Natalie Portman Chose Songs for IODA/ITunes Benefit Compilation

To benefit FINCA -- an organization that fights poverty by providing microloans to entrepreneurs worldwide -- Natalie Portman compiled a selection of tunes from artists who are part of the Independent Online Distribution Alliance (IODA), as well as tracks from a few of her friends, into a digital album that goes on sale today in the iTunes Plus DRM-Free music store for $8 (iTunes link).

"I am honoredthat so many of my favorite artists have so generously lent these beautifulsongs in the name of ending poverty," said Portman in a statement issued today. "FINCA
helps the poor realize their own potential through extending small loans tostart small businesses. I'm so excited that two of my passions, great newmusic and microfinance, can collide in such an inspiring and world-betteringfashion. I hope you enjoy my favorite bands while supporting a trulymeaningful cause."

Judging from the tracklist, which includes a few exclusive tracks, Portman has a fairly evolved musical taste:

1. BeGood (TokyoPolice Club)

2. MyNight With the Prostitute From Marseille (Beirut)
[exclusive]

3. PlaidLined Jacket (Tom Brosseau)

4. TudoBem Malandro (Curumin)

5. Australia(The Shins - Bjorn Yttling Mix) [exclusive]

6. Ain'tNo Reason (Brett Dennen)

7. Turnaroundturnmeon(Sean Hayes)

8. OhYes, Another Mother (Thee More Shallows)

9. TheBeast (Angus & Julia Stone)

10. Paddy'sGone (Antony& The Johnsons)

11. IdleTies (Vetiver)

12. Broken(Norah Jones)

13. There'sAlways Something Happening (Devendra Banhart) [exclusive]

14. What Isa Soul? (M. Ward) [exclusive]

15. ForgivenessFigg (BethanyHotel Blues) (Wooden Wand)

16. HowWe Landed (Rogue Wave) [exclusive]

ITunes Plus Store Link: Natalie Portman-Curated IODA Compilation for FINCA

(In related news, Hanson is walking a whole mile today to raise "awareness" about the connection between poverty and HIV/AIDS.)