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  60. I heard Florence and the Machine were on this soundtrack so went in search to play it. Before I came across it I read reviews - and everyone was acting like it was the New Dawn of singing/songwriting. By the tenth "we are not worthy" compliment concerning 'Heavy In Your Arms' (and saying it was better than the movie deserves!) I was beginning to feel I wouldn't be bowing low in worship myself. I have her 'Lungs' album which I play all the time - but by time I got to hear HIYA I was, predictably, underwhelmed. And then some. I thought "this is what you're ALL going on about?? Ohh please!" It's very reminiscent of one of her other singles, just slowed down, and she inevitably yells out the whole chorus at the end. Borrrring. I am hoping that it won't be in the movie too much cos otherwise it's seriously gonna wind me up. And she REALLY doesn't wanna be walking down the Lennox path - that woman's seriously overrated as well.

    I also saw Bat For Lashes was on the soundtrack and wanted to hear it. I knew already this would be what I wanted to hear. And, again I was right. The moment her beautiful, ethereal vocals came on, I was captivated. I had to find the mp3 immediately which I did and downloaded - and I play it allll the time. With just one listen I fell in love with 'Let's Get Lost' - as opposed to listening to 'Heavy In Your Arms' three times and still not caring. (I'm in shock you called 'Let's Get Lost' cheesy!!! No way luvvie; it's so stunning, considering how minimal it is).

    As for everything else on the soundtrack - don't know the bands, don't really care either - so I'll trust your judgement there.

    I wish Rob would do another couple somewhere along the way. *SIGH* We need the man to release album (of course including ones we already know of - and he better have the COMPLETE version of 'Let Me Sign' on there or I will not be a happy bunny).

    Have a good week end girls. xoxo

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  61. Call me cheesy, but I figured that "My Never"-Blue October would make it to the list...afterall, it's COMPLETELY fitting for the Bella-Jacob dynamic. I saw something on YouTube with Stephanie and the lead singer, but I get that she likely doesn't call the shots on what goes on the albums. Anyhow, if you haven't heard this song, it's incredibly drippy and sappy--and I don't care-I love it.
    Otherwise, this album looks to kick some ass!

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  62. I love a good soundtrack review!!! Thanks, JJ! Music is kind of my passion (being a drummer for 15 years will do that), so I've listened to this album about 50 times now. ;-)

    My Fuck Yeahs were pretty similar. Florence and the Machines. What a freaking song! Brilliant. Totally brilliant.

    Loved Band of Horses, but I always do. I was glad they delivered.

    The Black Keys are excellent on this soundtrack too! I dig the retro feel of that song. It makes me want to get a leather jacket and a motorcycle or something.

    I can't help but love the Beck and Bat for Lashes song. And... I think that's gotta be the "leg hitch" song. Anyone else??

    As for the What The Fucks...

    Muse totally phoned it in. Suppermassive Whack-a-mole was freaking EPIC. Ever since then their soundtrack contributions have been crap.

    That UNKLE song. I don't even remember the name, but I can't stand it.

    Overall, I have to say this is my favorite soundtrack of the three. I was not a fan of the Twilight soundtrack (Paramore? Linkin Park? WTF?!?!?), but I really liked New Moon. I'm surprised I like this one more.

    I cannot wait to see where everything is placed in the movie! I was SO wrong about all the songs (except Lykki Li) in New Moon!!

    12 days, peeps!

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