VA - In The Name Of The Father (Music From The Motion Picture Soundtrack) (1994)

In the Name of the Father focuses on the wrongful convictions of Giuseppe and Gerry Conlon, a father and son forced to serve time for an IRA-related bombing in which they never involved. The soundtrack to the haunting biopic finds fellow Irish musicians at the helm and it's not surprising that U2 main man Bono is center. He and composer Trevor Jones shape a dramatic soundscape featuring cult favorites from the Kinks and Jimi Hendrix, as well as hits from Bob Marley & the Wailers and fellow Irishmen Thin Lizzy. While most critics might disagree with the film's title track, "In the Name of the Father" is a passionate movement of classic Irish sounds. Bono's rich vocals are provocative alongside the chilling dialogue delivered by his childhood friend/entertainer Gavin Friday. This song captures the fight and fit of the film itself, as well as Bono's classic appeal as a singer. The charm doesn't stop -- he and Friday also get a little funky, and a hint of swagger that's made them both stars is most evident on "Billy Boola." Not all U2 fans will embrace this disco-inflated track, but those who cherish the seriousness from one of Ireland's songbirds will enjoy Sinéad O'Connor's contribution to the album. "You Made Me the Thief of Your Heart" is a breathtaking end to the story; it's cold in presentation, but, vocally, not without heart. In the Name of the Father isn't meant to be a cohesive listen, but most U2 completists should be pleased.~Review by MacKenzie Wilson