The Punisher
The pop song-score is often accused of being little more than ancillary merchandising for many a film and the supporting evidence is often hard to deny. But this well-chosen collection of modern rock and metal for director Jonathan Hensleigh's adaptation of the vengeance-obsessed Marvel Comics anti-hero is a gratifying exception; apt sonic seasoning for the film's bleak, contemporary edge. The thrash ofHatebreed,Chevelle, and the newDrowning Poollineup and tracks by more established acts likePuddle of Mudd,Nickelback, andQueens of the Stone Age(who turn in a smart, chunky cover ofRomeo Void's Rock-of-the-80's staple, "Never Say Never") alone would make it a welcome rock-metal sampler. But its 19 tracks also encompass an intriguing range of lesser known bands and one-off collaborations (Seetherand Amy Lee,Jerry Cantrelland Damageplan, Ben Moody/Jason Miller/Jason "Gong" Jones); all bristling with a dark, moody energy that perfectly echos the film's dour, relentlessly violent tone.-- Jerry McCulley