Though
not, in my opinion, as strong as the first batch of songs in the show, there’s
some good stuff in here. Today’s post
takes us through the end of Act I into the start of Act II.
“Friday Night, Jackson” – Bringing it again
with the tight scene-song. Nice hooks
mixed with plot and good character moments – I especially enjoy Twig being into
Bridget and Danielle starting to get a sense of what Campbell can really do.
Best
lyric: “She’s the kind of brave that I wish
I were!”
“Something Isn’t Right Here” – This one’s just
so-so, I think. It moves the plot
forward in a necessary way, with Campbell recognizing Eva as the villain of the
story (even though no one else can see it,) but there’s nothing too wild about
the melody or lyrics. Also, having
Campbell not knowing the word “redistricted” feels like an easy joke to me.
Best
lyric: “Is this all coincidence? / Just
unrelated incidents / That happened to occur? / Miraculously making way for
her?”
“Bring It On” – The Act I finale, while not super
long or intense, still brings it (I know, I’m sorry) where it counts. Realizing what she’s up against with Eva,
Campbell has her overwhelmed moment but then moves through it and gets down to
business. I love the determined tone of
the chorus, perfect for Campbell’s resolve not to let herself be beaten.
Best
lyric: “More than replaced, / It’s like
she’s erased the best of me.”
“It’s All Happening” – Another fantastic
scene song. As Campbell and Danielle try
to recruit kids for their squad, I like the way they paint a picture for their
potential converts. They offer a wide
assortment of motives, everything from fame/a chance to show off, to
representing their neighborhood and proving what they can do to the rich white
kids of the other schools.
Best
line: “What – are y’all scared? / Y’all
think cheerin’ is feminine? / Then I’m a feminist swimmin’ in / Women,
gentlemen!”
“Better” – Another just-okay song. By and large, the songs on the Truman High
side aren’t my favorite. This short
patter number gets the job done, establishing the Jackson squad as a credible
threat while Skylar protests too much, but there’s not much to it.
Best
lyric: “They’re blowing up on Twitter!”
– “They’re only glue and glitter!”
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