Review: Karen O And The Kids – Where the Wild Things Are Soundtrack
Imagination is allowed to soar as the beloved children’s book Where the Wild Things Are is adapted into a full length feature film. And with this adventurous tale comes a soundtrack that is both fun and endearing. From watching the movie trailers and hearing all the buzz surrounding it, both adults and kids are looking forward to this feel-good movie. The soundtrack is something that can be enjoyed by all, even if you have no interest in the movie. The most surprising element to the soundtrack is that it was written and produced by Karen O, lead singer of the electrifying indie punk band Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Karen O is neither timid nor tame, and it was amazing to hear a completely different side of this rock beauty. The music is both playful and enchanting, taking us on a journey in the mind of small boy seeking to escape reality.
“All is Love” leaves us with a warm fuzzy feeling as you sing along and dance to this uplifting medley of pure happiness. The untrained choir of children featured on several songs makes the music even more touching. Thankfully the music isn’t sweet enough to make you want to vomit rainbows. There is a fine line between cute and overkill and Karen knows how to stay on the right side of the line. “Capsize” brings back faint memories of a Yeah Yeah Yeahs album with its punk-infused clap-along beat and buzzing guitars.
The most important element of any soundtrack is being able to capture the story through music and being able to express the emotions of the characters. Karen O is able to take me on this whimsical journey without having seen the movie. “Rumpus” evokes the innocence of child letting his boisterous nature take charge and doing what every child loves best, acting silly with friends. “Animal” is wild and scary as the intensity builds along with the dissonance. After such an imaginative adventure, it is time for that sleepy ride back home. “Food is Still Hot” gently lulls us back into reality and a world of normalcy. The Wild Things may be gone, but at least dinner is still waiting for our young hero . . . And mom even kept it warm.
