Notting Hill Soundtrack CD

Original score composed by Trevor Jones.
The soundtrack to the Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant romantic comedy Notting Hill is every bit as consciously classy as the film it supports. If it isn't as ingratiating, that's because it's significantly harder to offer a twist on a formula soundtrack album than on a formula movie. With a film, little details, supporting characters, and subtle, interesting visuals give the movie identity within a formula. Unfortunately, a soundtrack remains a collection of oldies, newer songs, and score excerpts, no matter how much you shake it up, and that's the case here. Much of this is quite enjoyable -- it's hard to go wrong with such pop classics as Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine," Al Green's "How Can You Mend a Broken Heart," and Spencer Davis Group's "Gimme Some Lovin'" providing the foundation. If the newer songs aren't quite up to par -- Elvis Costello's "She" is nearly as appealingly lush as his Bacharach collaboration, but his quavering vibrato undercuts it somewhat, and sadly, Boyzone's "No Matter What" is not a Badfinger cover -- they're all still pretty good, especially 98 Degrees' "I Do (Cherish You)" and Shania Twain's "You've Got a Way," which is presented in a nice remix. If the score excerpts don't add much, it's OK, because that's usually the case with these kinds of soundtracks. What counts is the mix of oldies and new songs, and this time around, it's pretty enjoyable, even if it doesn't have the charming character of the film itself. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine
At first glance, a soundtrack album that includes Shania Twain, Al Green, Elvis Costello, and the Spencer Davis Group (guess what song), seems like a puzzler in terms of linearity. On closer inspection it becomes apparent that the connecting thread between this disparate collection of artists is the romance that's at the core of the film. The ups and downs of Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts's relationship is effectively reflected in these songs. The smooth pop/R&B of Boyzone and 98 Degrees represents the first glorious rush of love. A touch of longing is introduced with Elvis's take on Charles Aznavour's "She" and Bill Withers's '70s classic "Ain't No Sunshine." The Spencer Davis Group's "Gimme Some Lovin'" (did these guys ever record anything else?) perfectly captures the undeniable force of physical desire. Things are wrapped up nicely with a pair of orchestral pieces composed by Trevor Jones.

Hit Singles From:Shania Twain & Boyzone