Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
'The Last Dragon'
Motown Records
Released 6th August 2001

 It is a well known fact that some films have brilliant soundtracks even though the film itself may not be up to scratch, and vice versa, and although I haven't personally seen this film, the soundtrack on first listen is ever so similar to the likes of 'Beverley Hills Cop' with music from Glen Frey/Pointer Sisters etc. That said the quality overall is very good except that it isn't a soul album in the true sense even though it features an array of well known acts.

The opening title sequence could have come from the 'Warriors' film opening a high powered semi-rock track with a backing track not too dissimilar to Rockwell's 'Somebody's Watching You' before moving swiftly onto '7th Heaven' performed by Vanity who worked closely with Prince back in the eighties. This song is typical of her solo releases during that period with a heavy production and tight arrangement. Steel drums and a caribbean feel are the order of the day as the excellent 'Star' from Alfie becomes the first real soul tune of this soundtrack and what a brilliant tune this - eat your heart out Whitney - this is how it should really be done.

Back in early 1982 I had the pleasure of working on the Charlene number 1 UK hit 'I've Never Been To Me' and also presented her live PA to my then Thursday night audience and whilst Charlene was far removed from what we had all come to know from Motown she slapped the critics in the face by taking a pop number one, and her tune 'Fire' a fast and furious song in the vein of 'The Heat Is On' makes great listening and is most melodious and is one of those songs that gets you hooked after just a couple of plays. A great song for American soundtracks.

The big hit song from this film was the much loved 'Rhythm Of The Night' from DeBarge which apart from being the film's highlight also proved to be a massive floor filler in its day. Since then of course it has been re-recorded in the 90's by Powerhouse.

The love theme to the film is the gorgeous ballad from the legendary Smokey Robinson who duets with Stevie Wonder's ex wife Syreeta for 'First Time On A Ferris Wheel' which can also be found on Syreeta's best of CD for Spectrum. Veteran singer/songwriter Willie Hutch turns in a credible song with 'The Glow' and he teams up with the Temptations for 'Inside You' which is another uptempo dance styled offering. Last but not least Stevie Wonder not wanting to be left out delivers like only he can with the self written 'Upset Stomach'. One thing about Stevie - he always writes his own material and never relies on others.

Whether you've seen the movie or not, the soundtrack is very enjoyable and grows on you with each listen.

Rating 7/10