Garden State (CD, Aug-2004, Epic (USA))

I am so disenfranchised right now.

“You gotta hear these songs; they will change your life. I promise you.” And with those words, the instant commercial for the Garden State Soundtrack was born. And if moody, artsy, and somber appeal to your musical taste, it may just be a true statement. Fortunately for me, that is exactly how I like my music.

Actually, the Garden State Soundtrack was one of the nice little surprises musically from 2004. It sold very well and was deemed “cool” among the college alt rock community and the late 20’s crowd. Largely due to the rise in popularity of “Coldplay,” the more introspective and trendy “smart rock” scene has been ripe for an anthem and this soundtrack may very well fit the bill.

Thirteen tracks make up the CD and for the most part, you have probably never heard of most of the artists involved. Normally, that would be a turn off, but even after your first listen, you’ll find there is a lot of buried treasure here. While “The Shins” get the most mention in the movie, their two tracks (“Caring is Creepy” & “New Slang”) are hardly the best on the album.

That is especially true when you hear Zero 7’s “In The Waiting Line,” Bonnie Somerville’s “Winding Road,” and Thievery Corporation’s “Lebanese Blonde.” Each three of these songs range from the funky to the fresh to the just plain good. Simon and Garfunkel even make an appearance with “The Only Living Boy In New York,” which fits very nicely with these newer bands. It feels not only like an homage to the type of folk music that grew into what we have today – but also shows you just how ahead of their time S&G really were.

The album saves its very best for two tracks, nicely placed in both the middle and the end, to give you enough anticipation to listen to everything else. The Cary Brother’s “Blue Eyes” is as pretty and passionate a love song (or is it more lust?) as you can find. The greatest song on the album is the same one used in the climax of the film. Frou Frou’s “Let Go” is the kind of song you can just get lost in as the mix of the lead singer’s angelic voice and the soothing electronic pulses of the beat blend to near perfect levels. If you’re like me, you’ll find it ends too soon and you punch it back to hear it again.

Not all the songs are winners, however. Some can just be downright boring. Colin Hay’s, “I Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You,” is slow and overlong. And while Iron and Wine’s “Such Great Heights” found its way into an M&M’s commercial, it just doesn’t work for me. The most ironic misstep of the album is the inclusion of Coldplay’s “Don’t Panic” to kick things off. Unfortunately, the mega band just doesn’t seem to fit in with the rest of these smaller, more reclusive bands.

Overall, the CD is very much worth your time. If you really enjoy hanging out in a smoky bar where the band is more about the music than the flash and bang – you’re going to like this album. And who knows, it may just change your life.

I bought this after listening to LOTS AND LOTS of soundtracks for a good one with all good songs. It has Nick Drake on it, which is hot and hard to find. The movie was so-so ---- I <3 Zack Braff and everything, but the movie. Even with hot Katie Holmes.... It was ok. I did LOVE LOVE LOVE the music though...... and now I love someone new after 4+ years with another guy I just broke up with.

Enjoy. it's a kickass soundtrack.

The Garden State sound track CD sounds great (no scratches). I was interested in the CD after seeing the movie.

OMG I absolutely love this Soundtrack. I was on ebay and was thinking what CD I would really really love to hear and this one came into mind. I use to have this CD but it got lost in between moving here and there. I was soooo happy to find it for a great price!! My ultimate favorite song on this soundtrack is "Blue eyes"!!! Love It!!

Who knew that Zach Braff was a soundtrack genius?

This CD ACTUALLY changed my life. I love this CD. I have never EVER been so in love with a tracklist, and been able to listen to something over and over without getting sick, until I met this CD.

Beautifully arranged.
Great songs.
Anyone will love this CD. You can't go wrong.