One Tree Hill
Anchored by a muscular, yet funky live version of Gavin DeGraw's theme song "I Don't Want to Be," this collection of music from -- and, of course, "inspired by" -- the hit WB series walks the fine line between stock-in-trade teen musical angst and decidedly more AC-friendly fare with its dignity intact. Its emotionally charged mix-tape sensibility comes courtesy of series creator/producer Mark Schwan and his music supervisors, a team who showcase the earnest contributions of show star/troubadour Tyler Hilton (including a winning duet with co-star Bethany Joy Lenz coveringRyan Adam's "When the Stars Go Blue") amidst music that's often moodier (Travis' fine "Re-Offender," the languorous "Lie in the Sound" by Trespassers William) and more aggressive ("Shoot Your Gun" by UK trio 22-20s). Still, it's an album whose heart is tender, as ably demonstrated by The Wreckers' (a collaboration between Michelle Branch and Midwest singer-songwriter Jessica Harp) bright harmonies on "The Good Kind" and an inviting acoustic version of Sheryl Crow's Grammy-nominated "First Cut is the Deepest."--Jerry McCulley