Since it was announced the chilling young adult novel 13 Reasons Why would be adapted into a Netflix original series, the whole world eagerly anticipated the premiere date to see the visual interpretation of the book. Produced by the multi-talented starlet Selena Gomez, the show follows the young Clay Jensen as he searches to find answers to the death of his high school crush, Hannah Baker.
Though the show has been met with mixed reviews from viewers, many of whom find the graphic portrayal of Hannah’s death to be inconsiderate to the project of raising awareness for bullying and teen suicide, there is one thing about the series all viewers agree is flawless: its soundtrack. A successful soundtrack is carefully curated, with each song adding to the visual content without overpowering the scenes. This compilation of tracks does exactly that, and even showcases a clever mix of both classic bands - like Joy Division and the Cure - and emerging artists, including Sir Sly and the Japanese House.
RELATED: Top 10 movie soundtracks we experienced in 2016
By far the greatest moment on the soundtrack comes from breakout indie-pop star, Billie Eilish. The inventive California crooner shines on the dreamy ode to suburban teenage apathy, “Bored.” Surprisingly impressive, however, are Selena Gomez’s own contributions to the soundtrack. Her cover of Yaz’s “Only You” is purely breathtaking, a haunting rendition of a quirky, unabashedly '80s original. It’s the first track on the album and it perfectly sets the tone for both the series and the remainder of the soundtrack. She also performs a captivating acoustic version of “Kill Em With Kindness,” a fan-favorite off her album Revival.
13 Reasons Why is a sordid, yet stunning piece of television with a beautifully complementary soundtrack. Each of the songs featured on this album captures the mood and arc of the series, from its most earnest moments to its most gut-wrenching ones.
The series and soundtrack are both available to stream now.