“House of Lies” is one of the top hit shows on Showtime that was recently renewed for its fourth season. If you have never seen the show, it is based around the business and personal life of Marty Kaan, played by Don Cheadle.
Cheadle plays a manipulative, cold, and immoral management consultant. Both in and outside of work, he has to deal with many trials and tribulations. Possibly well deserved considering he spends much of his time making shady business transactions.
Besides the tremendous storyline, the real draw to this show is the soundtrack.
The blues as well as jazz heavily influences many of the twelve original songs on the track list, which makes sense considering the nature of Marty Kaan’s personal and business life. Admittedly, things do not always go all that well for him.
However, if blues and jazz are not your thing, do not worry, because that is not the only genre this album has to offer.
The soundtrack for “House of Lies” has a few big names in their lineup, and some not so well known artists to round things out.
Michael Kiwanuka’s “It Always Comes Back Around” is one of my personal favorite songs on this album. Between Kiwanuka’s addictive bluesy hook and the simple instrumentals to back things up, this song is a winner. The song is soft, slow, and yet still remains passionate with the message of karma.
“Brains Out” by Kim Cesarion is pretty much the only “pump-you-up” song on this album, but it is just so great. I am actually shocked this song has not topped the Billboard Hot 100.
His high-pitched singing in the song is very comparable to that of Justin Timberlake. So much so that I am convinced Timberlake actually is in the song! Cesarion is a force to be reckoned with in the world of upcoming pop artists.
The real shining glory of this soundtrack came from Gary Clark Jr. with “Bright Lights”. With his mix of blues, rock, and a hint of hip-hop, Gary Clark Jr. is our modern day Jimi Hendrix. When listening to this song, you cannot help but to lose yourself in it.
The soundtrack for “House of Lies” is a great mix of artists. My only gripe about this album is the complete lack of female voices.
However, since the show revolves around one cold, hard man, it would make sense for the soundtrack to mirror that. This album is a must buy. Check it out on iTunes, Amazon, or any store that sells great music.
If you want to listen to it before you make a commitment, you can always just listen to it on Spotify. I am sure you will be ready to “put a ring on it” once you hear it!
Lauren Dwyer
Senior Features Editor