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What’s the Story?

Reviewed by Kathi Kamen Goldmark

Although diehard RENT fans probably already own the two-disc Original Broadway Cast Recording, this 17-track CD sampler of songs from the 2005 movie version will be more than enough to satisfy most newer, more casual fans. More than a taste, less than overkill, it provides a sampler of incredibly performed musical highlights from director Chris Columbus' big-screen adaptation of the popular stage musical, itself based on Puccini's "La Boheme."

Is It Any Good?

4

Given that the subject matter of the movie involves the gritty side of urban life, the songs are pretty tame. Lines like "I didn't recognize you without the handcuffs" (in "Light My Candle") or the joyfully howled lyrics in "Out Tonight" are as thematically risqué as it gets, and parental mileage will vary on appropriateness for younger kids and tweens. Impressive vocal performances and excellent musicianship, along with careful song selections and sequencing, cause the album to bubble along, perfectly paced and seamlessly mixed.

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