Soundtrack/various artists

The soundtrack to Baz Luhrmann’s extravagant film musical is an exciting mix of ballads, rock opera, hip-hop and techno. It opens and closes with David Bowie’s haunting version of Eden Ahbez’s "Nature Boy"; the latter is made even more surreal with help from Massive Attack. Already getting airplay is a remake of the ‘70s Labelle hit "Lady Marmalade," made even funkier by Christina Aguilera, Mya, Pink and Lil’ Kim’s bordello chic. Fatboy Slim checks in with his frantic version of the can-can, "Because We Can," which got me dancing wildly. In the "can they sing?" category is Nicole Kidman’s "Sparkling Diamonds" and Ewan McGregor’s cover of Elton John’s "Your Song"; Kidman coos in a breathy Marilyn Monroe voice, and McGregor’s vocals are surprisingly strong. Another standout is Beck’s very cool and very techno take on Bowie’s "Diamond Dogs." This is one of the best film musicals in years.