Nick Norton-Smith’s ‘I Get Knocked Down’ soundtrack is a colorful and energetic companion to the documentary about Chumbawamba and their unique path from punk activism to global recognition. The album reflects the spirit of the film, mixing different musical styles to match the band’s rebellious and restless nature. It opens with “Brighton Streets”, a lively tune that sets a vivid scene, followed by “Nirvana Squat”, which captures the raw energy of the band’s early days. “Am I Invisible Yet_” brings a more reflective tone, touching on feelings of frustration and fading relevance. The mood shifts with “Inclement Weather”, adding a sense of struggle and turbulence, while “Echo Chamber” delivers a haunting, atmospheric vibe that echoes the challenges of being heard in a noisy world. “Karma Krass” punches in with attitude, reminding listeners of the band’s sharp political edge.
The soundtrack moves through a mix of styles with “Big Homer” and “Time To Go Home Sweetheart” balancing humor and melancholy, a duality that defines much of the album. “Harry’s Laugh” and “Rate This X” inject quirky, almost playful moments that break up the more serious tones, showing the band’s willingness to experiment. “Trouble Makers” stands out with its rebellious spirit, while “Skoda Breakdown” and “Gearshift” evoke a gritty, almost mechanical feel, grounding the album in real-world struggles. “Ask Harry” and “Sheeeit” keep things raw and direct, cutting through any polish with a punchy, no-nonsense sound. The tracks “Universal” and “F_ck EMI” continue the album’s rebellious streak, tackling themes of industry frustration and broader social issues.
As the album draws to a close, “King of Pop” and “F_cks Sake” ramp up the urgency, reflecting the frustration and anger that linger beneath the surface. “The Ghost of Chumbawamba” is a thoughtful moment of reflection, acknowledging the past without being trapped by it. “Bending Ears” and “Not Very Good Pop Stars” bring a self-aware, almost ironic perspective to fame and music, while “Blah Blah Blah” closes the album with a sense of resigned humor. Across the whole record, Norton-Smith’s score never feels forced or out of place. It captures the essence of a band that always challenged expectations, with music that swings between playful, serious, angry, and hopeful — a perfect soundtrack for a story about resilience and rediscovery.
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