One of the great things about Guardians of the Galaxy is its soundtrack, which in itself is one of the key plot points for the primary character, and is in itself a celebration of the lost art of the mix tape (as flexible as the playlist is, you never have to put in as much time or effort putting one together as you would a mix tape). As widely an entertaining compilation of late 60s to early 80s pop hits as you could wish to have, it flirts with all manner of soul-pop, soft-rock and power-pop.
From the irresistable 'Oogachakka' chant that opens Blue Swede's rendition of "Hooked on a Feeling", via Norman Greenbaum's immortal "Spirit in the Sky", 10cc's choral synth brilliance of "I'm Not in Love", to the brilliantly dumb Joan Jett and Kim Fowley penned "Cherry Bomb" by The Runaways, before finally closing with Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell's life-affirming "Ain't No Mountain High Enough", Awesome Mix Volume 1 is a celebration of the diversity of pop music. It's even given me an appreciation for pop standards that I never imagined I would ever appreciate, such as "I Want You Back" by Jackson 5, and Rupert Holmes' sacchirin "Escape (The Pina Colada Song)".
By: p_q