Magnolia [Original Soundtrack] by Aimee Mann/Original Soundtrack

From the moment I put this CD in my player, I knew it wouldn't be coming out for a long time. This is an amazing album from an amazing movie... what more do I need? Aimee Mann is an amazingly talented artist, and I totally understand why director Paul Thomas Anderson would write an entire film based on her music... it's so expressive and evocative.

One -- unique cover of the rock classic. Very clean and simple.

Momentum -- my favorite track on this CD. Bouncier and more upbeat-sounding than I expected, fun to sing along to. Good example of Ms. Mann's wide range of styles and skills.

Build That Wall -- Interesting song with a vaguely 70s-esque sound.

Deathly -- "Now that I've met you, would you object to never seeing each other again?" P.T. Anderson used this line in his film, and I understand why... it's a great line. As Anderson points out in the liner notes, part of Ms. Mann's genius is her ability to write lyrics that sound like something you've heard or said before, only better. Another totally unique, beautiful song.

Driving Sideways -- Slowly... bouncy. I don't know how else to describe this song, except that it bounces, at a leisurely pace. My second-favorite track. Great lyrics, great melody, wonderful to sing along with. Sounds slightly Sarah McLachlan-ish in places, but don't hold that against it.

You Do -- Not sure what I think about this song. It seems like I've heard it before, several years ago, and I still can't decide what to think of it.

Nothing is Good Enough -- beautiful instrumental piece.

Wise Up -- a very poignant song, used to amazing effect in the film. Fans of the film will indelibly associate this with... well, you know the scene... those who haven't seen the film will appreciate this as a stand-alone work of art.

Save Me -- this sublime little piece of artistry was ROBBED of its rightful Oscar by the Disney Mafia [ever notice how a Disney song wins Best Song every d***ed year?]. I downloaded this song and have been listening to it constantly since this past spring... it doesn't get old at all.

Goodbye Stranger -- the first of two Supertramp songs on this album. Oddly, it doesn't seem too out of place.

Logical Song -- I don't know what to think of this song. Never was a big Supertramp fan.

Dreams -- Okay, the only reason this song is in here is because it was playing in Quiz Kid Donnie Smith's car for just about the entire movie. Ugh.

Magnolia -- a sample of Jon Brion's beautiful score. Haunting and beautiful.

Producer/composer Jon Brion [who also produced Fiona Apple's similarly brilliant WHEN THE PAWN...] is a genius, and paired with the genius of Aimee Mann, he has produced one of the best soundtrack CDs it has been my privilege to own. Whether you've seen the movie or not, buy this CD.