[CD, 2007]

When filmmaker Devon Reed set out to make The Bigtop, it is unlikely he expected the film’s soundtrack to be packed with interpretation of his songs by some of today’s greatest artists.  Featuring such notable musicians as Doug Martsch (Built To Spill), Matthew Sweet, The Clientele, and Tullycraft, Reed matched each song to an artist.

But as such concepts go, some artists refuse, some lack time, and some just don’t do such things.  That he was able to pull together such a great cast is quite admirable.  Furthermore, it should be noted that his skill in matching song to artist is impeccable: “Your Song” by The Clientele is a refreshing tune that compliments not only the bands sound, by also their songwriting style.  This is a common trait throughout the album.

Something must be said of the track list, which flows from one tune to the next without any duds or misplacements.  Fitting Doug Martsch’s lovely “Cracked And Crazed” between Eleventh Dream Day’s “Planning My Escape” (a standout for its compilation of vocalists) and The Sprites concludes the album in pretty much the best way possible.  Still, the album begins strong as well…

The opening track, “Magic”, by Lisa Germano is a soft folk-like tune with elements of pop, which is followed by The Clientele and a lovely “I Only Want The Sky” by Michael Leviton.  What may be most rewarding is Reed’s ability as a songwriter: the filmmaker is neither too wordy nor too bland and minimal.  Even songs packed with lyrics, such as Damien Jurado’s “Ashes”, come off simply as plush.

Contrary to any premonitions to how a carnival-esque movie soundtrack would sound, each song is packed with a youthful sort of pop that is anything but circus-like.  The film, however, centers on a runaway, played by Reed, who finds love while traveling with a circus.  Then again, Howe Gelb’s take on “Falling In Love” has slight elements of the carnival, as does the Tullycraft song.

With exception to The Clientele, each song comes off with a singer/songwriter like sound, even when full bands are used as in “I Just Can’t Keep Up” by The Owls. Furthermore, with the variety of names on the ticket, listeners will likely discover new artists to keep an eye on: I, for one, plan to keep an eye out for Communique and The Sprites, while I also have a renewed appreciation for Howe Gelb, Damien Jurado and Eleventh Dream Day.

While The Clientele’s inclusion on the album fulfills a special role for their unique sound, it is Tullycraft performing “The Girl Who’s Above Us” that rounds out Songs From The Bigtop, taking the typically twee punk band in a completely new direction.  Overall, Songs From The Bigtop is a fantastic compilation of great artists performing exclusive tunes. 

RELATED LINKS

Devon Reed: Homepage

The Bigtop on IMDB

TRACK LIST