Search - Various Artists :: Malcolm In the Middle (2000 TV Series)

The soundtrack album of the popular TV show Malcolm in the Middle kicks out a few tires and windows as it replicates the boundless, smart-assed enthusiasm of youth. They Might Be Giants wrote an entire song ("Boss of Me") around the show's theme music, and it's the duo's spastic energy that sets the tone. The addition of bands with proven laugh tracks, such as Barenaked Ladies and Screamin' Cheetah Wheelies (who attack Dr. John's '70s hit "Right Place, Wrong Time" with punk-funk smarts), keeps things flowing as expected. But the surprises are what's interesting. Reeling from their David Letterman endorsed "Who Let the Dogs Out," the Baha Men provide the subtler, melodic "You All Dat" (radio mix), which won't be chanted in stadiums worldwide, but is a catchy tune nonetheless. Sneaking Hanson onto a soundtrack filled with promising acts like Travis, Eagle-Eye Cherry, and Stroke 9 might seem like a breach of protocol, but isn't being sneaky and deceitful part of the show's charm in the first place? --Rob O'Connor