Irene Cara / Donna Summer / Laura Branigan
Flashdance (Original Soundtrack From The Motion Picture)
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

Sealed 1982 Original. "Flashdance" is a fevered mélange of 1980s pop that transcends its cinematic origins, becoming something of a cultural artifact in its own right. The album is anchored by Irene Cara's ubiquitous hit "Flashdance... What a Feeling," a track that shimmers with synth-driven vitality and anthemic exuberance. Its pulsating beat and Cara's impassioned vocals encapsulate the era's penchant for transformative, feel-good anthems that double as calls to personal empowerment. Yet, as with any soundtrack that aims to define a film, the album does more than offer standalone hits; it weaves a tapestry of sonic motifs that capture the scrappy resilience and kinetic energy of its protagonist, echoing the broader themes of aspiration and defiance.

On the other hand, the presence of stalwarts such as Donna Summer and Laura Branigan provides a dynamic contrast, infusing the record with their unique vocal styles and interpretive flair. Summer's contributions, characterized by her sultry, commanding presence, imbue the soundtrack with a touch of disco-infused sophistication. Meanwhile, Michael Sembello's powerhouse delivery on "Maniac" adds a layer of emotional gravitas. Collectively, the soundtrack emerges as a pulsating heartbeat of early '80s pop culture—a sonic snapshot of a time when music was not only a backdrop but a catalyst for the vivid dreams of a restless generation.