'Mix'-ing it up in 'The O.C.'

Before I begin my review of Music from The O.C.: Mix 1, let me inform you of something: I love "The O.C.," I watch it every week without fail, and it captivates me. I found myself cheering when Ryan punched Oliver and later found myself saying "Oh, snap" as Luke's affair with Julie was revealed. The show transports me from a cold, dark Indiana Wednesday evening to the warm sunshine of high school drama. The first of many proposed soundtracks to the show gave me the same feeling. \nThe CD features mostly indie and lesser known bands, as the only real "hit" song is Phantom Planet's "California" (also the show's theme song). If you look at the track list, you may be taken aback (Alexi Murdoch, Joseph Arthur, anyone?) but upon listening, fans of the show should be familiar with the songs. Quite simply, the songs are good. A mixture of chill and mid-tempo songs, they capture the spirit of the show which is young love, young break-ups and young reconciliation. \nBetter known bands such as Jet, Doves and Spoon contribute stellar album cuts ranging from ballads to party starters. Lesser-known acts, like Jem and The 88, supply the quick-hitting pop songs which are refreshing and feel very O.C.-esque. \nCreator Josh Schwartz is clearly having fun writing his show to the music he likes, and unlike the adult contempory-saturated "Dawson's Creek" soundtracks, this is more authentic to what kids listen to today. Mix 1 goes for the "hip" factor and it succeeds. I'm positive hipsters would love this collection of songs if it were a plain silver Memorex mix CD with no affiliation with "The O.C." Fans of the show and those open to good new music will enjoy it. Sunshine not included.