Holes Soundtrack (by Various Artists, Soundtrack)

Most of the optimistic, motivational lyrics on the HOLES SOUNDTRACK support the movie's story of kids in a juvenile detention center who are forced to search for buried treasure. To inspire the reform school kids, some lyrics suggest a Tony Robbins motivational seminar, such as Eagle-Eye Cherry singing "If we give we will receive" and reggae rapper Shaggy singing "Don't worry, push on through." If the music weren't so fun and accessible, the life-affirming clichés might grow old quickly. The only marginally edgy line is in a verse from "Shake 'Em On Down," where the North Mississippi All-Stars celebrate sex euphemistically: "One thing in this world I crave is a big-leg woman to shake me down to my grave."

Highlights of the soundtrack are numerous. Dr. John and his great band lay down a powerful dose of New Orleans funk on the joyful "Let's Make a Better World." Cuts by Moby ("Honey") and the D-Tent Boys ("Dig It") feature pastiches of gospel, blues, prison work songs, and hip-hop to great effect. Pepe Deluxe's "Everybody Pass Me By" weaves a hypnotic mix of bluesy slide guitar, electronica, and a snatch of lyrics from blues legend Robert Johnson's "Crossroads." On the whole, the musical performances are excellent.

Released on: April 15, 2003
Label: Walt Disney Records
Genre: Soundtrack