Telling the story of four drug addicts in Scotland, Danny Boyle’s tri-Oscar nominated adaptation of Irvine Welsh’s novel, Trainspotting cemented him as one of the leading contemporary British directors. The soundtrack consists of an eclectic, but complimentary cast of British artists, ranging from the pop of Blur to the ambience of Brian Eno and much in between.
Despite the musical differences, each track succeeds in creating a bleak mood with a sense of an almost naïve hope that everything will work out eventually, fitting the film to a T. The switch from proto-punk hit “Lust for Life” to “Deep Blue Day”’s subtle electronics defines this soundtrack perfectly for all the atmosphere of the songs as well as their juxtaposition.
If you are looking to smile in remembrance of the ironic use of Lou Reed’s “Perfect Day” or just listen to a wide-ranging compilation of excellent music, Trainspotting‘s soundtrack delivers and stands strong independent of the film.
Sountrack Listing (recommended tracks are highlighted)
- “Lust for Life” – Iggy Pop
- “Carmen Suite No.2” – Georges Bizet
- “Deep Blue Day” – Brian Eno
- “Trainspotting” – Primal Scream
- “Temptation” – Heaven 17
- “Atomic” – Sleeper
- “Temptation” – New Order
- “Atomic” – Blondie
- “Nightclubbing” – Iggy Pop
- “Sing” – Blur
- “Perfect Day” – Lou Reed
- “Dark and Long (Dark Train)” – Underworld
- “Think About the Way” – Frisco Vs. Ice MC
- “Mile End” – Pulp
- “For What You Dream Of” (Full-on Renaissance Mix) – Bedrock featuring KYO
- “2:1” – Elastica
- “Herzlich Tut Mich Verlangen” – Gabor Lehotka
- “Two Little Boys” – Ewen Bremner
- “A Final Hit” – Leftfield
- “Statuesque” – Sleeper
- “Born Slippy .NUXX” – Underworld
- “Closet Romantic” – Damon Albarn
