Wang Chung - To Live And Die In L.A.

Released in 1985

When director William Friedkin selected the British pop band Wang Chung to create the soundtrack and film score for To Live and Die in L.A., his gritty tale of a ruthless forger and the determined secret service agent that's on his trail, many were shocked at the seemingly odd choice. Yet a brilliant choice it was, for Wang Chung produced an extremely moody synth-pop soundtrack that complimented the tone of the film.

Often albums designed specifically for a film succeed in lending atmosphere to the movie but fail to provide a rich standalone listening experience. To Live and Die in L.A. is one of those uncommon soundtracks that can easily stand alone on its own merits; I've popped in the CD and enjoyed it while working and/or resting without any thought of the film it was based on.

Some of the album's highlights are:

To Live And Die In L.A. – Perhaps due to this being a soundtrack, this was the only single released for the album. Nonetheless, this track was well worth the price of admission all by itself.
City Of The Angels – Although none of the songs on the album could be considered popular when compared to their normal studio albums, this song's instrumental appeal did grant it some radio airplay.
Wait – Great synth-pop with a driving tempo.

It's really a shame that more synth-pop fans aren't familiar with this album, because it ranks among both the band's and the genre's best work. If you haven't already experienced this album, it can generally be had for under $7.00, so the price is definitely right. Just expect a moodier and more atmospheric Wang Chung than you've grown accustomed to on their other albums.

Rating: 7 stars

Track List

To Live and Die in L.A.
Lullaby
Wake up, Stop Dreaming
Wait
City of the Angels
The Red Stare
Black-Blue-White
Every Big City

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