The anticipation surrounding the live-action adaptation of Minecraft continues to build as the film prepares for its theatrical release on April 4th. This week, fans were treated to a sneak peek of the film’s soundtrack with the debut of the original song “I Feel Alive.”
Musical Collaborations
Leading the charge on vocals is none other than Jack Black, a prominent cast member of the film. The track features the rhythmic prowess of Dave Grohl on drums, a pairing that has become synonymous with creative synergy. The song, infused with an ’80s rock vibe, is a product of Black’s collaboration with seasoned songwriters and producers Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt. Both Ronson and Wyatt have an impressive portfolio, having contributed to the soundtracks of acclaimed films such as Barbie and A Star Is Born. Wyatt, in addition to his production work, is known as the frontman of the indie band Miike Snow.
Adding to the song’s depth, fellow cast member Danielle Brooks provides additional vocals, while the guitar work is expertly handled by Troy Van Leeuwen, a longtime member of the rock band Queens of the Stone Age.
The collaboration between Grohl and Black is a continuation of their longstanding partnership, which has seen them join forces on various projects, including performances with Black’s band, Tenacious D. Grohl’s drumming contributions can be traced back to Tenacious D’s self-titled debut in 2001 and their 2018 album Post-Apocalyptico. Their camaraderie was further highlighted during a memorable performance of “The Metal” in 2010, often cited as one of Grohl’s standout drum moments. Most recently, the duo collaborated on a 2022 Hanukkah Sessions cover of Rush’s “The Spirit of Radio.”
In addition to “I Feel Alive,” the official soundtrack will also feature an original score composed by Mark Mothersbaugh of DEVO fame. The film boasts an impressive cast, including Black, Brooks, Jason Momoa, Emma Myers, and Jennifer Coolidge, among others.
As Black immerses himself in his acting role this year, he is set to further promote A Minecraft Movie by hosting an episode of Saturday Night Live on April 5th. Meanwhile, Tenacious D remains on a hiatus, following a series of events that included a controversial joke by bandmate Kyle Gass about an attempted assassination of former President Trump. Despite the current pause, Black has reassured fans that Tenacious D will return in due time.
