Starring John Travolta, Andie McDowell, Bob Hoskins and William
Hurt, the movie
Michael told the story of a rather quirky and unusual angel;
he was a bit gross, he smoked, and he was fat, but he cared. And
thus the theme of the story — caring about others. Many might have
found the movie unseemly and irreverent, but I appreciated the
light-hearted, think-outside-the-box levity.
The soundtrack issued for this movie is equally chock full of
fun and entertaining songs, and runs the gamut of genres, including
country, blues, rock and gospel. It opens with Don Henley’s
“Through Your Hands,” which has both a country flavor and the
familiar Henley style. The song describes healing that takes place
through the hands of Michael. I wouldn’t normally picture Henley
singing something like this, but he carries out his responsibility
to the fullest, and the strong tone of the song sets the pace for
the entire soundtrack.
“Chain of Fools” should be familiar to many, especially the old
Aretha Franklin version used here. It is, of course, my favorite of
the album. There’s very little to say about Aretha that hasn’t
already been said; the song simply stands on its own feet.
Bonnie Raitt offers “Feels Like Home,” a melancholy song about
being with someone who reminds you of home. Another of my choice
picks, this wonderful piece provides Raitt with an opportunity to
soften her vocal approach. The notes and vocals present a
reflective nature for the tune.
An old Rolling Stones number — “The Spider and the Fly” — is
performed by Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Shepherd does an excellent job
on his version; Mick and Keith could do no better. This bluesy-rock
melody is highlighted by the mouth harp.
Old-time soul man Al Green gives us “Love God (and everybody
else).” It adds a diversion with its distinctively gospel-driven
quality and gives the soundtrack a more spiritual character. It’s
pretty hard to go wrong with Al Green, and he doesn’t disappoint on
this song.
The soundtrack
Michael provides the background for a sweet love story. As
with most love story soundtrack, it is riddled with sentimentality.
It brings together couples; a man and his dog, and a man and a
woman. If you saw the movie then I am sure you’ll enjoy this music;
it completes the
Michael experience.
