Oct 21 2008
A new way to hear some classic film themes
Sure, Isaac Hayes is hard to top, but have you ever heard the soul master’s original theme song for the 1971 blaxploitation hit Shaft performed by…ukeleles?
Well, here’s your chance:
The ensemble doing the deed here is The Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain, an eight man-and-woman band that does some toe-tapping covers of movie themes and other music, from Tchaikovsky to Nirvana. Covers can often be cheap imitations or lame jokes, but I have to admit that I think the Ukelele Orchestra really puts enough of a personalized spin to make their interpretations fun instead of teeth-gnashingly cutesy.
Here’s another clip, one in which the group performs Ennio Morricone’s unforgettable theme for The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.
The official website for the Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain features show dates, performer bios, MP3s and more. Check it out!
