Kill Bill -- Vol. 1 (2003) Like his films, Quentin Tarantino's soundtracks are a compelling blend of pop-culture oddities, fist-pumping action, and arch, ironic kitsch. Less accessible and more melancholy than… Various Artists Soundtracks
Isaac Hayes | 'BILL' OF RITES Tarantino's current soundtrack predictably uses artists such as Isaac Hayes
Image credit: Isaac Hayes: Michael Putland / RetnaUK
'BILL' OF RITES Tarantino's current soundtrack predictably uses artists such as Isaac Hayes
EW's GRADE
B+

Details Release Date: Sep 23, 2003; Lead Performance: Various Artists; Genre: Soundtracks

Like his films, Quentin Tarantino's soundtracks are a compelling blend of pop-culture oddities, fist-pumping action, and arch, ironic kitsch. Less accessible and more melancholy than his previous soundtracks, the Kill Bill -- Vol. 1 collection mixes up expected Tarantino picks (surf rock, Isaac Hayes, rockabilly) with some new tricks (Japanese schmaltz, big-band jazz), including an epic flamenco-disco cover of the Animals' ''Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood.'' Contributions from the RZA are a disappointment, but Tarantino gets points for making Zamfir (yes, the master of the pan flute) sound cool.

Originally posted Oct 27, 2003 Published in issue #735 Oct 31, 2003 Order article reprints