Now Hear This: The Soundtrack to the Biggest Movie of the Year

Even if you haven’t seen it, you know that The Hunger Games is amazing. It’s the only flick anyone has been talking about for weeks! Today, however, I think we should talk about the soundtrack to this massive film.

Produced by Oscar-winner T-Bone Burnett, The Hunger Games: Songs From District 12 And Beyond, features 17 brand-new, exclusive tracks from an eclectic list of artists. From The Arcade Fire and Neko Case, to Taylor Swift and Kid Cudi, the album is just as moody as the film. While the compilation leans to a gloomy folk sound overall, there are hints of the rebellious and hopeful aspects of The Hunger Games.

Arcade Fire open the soundtrack, setting the dark, fearful mood with the anthemic “Abraham’s Daughter.” Glen Hansard, of The Swell Season, contribute the urgent, hard-rocking “Take the Heartland.” This track reminds me of pivotal moments, like the confrontations with the Career Tributes. While lyrically Neko Case’s “Nothing to Remember” explores themes of loneliness and confusion, sonically it feels optimistic and hopeful.

The album’s closer, “Just A Game” by Birdy finishes the album with a haunting, emotional lamentation. It actually reminds me a lot of the final track on The Crow Soundtrack – Jane Siberry’s “It’s Can’t Rain All The Time.” A reference for the 25-34’s in the crowd!

Definitely recommend giving The Hunger Games: Songs From District 12 And Beyond a whirl. I think there’s something on it for everyone. LISTEN HERE.