Various - Absolute Beginners (The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (2 x LP)

Absolute Beginners is a 1986 soundtrack featuring diverse artists from pop rock and jazz. The album supports the film based on the novel by Colin MacInnes. David Bowie contributes the title track which became a hit blending pop and soul David Bowie. The soundtrack also features contributions from Sade and The Style Council enhancing its rich musical variety.

The album includes Have You Ever Had It Blue by The Style Council mixing jazz and pop. Sade’s Killer Blow delivers her signature smooth sound blending soul and jazz. Ray Davies from The Kinks provides Quiet Life offering a nostalgic feel. Each track captures the vibrant 1950s London youth culture depicted in the film.

Jazz influences are strong with Gil Evans arranging parts of the soundtrack. His work adds depth to the orchestration giving a cinematic and atmospheric quality. Smiley Culture’s So What? introduces reggae reflecting London’s multicultural scene. The mix of styles showcases the musical diversity defining the British music landscape of the 1980s.

The soundtrack balances mainstream appeal and artistic experimentation making it a unique collection. Bowie's involvement helped elevate the film’s profile despite its mixed reception. While the movie was not a major success the soundtrack remains a highlight of the era. Its fusion of pop jazz and soul captures the dynamic energy of mid-80s British music.