“Big Little Lies” is an HBO-mini series following the drama-filled, exuberant lives of five middle-aged mothers. With a tasteful lineup of Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Laura Dern, Shailene Woodley, Zoe Kravitz, Adam Scott, this show was sure to rock my world. Evenings are dedicated to wine-sipping on the patio of their multi-million dollar mansions in Monterey. I’d say their music selection team did a wonderful job of translating this vibe to the viewer.
Just from the intro song, “Cold Little Heart” by Michael Kiwanuka, you know that this show and its soundtrack are going to be life-altering. And for me, it was. I had never heard of Michael Kiwanuka before, but man was I put on. The 10-minute version of “Cold Little Heart” is so breath-taking, it easily surpasses a “Runaway” by Kanye West rating. It is genuinely a musical journey, starting off light with the orchestra, then the choir comes in, and finally Kiwanuka belts his heart out. Each major transition has such a transcending build up, it makes the peak even more heavenly to the ear. Anyway, hearing that intro and watching how it paired with the intro instilled in me immediately that this was going to be one hell-of-a series.
If you were born before the year 1990 or have some type of musical taste, you could take a look at the soundtrack right now and understand its hype. “River” by Leon Bridges, “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac, “Burning Love” by Elvis Presley, “Cherish the Day” by Sade, “I’ll Be Around” by the Spinners, “This Feeling” by Alabama Shakes, and so many more immediately jump off of the page. I am not well-versed with the second season, but God looking at the soundtrack already gets me excited for it.
What makes the soundtrack so impactful is how the cinematographer combines these songs with the filming. The entire show surrounds a murder mystery, and the film holds an eerie tint that makes it hard to trust anyone. I play these songs when I am dancing around in my tiny college house, cooking a sub-par delicacy from Trader Joe’s for dinner, opening up the windows to feel the summer breeze rush in, and spending my Sunday re-organizing my room. It adds a mysterious-tint to the usual alt/Yacht vibe of music. Honestly, I’d say that Reese and Nicole would approve.
After a rowdy weekend when I am in need of some serious grounding, “September Song” is my music of choice. Similar to its purpose in the show, it unsuccessfully covers any negativity and hangxiety but offers the opportunity of a new week. Eh, that sounds sad. I’d say that line was more directed as a metaphor to the end of season 1. But it is a good song, just gives “Call Me By Your Name” a little.
Anyway, if you ever need a “wine night” playlist, this is the soundtrack for you.
Sources
Iz FM 
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