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.


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