The prospect of Eminem starring in a film must have truly delighted his enemies. At last, they must have surmised, the man who no contemporary rapper can outperform lyrically would finally be exposed. Anyone remember Vanilla Ice’s movie debut? Exactly.

Well, it looks like their day has not yet come. 8 Mile has opened in the States to rave reviews and a rapturous public reception. The film soundtrack, masterminded by Eminem, deserves more of the same. Although not all of these sixteen tracks are special, there is more than enough here of high quality to hold any rap fan enthralled.

Unsurprisingly, the four tracks fronted by Eminem are among the most compelling. ‘Lose Yourself’ is the standout, a brilliant rap performance, leavened with rushing beats and dramatic, menacing backing. Passion bursts from every syllable as Eminem reaches into the life of his film alter ego, Rabbit, and paints a fantastically visceral picture of the turmoil he finds there.

Not all the other contributions work as well. Although Xzibit has a massive reputation Stateside, ‘Spit Shine’ never develops beyond its initial hook, and Xzibit himself seems to have nothing to say worth hearing. Tracks from Nas and Obie Trice are likewise anodyne and uninspired.

But with the help of a good editing button, this soundtrack shines. Jay-Z’s ‘8 Miles and Runnin’, melds a catchy chorus with stylish, memorable rapping. Boomkat, Gangstarr and D12 also impress, although the caveat should be added that since this is the ‘clean’ version of the soundtrack, not much of D12’s notoriously hardcore rapping actually makes it onto the record. In their case, this may well be a good thing.

All in all, this OST comes recommended.