The Next Best Thing: Music From The Motion Picture
The obvious centerpiece to this soundtrack isMadonna's hyperkinetic version ofDon McLean's 1971 postmortem rock anthem "American Pie."  Capturing the bittersweet intentions of the original, Madonna and producerWilliam Orbitcreate a forlorn dreamscape of dance beats and floating electronica effects that serve to update the sentimental war horse. The entire soundtrack has a futuristic sheen.  Thick washes of reverb, ethereal keyboards, and swooping tones create the illusion of space travel throughout.  Previously released tunes deserving of headline status includeMoby's unusually soulful "Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad," which cleverly updates a classic '60s soul groove to modern effect. A highlight from Beth Orton'sCentral Reservation, "Stars All Seem to Weep," fits like a missing piece of the puzzle.  Previously unreleased tracks fromChristina Aguilera, Maverick recording artistsOlive(who cover10cc's "I'm Not in Love"), and Madonna's "Time Stood Still," another fruitful collaboration with William Orbit, round things out.--Rob O'Connor