Motorcycle Diaries (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

As with the film, the soundtrack to Motorcycle Diaries exudes a humanity and poignant grace through its 23 tracks. Helmed with evident care and craftsmanship by Gustavo Santaollala, who was also behing the scores to Amores Perros and 21 Grams this soundtrack serves to not only powerfully support the film but stands as a rich musical experience on its own. The sweeping electric guitar and cajon duet "Apertura" opens both the film and the album, and builds from there, anchored by the nimble musical minds of Santaollala and ensemble. The bulk of the release is grounded in the alternately languid and spiky guitar work of Santaollala's, impressionistic musical snapshots that encompass the effervescence of "Chipi Chipi" (the mad dance scene in the film) to the junkyard symphony of "La Partida". The song "Al Otro Lado del Rio " surprised many by snaring an Oscar for Best Original Song, but it well deserved the victory.