More than Could Be Expected

In Judd Apatow’s latest movie This is 40, the spinoff of 2007’s hit, Knocked Up we see life and marriage as it moves forward into a new chapter. As grand as the ensemble in the movie is, the 17 tracks that compile the This is 40 soundtrack are a round out of legends and indie’s brightest stars. The soundtrack features tracks from Yoko Ono, Norah Jones, Graham Parker with Punch Brothers, Paul Simon, Lindsay Buckingham and The Avett Brothers, just to name a few.

Wilco is also featured on the album performing a live version of “I Got You (At The End Of The Century)” pumping up the banjo under layers of soft harmonies. Ryan Adams makes a cameo both in the film and with his inclusion of “Shine Through The Dark” on the album. Other powerful tracks on the album include Yoko Ono’s lead track “ I’m Your Angel,” a whimsical and sprightly melody, and Paul McCartney delivers a bonus track from 1980s Wings, “Venus and Mars” and “Lunch Box Odd Song.”

Both Fiona Apple and Norah Jones are highlights on the album as well, each performing a new song. Fiona Apple’s sultry voice interwoven into an upbeat song is refreshing to hear in “Dull Tool,” while Norah Jones continues to please with “Always Judging,” a sweet and serene song almost seemingly instrumental if it weren’t for tiny breaks and bursts of Jones’s innocent voice peeking throughout the song.

Apatow has a way of creating winning combinations, on screen and off. Each song and artist has been masterfully placed on an album that is so much more than could be expected.