House, M.D.:
Original Television Soundtrack

(Nettwerk)

First Appeared in The Music Box, February 2008, Volume 15, #2

Written by Melissa Stroh

Mon February 18, 2008, 09:00 AM CST

Even though the cast may seem alien these days, the music of Fox’s hit TV show House, M.D. is unmistakable. Not surprisingly, its first compilation soundtrack is filled with dramatic narrative and quirky tunes, which any fan of the program surely can appreciate and place.

Massive Attack’s Teardrop — House, M.D.’s distinctive theme song — does a nice job of drawing listeners into the soundtrack album. At just the right moment, after the sound of a heartbeat builds to a crescendo, the group’s lead vocalist breaks the silence with her fragile voice. Although the lyrics themselves have little to do with the drama of the television program, the music will be linked forever to the image of Hugh Laurie walking down a hospital corridor, cane in hand.

House, M.D.’s soundtrack continues with a slew of distinguishing tracks that are rich with imagery and storytelling. By connecting the viewers with the characters through music, these tunes have helped immensely to turn House, M.D. into a successful drama. Many of the songs feature the warm sound of an acoustic guitar, thus providing the sort of connection that also allows the material to work well outside the scope of the program. Considering the wealth of memorable stories that are told within the tunes’ lyrics, listeners cannot resist the urge to become invested in following them to their conclusions. For instance, Michael Penn’s Walter Reed tells a compelling tale about removing onself from an old situation and moving on. Penn sings, "Make no mistake I’m mad/’Cause every good thing I’ve had/Abandoned me."

While acoustic guitars are in abundance throughout the House, M.D. soundtrack, other components also are used to evoke a dramatic air. Throughout the album, for example, odd sounds are sprinkled through the arrangements. In addition, artists use strings as well as background and guest vocalists to create emotional tension in their work.

As most fans of House, M.D. know, the series isn’t entirely about drama; it contains plenty of humor as well. This mixture shines through the soundtrack. The lighter side of the program is reflected by Joe Cocker’s classic rendition of Feelin’ Alright and Band From TV’s cover of the Rolling Stones’ You Can’t Always Get What You Want. Overall, the material that has supported the storylines on House, M.D. has been chosen well, and consequently, this endeavor provides a good representation of the program itself.

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Ratings

1 Star: Pitiful
2 Stars: Listenable
3 Stars: Respectable
4 Stars: Excellent
5 Stars: Can't Live Without It!!

Copyright © 2008 The Music Box