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"Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" Soundtrack: A Vibrant Musical Journey

Album Overview.

"Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" is the soundtrack for the 2008 animated film of the same name. Released on November 4, 2008, by Interscope Records, the album features a dynamic blend of pop, contemporary rock, and R&B. The collaboration between composer Hans Zimmer and artist will.i.am brings a unique energy to the film's narrative.

• Release Date: November 4, 2008.


• Genre: Pop, Contemporary Rock, R&B.


• Length: 49 minutes and 33 seconds.


• Label: Interscope Records.


• Producers: Hans Zimmer, will.i.am.


• Chart Performance:
  
  
  
  • US Billboard 200: Peaked at #100.
  
  
  • US Top Internet Albums: Peaked at #32.
  
  
  • US Soundtrack Albums: Peaked at #18.
  
  
  
  

Production and Reception.

Hans Zimmer and will.i.am traveled to Africa to draw inspiration from its rich musical heritage. They collaborated with local musicians, infusing authentic African sounds into the soundtrack. This effort resulted in a vibrant and culturally resonant musical experience. The soundtrack received generally favorable reviews, with critics praising its lively and pleasant composition. However, some critics offered more critical perspectives on its execution.

Critic's Reviews.

Andrew Leahey of AllMusic noted that the soundtrack's emphasis on music helps fine-tune it into a lighthearted, pleasant album. In contrast, Jonathan Broxton referred to it as the "worst soundtrack written for any major animated film of recent years." Filmtracks.com mentioned that it remains the best entry for the infectiously cute main escape theme.

Track Highlights.

Here are some standout tracks from the album:

1. "Once Upon a Time in Africa" by Hans Zimmer: Sets the adventurous tone of the film with its vibrant rhythms.


2. "The Traveling Song" by will.i.am: Reflects themes of home and friendship, resonating with the characters' journey.


3. "I Like to Move It" by will.i.am: A fresh take on the classic hit, energizing the film's dance sequences.


4. "Big and Chunky" by will.i.am: Adds humor and flair, complementing the film's comedic moments.


5. "Alex on the Spot" by Hans Zimmer and will.i.am: Captures the protagonist's spirit with its upbeat tempo.

Musical Styles and Themes.

The soundtrack blends pop, rock, and R&B with traditional African musical elements. This fusion mirrors the film's setting and themes of exploration and self-discovery. The inclusion of authentic African rhythms and instruments enriches the storytelling, providing cultural depth.

Movie Background.

"Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" continues the adventures of Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe, and Gloria the hippo. After leaving Madagascar, they find themselves in the African savanna, encountering others of their species. Alex reunites with his parents, leading to personal revelations and growth. The film features voice talents such as Ben Stiller (Alex), Chris Rock (Marty), David Schwimmer (Melman), and Jada Pinkett Smith (Gloria). Released in 2008, the film was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $603 million worldwide.

Main Cast of the Movie.

Ben Stiller as Alex.

Ben Stiller voices Alex, a lion who discovers his roots and reconnects with his family in Africa.

Chris Rock as Marty.

Chris Rock portrays Marty, a zebra embracing his individuality among a herd of look-alikes.

David Schwimmer as Melman.

David Schwimmer plays Melman, a hypochondriac giraffe who finds courage and love.

Jada Pinkett Smith as Gloria.

Jada Pinkett Smith voices Gloria, a confident hippo exploring romance and self-worth.

Sacha Baron Cohen as King Julien.

Sacha Baron Cohen provides the voice for King Julien, the eccentric lemur king bringing humor to the journey.

Quotes.

"The Madagascar series relies heavily on music, often injecting songs directly into the movies' plot lines, and that emphasis helps fine-tune this soundtrack into a lighthearted, pleasant album."

Andrew Leahey, AllMusic

"Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa remains the best entry for the infectiously cute main escape theme."

Filmtracks.com

The "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" soundtrack stands as a testament to the power of music

December, 30th 2024

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