Written by M. J. Washington
Every once in a while, a movie comes along that reminds us why we fell in love with music in the first place. Craig Brewer’s Song Sung Blue is exactly that kind of film, telling the true, heart-on-its-sleeve story of Mike and Claire Sardina, the Milwaukee couple who transformed into the Neil Diamond tribute duo Lightning and Thunder. To celebrate this soulful jukebox musical, the folks over at Mutant (in partnership with Back Lot Music and Focus Features) have delivered a physical release that is as vibrant and blue as the title suggests.
Buy Song Sung Blue albumThe Music
The centerpiece of this 2LP set is the surprisingly robust vocal work from lead actors Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. We already knew Jackman could carry a tune from his time on Broadway and The Greatest Showman, but here he leans into the grit and baritone warmth required of a Neil Diamond “interpreter.” His renditions of classics like “I Am… I Said” and “Holly Holy” feel lived-in rather than just imitated.
The real revelation, however, is Kate Hudson. While she has the unenviable task of following in the footsteps of Patsy Cline for tracks like “Walkin’ After Midnight,” she brings a husky, rock-and-roll edge to the Neil Diamond songbook that truly shines. When the two join forces for “Sweet Caroline” or “Forever in Blue Jeans,” the chemistry that anchored the film is front and center.
Beyond the leads, the album offers some delightful detours. Michael Imperioli (of The Sopranos and The White Lotus fame) delivers charmingly retro covers of Buddy Holly’s “Oh Boy!” and “Everyday,” and The Ton3s bring a smooth R&B energy to “Get On Up.” It’s an eclectic mix that perfectly captures the spirit of a working-class tribute band making their way through the dive bars of the Midwest.
Presentation and Sound Quality
Mutant has really gone all out with the packaging on this one. The 2LP set is pressed on “Pool Water Blue” vinyl (with some retailers offering a “Blue Glitter” variant), and the gatefold sleeve features striking artwork that captures the film’s neon-lit, nostalgic atmosphere.
Visual Quality
The design work on the jacket and the labels is top-tier. The choice of blue for the vinyl isn’t just a pun on the title; it looks fantastic spinning on a platter and fits the aesthetic of the 80s and 90s Milwaukee setting. The gatefold includes some great production stills that remind you of the scale Brewer brought to this intimate story.
Audio Quality
The mastering on this release is exceptionally clean. For a film that deals so heavily with the “sound” of a tribute band, it was vital that the record didn’t sound too polished or clinical. The record captures the warmth of the acoustic guitars and the punch of the percussion. Scott Bomar’s production ensures that the vocals sit right at the front of the mix, giving you the feeling of being in the front row of a Lightning and Thunder show.
Tracklist
- Side A: Cherry, Cherry; I’m a Believer; Oh Boy!; Walkin’ After Midnight; Get On Up
- Side B: Forever in Blue Jeans; Sweet Caroline; Play Me; Crunchy Granola Suite
- Side C: Holly Holy; Everyday; Sweet Dreams; I Am… I Said
- Side D: I’ve Been This Way Before; Soolaimon/Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show; Song Sung Blue
Overall
Whether you are a Neil Diamond superfan or just someone who loved the underdog story of Mike and Claire, the Song Sung Blue soundtrack is a must-add to your collection. It’s a joyous, heartfelt celebration of music that manages to be both a great movie tie-in and a solid standalone listen. Mutant has proven that they know exactly how to handle a physical release for fans who still care about the “feel” of an album.
Grade: A-
The Song Sung Blue soundtrack is available to purchase from Mutant.
