Dark Shadows: Original Score (a J!-ENT World Groove Album Review)

Another wonderful music collaboration between composer Danny Elfman and filmmaker Tim Burton.  A soundtrack that is dark, eery with its powerful strings and haunting melodies, for those who have enjoyed Elfman’s music, especially his darker style of music over the years, will surely enjoy “Dark Shadows: Original Score”.

Image is courtesy of © 2012 WaterTower Music, 4000 Warner Blvd., Burbank,  CA 91522.  Motion Picture Artwork © 2012 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All rights reserved. Motion Picture Photography © 2012 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. – - U.S., Canada, Bahamas & Bermuda © 2012 Village Roadshow Films (BVI) Limited – - All Other Territories

TITLE: Dark Shadows: Original Score

LABEL: WaterTower Music

DURATION: 52:46

RELEASE DATE: May 8, 2012

1. Dark Shadows Prologue (Uncut)
2. Resurrection
3. Vicki Enters Collinwood
4. Deadly Handshake
5. Shadows (Reprise)
6. Is It Her?
7. Barnabas Comes Home
8. Vicki’s Nightmare
9. Hypno Music
10. Killing Dr. Hoffman
11. Dumping the Body
12. Roger Departs
13. Burn Baby Burn/In-Tombed
14. Lava Lamp
15. The Angry Mob
16. House of Blood
17. Final Confrontation
18. Widows’ Hill (Finale)
19. The End? (Uncut)
20. More the End?
21. We Will End You!

While Danny Elfman will always be remembered as being the founder and lead vocalist/musician of the band “Oingo Boingo”, Elfman will also be known as one of the legendary composers of Hollywood.

Having developed a working relationship with filmmaker Tim Burton with writing the score for “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure”, the collaboration would further blossom the following year as Elfman would score the first major “Batman” film.

Since then, he has scored many hit films and collaborated with many other filmmakers as well as creating the score for TV shows including “The Simpsons”.  But it’s the collaboration with Tim Burton, which we hear their unique collaboration take effect in a fantasy, adventure or dark, brooding musical formation.  May it be “Edward Scissorhands”, “Sleepy Hollow”, “Big Fish”, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”, “Corpse Bride” or “Alice in Wonderland”, the working relationship between both men have worked in cinema and musical harmony.

And now both Danny Elfman and Tim Burton will work again for the upcoming film “Dark Shadows”, a fantasy comedy film based on the popular gothic soap opera which aired on television back in 1996 through 1971.

The film stars Johnny Depp as Barnabas Collins (a 200-year-old vampire) and Michelle Pfeiffer as his cousin Elizabeth Collins Stoddard, the matriarch of the Collins family.

For those not familiar with the “Dark Shadows” storyline, back in 1752, the Collins family move from England to North America where the son, Barnabas is a wealthy playboy living in Collinsport, Maine and is the master of the Collinwood Manor.  The witch, Angelique Bouchard is deeply in love with him but Barnabas breaks her heart.

In return for breaking her heart, she turns Barnabas into a vampire and buries him alive.

That is until he is discovered and freed fro his coffin in modern times and finds out that the people who live in his mansion are quite dysfunctional and carry with them, dark secrets of their own.

For the original score of “Dark Shadows”, the music is produced by Danny Elfman and orchestrations were done with Steve Bartek, Edgardo Simone and David Slonaker.  The orchestra leader is Thomas Bowes and conductor is Rick Wentworth.  The film also features the Metro Voices Choir and the Cardinal Vaughan School Choir.

The soundtrack features 21 tracks and opens with the longest track on the album, “Dark Shadows – Prologue” which captures the dark and ominous style with organs and beautiful strings as we hear the choir.    In many ways, it’s just as powerful as his original work on “Batman” with the use of strings and choir to reinforce that darker style which Elfman is known for.

And the brooding, choir and strings combination continues in other tracks which sound quite haunting on tracks such as “Resurrection”, “Vicki Enters Collinwood” and “Deadly Handshake”.

But then you hear a change in style as the short “Shadows Reprise” benefits from a digital touch of synth with the strings.  And “House of Blood” utilizes screeching wings with haunted melodies.

There are also several tracks that are under a minute long such as “Is It Her”, “Hypno Music”, “Dumping the Body”.

But while the soundtrack is focused on the strings and choir and most tracks are dark in presentation, there one track is not as dark which was “Lava Lamp” which utilizes a xylophone and a woodwind instrument.

But for the majority of the tracks, especially for the later tracks, the soundtrack features plenty of tracks that are strings-driven with haunting melodies and choir-driven harmonies.

Once again, for those who are familiar with Danny Elfman’s work, this gothic style tends to prevail throughout the entire album and unlike another gothic soundtrack such as “The Corpse Bride” which allowed for satire, the orchestrations for “Dark Shadow” are primarily ominous and dark but yet keeping consistent with the the theme of the film and the dark secrets that surround the characters.

Overall, “Dark Shadows: Original Score” shows us why Danny Elfman is often the right person to take on these more ominous soundtracks.  He manages to incorporate an enchanting, dark and eery side to his music, but yet manages to be one of the most versatile composers in the world for cinema.

If you enjoy Danny Elfman’s darker style of music, you will enjoy “Dark Shadows: Original Score”.

Titanic: An Epic Musical Voyage (a J!-ENT World Groove Album Review)

“Titanic: An Epic Musical Voyage” is an album with diverse music, featuring a balance of beautiful instrumental and vocal tracks, but if anything, a wonderful accompaniment to those who have purchased the “Titanic: Collector’s Anniversary Edition” album or for those wanting music that is fresh, enjoyable and different from the original versions.

TITLE: TITANIC: AN EPIC MUSICAL VOYAGE

LABEL: BUYSOUNDTRAX Records

DURATION: 1:09:01

RELEASE DATE: April 2, 2012

1.	My Heart Will Go On (Vocal Version) – Titanic (James Horner, Will Jennings / performed by Zoe Poledouris Roche)	5:06
2.	Never An Absolution/Unable to Stay, Unwilling to Leave – Titanic (James Horner / vocals by Kristi Holden)	5:33
3.	Southampton/Take Her to Sea, Mr. Murdoch – Titanic (James Horner / vocals by Kristi Holden)	5:07
4.	Third Class Steerage – Titanic (traditional, performed by Joohyun Park)	3:47
5.	Rose – Titanic (James Horner / vocls by Kristi Holden)	2:56
6.	Titanic Trot – Time Tunnel Pilot (“Rendezvous with Yesterday”) (John Williams)	3:47
7.	The Portrait (Piano Sketch) – Titanic (James Horner / solo piano by Dan Redfeld)	4:45
8.	Doing the Latest Rag – Titanic: A New Musical (Maury Yeston / vocals by Tom Schmid, Eric Bradley, Scott Dicken, Fletcher Sheridan)	3:24
9.	No Moon – Titanic: A New Musical (Maury Yeston / vocals by Michael Lichtenauer)	3:02
10.	Theme from SOS Titanic – S.O.S. Titanic (Howard Blake)	2:33
11.	We’ll Meet Tomorrow – Titanic: A New Musical (Maurey Yeston / vocals by Greg Whipple, Christina Harding, Fletcher Sheridan, Michael Lichenauer)	2:45
12.	Nearer, My God, to Thee (Traditional, arranged by Steven Ganci)	5:46
13.	Suite from Raise the Titanic – Raise The Titanic (John Barry)	6:18
14.	Hymn to the Sea – Titanic (James Horner / vocals by Kristi Holden)	6:25
15.	My Heart Will Go On (Vocalise) – Titanic (James Horner / vocals by Kristi Holden)	5:51
16.	BONUS TRACK: Raise the Titanic

On April 10th, it will be the 100th Anniversary of the maiden voyage of the RMS Titanic.

And to celebrate the anniversary, BUYSOUNDTRAX Records will be releasing an album featuring a collection of new recordings performed by the White Star Chamber Orchestra and chorus conducted by Dan Redfeld.  The digital version will be released on April 2nd, while the album release featuring extensive liner notes from the music of the production will be released on April 10th.  The first 100 copies purchased from the BUYSOUNDTRAX website will be autographed by Music Director Dan Redfeld and vocalist Zoe Poledouris Roche.

“We’ve taken these film scores and re-imagined them into a different kind of compilation album,” said the album’s producer, Ford A. Thaxton. “This is a very different take on it. We wanted to do something that would have a timeless quality to it.”

The album features versions of music composed by James Horner for the film “Titanic”, including Zoe Poledouris Roche’s version of “My Heart Will Go On”.  Also, included on this album is a version of Howard Blake’s “S.O.S. Titanic”, a version of John Barry’s “Raise the Titanic”, a version of John Williams “The Titanic Trot” from the TV series “The Time Tunnel” and selections from Maury Yeston’s Tony winning musical “Titanic”.  Also, included are two historical tracks, an arrangement of traditional Irish music (by Joohyun Park) including “Nearer, My God, To Thee”, the song that was reported to have been performed by a band during the sinking of the Titanic.

Dan Redfeld was chosen to compose the music for this album.  Redfeld said,  “I’m not sure I know what the attraction was,” he said. “It’s the fact that it was the grandest ship in the world and it hits an iceberg and sinks and 1500 people go down. It’s the whole series of little events that lead to this massive catastrophe. It’s the people who stayed at their posts, particularly the stokers under the ship who kept the ship lit and the band playing on until the last moments. I don’t know if that kind of character exists anymore. There is just such incredible drama about it and I think it’s what gets to people about it. The epic-ness of the disaster, for a composer, evokes passionate music.”

Having listened to the recently released “Titanic: Collector’s Anniversary Edition”, I can easily say that the “Titanic: An Epic Musical Voyage” soundtrack is a wonderful and fresh take on the music of James Horner but also the music of other composers and musicians.  As Redfeld mentioned, a major disaster such as the sinking of the Titanic can evoke passionate music and rather cover the music that James Horner and others have done, they chose to do their own re-imagining of the music.  And for some, they may enjoy the versions presented in this album over the original.

I enjoyed listening to “Southampton/Take Her to Sea, Mr. Murdoch”, “Rose” and even the Vocalise version of “My Heart Will Go On”.  Actress and Looner vocalist Zoe Peledouris Roche’s version of “My Heart Will Go On” was an interesting and different take on the Celine Dion classic.

I absolutely love the musical songs such as “We’ll Meet Tomorrow” and “Doing the Latest Rag” and I have never watched the original musicals, so it was quite entertaining to hear this music and other tracks from the musical.

Overall, “Titanic: An Epic Musical Voyage” is an album with diverse music, featuring a balance of beautiful instrumental and vocal tracks, but if anything, a wonderful accompaniment to those who have purchased the “Titanic: Collector’s Anniversary Edition” album or for those wanting music that is fresh, enjoyable and different from the original versions.

“Titanic: An Epic Musical Voyage” is recommended!

 

TITANIC: Collector’s Anniversary Edition (a J!-ENT World Groove Album Review)

With the 100th anniversary of when the Titanic set sail and the release of the popular James Cameron film “TITANIC in 3D”, “TITANIC: Collector’s Anniversary Edition” is a wonderful set which includes the remastered version of the two original soundtracks plus two new additional soundtracks featuring music from the 1900′s.  A wonderful set for “Titanic” fans featuring the fantastic music of James Horner and also for fans of ragtime and classic jazz music.  “TITANIC: Collector’s Anniversary Edition” is highly recommended!

TITLE: TITANIC: Collector’s Anniversary Edition

LABEL: Sony Classical

DURATION: DISC ONE: TITANIC – Music from the Motion Picture (1:16:35), DISC TWO: I Salonisti: Gentlemen, It Has Been a Privilege Playing with You Tonight (57:39), DISC THREE: Back to TITANIC (1:16:35), DISC FOUR: Popular Music from the Titanic Era (43:16)

RELEASE DATE: March 26, 2012

DISC ONE: TITANIC – Music from the Motion Picture
1. Never an Absolution
2. Distant Memories
3. Southampton
4. Rose
5. Leaving Port
6. “Take Her to Sea, Mr. Murdoch”
7. “Hard to Starboard”
8. Unable to Stay, Unwilling to Leave
9. The Sinking
10. Death of Titanic
11. A Promise Kept
12. A Life So Changed
13. An Ocean of Memories
14. My Heart Will Go On (performed by Celine Dion)
15. Hymn to the Sea

DISC TWO: I Salonisti: Gentlemen, It Has Been a Privilege Playing with You Tonight
1. Valse Septembre
2. Marguerite Waltz
3. Wedding Dance
4. Poet and Peasant
5. Blue Danube
6. Song Without Words
7. Estudiantina
8. Vision of Salome
9. Titsy Bitsy Girl
10. Alexander’s Ragtime Band
11. Sphinx
12. Barcarole
13. Orpheus
14. Song of Autumn
15. Nearer My God to Thee

Included only on TITANIC: Collector’s Anniversary Edition

DISC THREE: Back to TITANIC
1. Titanic Suite
2. An Irish Party In Third Class (performed by Gaelic Storm)
3. Alexander’s Ragtime Band (performed by I Salonisti)
4. The Portrait
5. Jack Dawson’s Luck
6. A Building Panic
7. Nearer My God to Thee (performed by I Salonisti)
8. Come Josephine, In My Flying Machine (performed by Máire Brennan)
9. Lament
10. A Shore Never Reached
11. My Heart Will Go On – with dialogue from the film (performed by Celine Dion)
12. Epilogue: The Deep And Timeless Sea

DISC FOUR: Popular Music from the Titanic Era
1. It’s a Long Way to Tipperary (John McCormack)
2. Let Me Call You Sweetheart (Halfway House Dance Orchestra)
3. Vilia (Guy Lombardo & His Orchestra)
4. My Gal Sal (Chick Bullock & His Levee Loungers)
5. Oh! You Beautiful Doll (Chuck Foster & His Orchestra)
6. Martha (Adrian Rollinoi Trio)
7. In the Shade of the Old Apple Tree (Duke Ellington & His Orchestra)
8. Waiting at the Church (Beatrice Kay)
9. Frasquita Serenade (John Kirby & His Orchestra)
10. Shine On, Harvest Moon (Hal Kemp)
11. From the Land of the Sky Blue Water (Mildred Bailey & Her Orchestra)
12. Loch Lomond (Maxine Sullivan & Her Orchestra)
13. A Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight (Miff Mole’s Molers)

For anyone who loved the 1997 James Cameron film “Titanic” or anyone who fell in love with the film’s music soundtrack, will definitely want to pick up “Titanic: Collector’s Anniversary Edition”.

Featuring four fantastic soundtracks including the wonderful compositions by James Horner, the classic hit “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion plus more wonderful music that captures the essence of the film but also music of that era.

As a fan of the film, I have watched “TITANIC” multiple times on the big screen when it was first released.  And after the first time I watched the film, I traveled store after store many distances away just to find the music soundtrack.  I loved the movie, I loved the soundtrack but at the time, there was only one soundtrack which featured James Horner’s wonderful music but yet, I admit to feeling a bit deflated because the film had so much music and little over a dozen made it into the original soundtrack.  To put it bluntly, the best musical score from the film was not included on the first soundtrack.    Also, the version of “My Heart Will Go On” was the album version and not the version that was played on the radio or on the music video.

The following year, a second soundtrack titled “Back to TITANIC” was released.  And this was the soundtrack that many people wanted to hear. The moving, beautiful and emotional score by James Horner along with the London Symphony Orchestra and the Choirsters of King’s College, Cambridge.  The soundtrack would feature the music that people remember from the film.

The second soundtrack also included clips from the film especially the dialogue mix of “My Heart Will Go On” which was played on multiple radio stations and on MTV and VH1 (back when they used to show music videos).

But there was so much more music from the film that have yet to be released and here we are 15-years-later to celebrate the 100th year anniversary that the Titanic set sail (April 10, 1912) and also the April 4th theatrical release of “TITANIC in 3D”.  And for many film fans, seeing what James Cameron was able to accomplish with “AVATAR”, many wonder how far he can take “TITANIC”, a film released in 1997, to the 3D realm.  But we’ll have to wait and see.

For now, the good news is that with the release of “TITANIC in 3D”, that means a possible revisit to the music of “TITANIC” and fortunately, hearing the music that was missing from the film.

And let’s just say that my eyes were open wide when I found out that  Sony Classical would be releasing “TITANIC: Anniversary Edition” and “TITANIC: Collector’s Anniversary Edition” on March 26th.

Both soundtracks includes remastered versions of the original “TITANIC” soundtrack with extensive bonus material. The Collector’s Anniversary Edition will include two new additional soundtracks (“I Salonisti: Gentleman, It Has Been a Privilege Playing With You Tonight” and “Back to TITANIC”).  Including the original “TITANIC” soundtrack (which sold over 25 million units worldwide) and “BACK TO TITANIC” (which sold over 3 million units worldwide).

While I am reviewing a digital version of the soundtrack provided to me by Sony Classical, I am unable to comment on what extensive bonus material the soundtracks come with, aside from the fact that I do know that 4 bonus vintage Titanic luggage stickers would be included.

Other than that, I’m going to focus on the two new soundtracks that have been released in the “Titanic: Collector’s Anniversary Edition”. As for the remastered original two soundtracks, I will say that the primary difference is that the recordings are much more pronounced and louder than the original CD soundtracks.

But for those who loved the film, it’s one thing to get the remastered versions of the first two original soundtracks but the Collector’s Anniversary Edition is the version I recommend.

The first new soundtrack included on this new edition features “I Salonisti: Gentlemen, It Has Been a Privilege Playing with you Tonight”.  For those who remember the 5-piece quintet that appeared in the film, this soundtrack features their music.  And yes, I Salonisti was not a group of actors hired to play musicians in the film, it’s an actual band that formed back in 1983 and is known for playing serious and light chamber music from every period and variety of musical styles.

For “Titanic”, James Cameron did a lot of research into the music that would be played on the ship and he hired I Salonisti to record authentic music from the period, specifically music that all bands from the White Star Line would have been required to perform when hired to play as employees of the prestigious cruise fleet.

Along with arranger and music historian/advisor John Altman, he oversaw the process and was tasked with taking the White Star Line official playlist, arrange and recording those songs for the film.  Two of the marquee songs on the disc “Nearer My God to Thee” which was the last song played by the band as the ship went down and “Song of Autumn” which does not appear in the film but it is rumored to be the actual song that the band played when Titanic went down.

For me, the inclusion of “I Salonisti: Gentlemen, It Has Been a Privilege Playing with you Tonight” is remarkable as I Salonisti was one of my memories of the film.  To hear their music played, the violin and bass, the emotions that you feel from their music is fantastic. From the beautiful piano and violin playing in harmony for “Valse Septembre” and “Marguerite Waltz”, to the violins that capture your ears with “Wedding Dance” and “Blue Danube”.

And for any hardcore fans who were moved by their music, the addition of this soundtrack is wonderful.

The fourth soundtrack “Popular Music from the Titanic Era” has become my new favorite and a soundtrack that I have listened to many times.  With the fourth soundtrack, songs from the early 1900′s are featured. It’s important to note that some songs on the album are later songs made after 1912.

The first track features “It’s a Long Way to Tipperary” from John McCormack.  This British music hall song was released in 1912 and was a popular song that people listened to during the First World War and is a song by Jack Judge who wrote about his Irish family and his grandparents from Tipperary.  While the song came out in 1912, the version included is the 1914 version and is the most popular version sung by McCormack.

“Let Me Call You Sweetheart” is the second track on the album and is performed by the Halfway House Dance Orchestra.  This song was quite popular back in 1910.  The version featured on this soundtrack is an instrumental version.

The third track is “Vilia” performed by Guy Lombardo and his orchestra.  Guy Lombardo was a popular Canadian-American bandleader and violinist and was quite successful during the 1920′s.

“My Gal Sal” is the fourth track on the album and is performed by Chick Bullock & His Levee Loungers and the song is about 1890′s composer and songwriter Paul Dresser about his singer Sally Elliott.  The story was made into a biopic in 1942 by 20th Century Fox and starred Rita Hayworth and Victor Mature.

The fifth track “Oh! You Beautiful Doll” is performed by Chuck Foster & His Orchestra.  The popular 1911 ragtime song was known for being the first to use a twelve-bar opening.

The sixth track “Martha” is performed by the Adrian Rollinoi Trio and is a fun guitar/xylophone track.

“In the Shade of the Old Apple Tree” is the seventh track on the album and was a popular song from 1905 originally written by Harry Williams and Egbert Van Alstyne.  This version is performed by Duke Ellington & His Orchestra.

The seventh track “Waiting at the Church” is a popular and humorous British music hall song originally sung by Vesta Victoria and about a woman who gave her fiance to buy her a ring or house but left her waiting at the church and finds out that he is married.  This version is performed by singer/vaudevilian/actress Beatrice Kay.

“Frasquita Serenade” is the eighth song in the soundtrack and features a performance by John Kirby & His Orchestra.  The song was released back in 1923.

The ninth song on the album is “Shine On, Harvest Moon”, the popular early 1900′s song originally made by married vaudeville team Nora Bayes and Jack Norworth.  This version features a performance by bandleader Hal Kemp.

The tenth track is “From the Land of the Sky-Blue Water” performed by American jazz singer, Mildred Bailey & Her Orchestra.  The original version of the song was released back in 1909 and is based on an Omaha love song collected by Alice C. Fletcher.  The song is probably best known for its performance by Groucho Marx in the 1940 film “Go West”, but this version is possibly a 1930′s version (during the height of Mildred Bailey’s career).

“Loch Lomond” (or best known as “The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond”) is the eleventh track on the album performed by Maxine Sullivan & Her Orchestra.  This song was made in 1841 and is a well-known traditional Scottish song.  This version of the song was performed by popular American jazz vocalist Maxine Sullivan in 1937 and a song that she is best known for.

The final track on this album is a violin version of “A Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight”, an American ragtime song composed back in 1896 and was used by the American military at the turn of the 20th century.  This version of the song  is performed by jazz trombonist and band leader, Miff Mole via his band Miff Mole’s Molers.

“TITANIC: Collector’s Anniversary Edition” is a wonderful collection of music from the film and also a collection of music that would have been played in 1912 on the Titanic.  While not all the music from the movie is included in this anniversary collection, including the popular version of “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion (note: you do get the album version of “My Heart Will Go On” and dialogue mix version, which is the popular version mixed with audio dialogue between Rose and Jack), the fact that you do get the additional two soundtracks is fantastic!

For me, as a fan of ragtime and jazz music from that era, I was pleased with the two new soundtracks featuring I Salonisti but also the collection of music from the 1900′s as well.

As for the original two soundtracks, they are remastered and sound much better and louder than the original but what it comes down to is your love for the film and its music.  The first two soundtrack’s capture James Horner’s musical scores while the original two soundtracks is geared to the hardcore fans who want everything.  For me, I loved the film so much that “TITANIC: Collector’s Anniversary Edition” with the two additional soundtracks was a no-brainer.  But it all comes down to preference as for those who just want the original two soundtracks will be fine with the 2-CD “TITANIC: Anniversary Edition”.

Overall, with the 100th anniversary of when the Titanic set sail and the release of the popular James Cameron film “TITANIC in 3D”, “TITANIC: Collector’s Anniversary Edition” is a wonderful set which includes the remastered version of the two original soundtracks plus two new additional soundtracks featuring music from the 1900′s.  A wonderful set for “Titanic” fans featuring the fantastic music of James Horner and also for fans of ragtime and classic jazz music.  “TITANIC: Collector’s Anniversary Edition” is highly recommended!

 

The Iron Lady: Music from the Motion Picture (a J!-ENT World Groove Album Review)

“The Iron Lady: Music from the Motion Picture” is soundtrack that is well-composed and consistent for the most part of the soundtrack.  I loved the use of strings, brass and percussion throughout the entire soundtrack, although “Community Charge” and the sound of electric guitar churning, seemed a bit out of place.  But the addition of “Shall We Dance?”, “Casta Diva” and “Prelude No. 1 in C major, BWV 846″ was a great addition to the soundtrack.  A good soundtrack overall.

TITLE: The Iron Lady: Music from the Motion Picture

LABEL: Sony Classical

DURATION: 54:42

RELEASE DATE: December 27, 2011

1. Soldiers of the Queen
2. MT
3. Grover’s Daughter
4. Grand Hotel
5. Swing Parliament
6. Eyelash
7. Shall We Dance? (from “The King & I”) – By Deborah Kerr, Marni Nixon and Yul Bryner
8. Denis
9. The Great in Great Britain
10. Airey Neave
11. Discord and Harmony
12. The Twins
13. Nation of Shopkeepers
14. Fiscal Responsibility
15. Crisis of Confidence
16. Community Charge
17. Casta Diva [From "Norma"] by Maria Callas; Orchestra Del Teatro Alla Scala; Tullio Serafin
18. The Difficult Decisions
19. Exclusion Zone
20. Statecraft
21. Steady the Buffs
22. Prelude No. 1 in C major, BWV 846

Margaret Thatcher, prime minister of the United Kingdom from 1979 to1990 is best known for her strict conservative policies and her hard line against the trade unions which have earned her the nickname “The Iron Lady”.

While many who grew up during that time were familiar with her impact in politics and society, there are those who recognized her efforts of smashing the barriers for women.  A complex woman who is known for her virtue but a woman who also is know for making decisions that have angered some of her countrymen.

In 2011, the film “The Iron Lady” directed by Phyllida Lloyd (“Macbeath”, “Mamma Mia!”, “Gloriana”) and a screenplay written by Abi Morgan (“Shame”, “Tsunami: The Aftermath”, “Sex Traffic”) and starring Meryl Streep (“Kramer vs Kramer”, “Julie & Julia”, “The Devil Wears Prada”) and Jim Broadbent (“Gangs of New York”, “Moulin Rouge!”, “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”).

The film has received positive reviews, including recognition for Meryl Streep’s performance as Margaret Thatcher.  “The Iron Lady” focuses on Margaret Thatcher’s life from the past and the 17 days leading up to the Falklands War in 1982.  An intimate portrait of the first and only female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and one of the most famous and influential women of the 20th Century.The film focuses about power and the price that is paid for power.

To capture the general mood of Thatcher’s life and leadership as prime minister, the composer selected to create the music for the film is Thomas Newman (“Wall-E”, “The Shawshank Redemption”, “American Beauty”).

First let’s discuss the music not by Thomas Newman.  Included are “The Iron Lady: Music from the Motion Picture” begins with “Soldiers of the Queen Regimental March” performed by the Military Band of the Queen’s Regiment.  A short and live performance.  Also included are “Shall We Dance?”, the classic song from the film “The King & I” performed by Deborah Kerr, Marni Nixon and Yul Brynner.  The opera track “Casta Diva” from “Norma” which is performed by Maria Callas, Orchestra Del Teatro Alla Scala and Tullio Serafin.  The soundtrack concludes with a beautiful piano melody by Olli Mustonen titled “Prelude No. 1 in C Major, BWV 846).

As for the music by Thomas Newman, you have a range of orchestral and synth created music.  Many start out towards the short duration under a minute long but then you get beautiful and powerful music such as the strings-driven track “Swing Parliament”, the lively “The Great in Great Britain” and the brass-driven track of “Discord and Harmony”.

And of course, you get into tracks that show the more darker side of Thatcher’s life from “Crisis in Confidence” featuring the percussion and brass heavy track, the rock n’ roll “Community Charge” (which seemed a bit out of place in the entire soundtrack), the looming slow to mid-tempo synth and percussion track “Exclusion Zone” and return to strings with “Statecraft” and “Steady the Buffs”.

The CD soundtrack booklet comes with images from the film, production credits and track listing.

“The Iron Lady: Music from the Motion Picture” is soundtrack that is well-composed and consistent for the most part of the soundtrack.  I loved the use of strings, brass and percussion throughout the entire soundtrack, although “Community Charge” and the sound of electric guitar churning, seemed a bit out of place.  But the addition of “Shall We Dance?”, “Casta Diva” and “Prelude No. 1 in C major, BWV 846″ was a great addition to the soundtrack and the songs that I listened to the most.

A good soundtrack overall.

SHAME: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (a J!-ENT World Groove Album Review)

SHAME: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack captures the elegance of New York City but also the fragility of the mindset of the film’s protagonist.  Featuring a good number of tracks from Glenn Gould and also classics from John Coltrane, Chet Baker and Howlin’ Wolf, the film also incorporates a few early ’80s music as well.

TITLE: SHAME: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

LABEL: Fox Music

DURATION: 1:20:37

RELEASE DATE: December 13, 2011

1. Brandon (Harry Escott)
2. “Aria” – Goldberg Variations – Glenn Gould
3. Genius of Love  – Tom Tom Club
4. I Want Your Love – Chic
5. My Favorite Things – John Coltrane
6. New York, New York “Theme” – Carey Mulligan
7. Let’s Get Lost – Chet Baker
8. Prelude & Fugue No. 10 in E Minor – Glenn Gould
9. “Variation 15 a 1 Clav. Canone alla Quinta” – Goldberg variations – Glenn Gould
10. Unravelling – Harry Escott
11. You Can’t Be Beat – Howlin’ Wall
12. The Problem – Mark Loque
13. Prelude & Fugue No. 16 in G Minor – Glenn Gould
14. End Credits (Harry Escott)

From award winning director Steve McQueen (“Hunger”, “Fela”) comes a new daring and audacious film titled “Shame”.

Having been nominated for a good number of awards since it’s premiere, McQueen’s film stars actor Michael Fassbender (“Inglorious Basterds”, “X-Men: First Class”, “300″) and actress Carey Mulligan (“Never Let Me Go”, “Drive”, “An Education”, “Pride and Prejudice”).

The film revolves around Brandon (Fassbender), a lonely 30-year-old New Yorker who is addicted to sex.

Whenever he is alone, he is consumed by a world of pornography, sex and masturbation and his whole world is turned upside down when his sister Sissy (Mulligan) comes out of nowhere and barges into his home to live temporarily.

And from that moment on, his life becomes to spiral out of control as he worries that she may find out about his sexual addictions and also he grows impatient as he wants to participate in sexual acts in his condo but wants to hide his dark sexual secrets from his sister.

As for its music, Brandon is a man who prefers to listen to his music via vinyl and because director Steve McQueen is quite fond with the musician Glenn Gould, Gould’s fantastic music is fully featured in the soundtrack.

The “Shame” soundtrack also features a few ’80s hits such as Blondie’s “Rapture”, Chic’s “I Want Your Love”, Tom Tom Club’s “Genius of Love” and also classics such as John Coltrane’s “My Favorite Things”, you get Chet Baker’s jazzy “Let’s Get Lost” (Album Version), the electric blues of Howlin Wolf’s “You Can’t Be Beat”, plus Mulligan’s solo rendition of “New York, New York”.  As well as the electronic synth track “The Problem” by Mark Loque.

Also featured are three tracks by composer Harry Escott (“A Mighty Heart”, “Hard Candy”, “The Road to Guantanamo”For Escott’s music, featuring a 50-piece orchestra and recording the music at Abbey Road, the music by Escott is a bit more somber and dangerous as can be heard with the opening track “Brandon”, “Unravelling” and the ending credits.

While the ’80s music featured in the soundtrack is great for those who are nostalgic of the music, from the jazzy tracks which I enjoyed, it worked well on this soundtrack especially with the enigmatic music poet, Glenn Gould’s piano music featured throughout the soundtrack.

I can listen to “Goldberg Variations; BWV 988: Aria”, “Prelude & Fugue No. 10 in E minor, BWV 855: Prelude”, “Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 15 a 1 Clav. Canone alla Quinta. Andante [1981 Version]” and “Prelude & Fugue No. 16 in G minor, BWV 885: Praeludium” over and over again!

But the soundtrack for “SHAME” is one of those soundtracks that people either like the inconsistency of the tracks or they like only certain songs.  While Gould’s music, Coltrane, Baker, Howlin’ Wolf and Mulligan’s “New York, New York” theme works quite well for the overall soundtrack, as well as the inclusion of Harry Escott’s compositions, the ’80s pop tracks and Mark Loque’s electronic track, do stick out.

But it works, especially for the context of the movie.   To capture the feeling of New York, its elegance but also to capture his fragility and his deviant mindset.

So, “SHAME: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack” is one of those mixed-track compilations of music that I found myself listening to quite a bit for Gould, Baker and Coltrane and also Mulligan’s rendition of “New York, New York”.

The soundtrack comes with production credits and a single-pager of filmmaker Steve McQueen discussing the music of the film.

Overall, if you enjoyed the music from “SHAME”, the soundtrack does provide quite a bit of easy listening and enjoyable music.  As well as some classic ’80s hits.  While, it would have been nice to have more compositions by Harry Escott and even more Gould, for a soundtrack featuring diverse styles of music, it’s a good soundtrack, a bit inconsistent, but it works!

The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn – Music from the Motion Picture (a J!-ENT World Groove Album Review)

John Williams managed to capture an uplifting, adventurous Odyssey in his music for “The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn – Music from the Motion Picture” with great efficacy.  If you love the film or enjoyed the comic series, you will definitely love this magnificent, adventurous soundtrack from the great American composer, John Williams.

TITLE: The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn – Music from the Motion Picture

LABEL: Sony Classical

DURATION: 1:05:32

RELEASE DATE: December 13, 2011

1. The Adventures of Tintin
2. Snowy’s theme
3. The Secret o the Scrolls
4. Introducing the Thompsons and Snowy’s Chase
5. Marlinspike Hall
6. Escape from the Karaboudjan
7. Sir Francis and the Unicorn
8. Captain Haddock Takes the Oars
9. Red Rackham’s Curse and the Treasure
10. Capturing Mr. Silk
11. The Flight to Bagghar
12. The Milanese Nightinggale
13. Presenting Bianca Castafiore/Renee Fleming
14. The Pursuit of the Falcon
15. The Captains Counsel
16. The Clash of the Cranes
17. The Return to Marlinspike Hall and Finale
18. The Adventure Continues

Back in 1929, Belgian artist Georges Remi aka “Hergé”, would create a comic book series titled “Les Adventures de Tintin” (The Adventures of Tintin) which was first published in the Belgian Newspaper “Le XXe Siecle”.

The comic book series would prove to be successful that it was made into several books, led to a Tintin magazine and also received adaptations for film, radio, television and theater.

In fact, the comic book series was so popular that it appeared in many countries worldwide in more than 80 languages and over 350 million copies of the books were sold worldwide.

While an animated television series was shown in the U.S. back in the early 90′s, Steven Spielberg who was a fan of the comic series acquired the rights to “The Adventures of Tintin” following Herge’s death in 1983 and re-optioned in 2002.  Filming began in 2008 and together with producer Peter Jackson (“The Lord of the Rings” trilogy), will be releasing the first film titled “The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn” in Dec. 2011.

The film is an American performance captured 3D film that is based on the three original comic books: “The Crab with the Golden Claws”, “The Secret of the Unicorn” and “Red Rackham’s Treasure”.

Interesting is the fact that Spielberg has two films coming out in December in the U.S., “The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn” and “War Horse” and keeping up with tradition, collaborating with composer John Williams (known for composing the “Star Wars”, “Indiana Jones”, “Harry Potter” films) and who has worked with Spielberg for 40-years.

The film is Spielberg’s first animated film that he had directed and the first one John Williams had scored.  And for Williams, the goal was to go for a more traditional sound.

“The Adventures of Tintin” features an adventurous Belgian reporter named Tintin who goes on adventures with his white fox terrier named Snowy.    The cases he takes on are typically dangerous and is often seen saving the day.  Joining Tintin is his best friend Captain Archibald Haddock, a respectable character who does things without thinking at times.

And then there are the two bumbling detectives named Thomson and Thomson who are the comical relief of the series that are often after Tintin (as he is always in the middle of a crime scene in some way or form) or the criminals.

For the composition, John Williams went for a more jazzy score which actually fits the style of “The Adventures of Tintin”.  I have read the comic books and have watched and also reviewed the animated series.  Because the film takes place in Europe (note: the movie has not come out in America at this time but the comic and animated series had Tintin also going to Asia, so I’m not sure if that is featured in the film) and because the storyline is rather adventurous, almost in a “Young Indiana Jones” type of way and felt that Williams was able to capture adventure and free spirit through his music for this film.

Aside from the main theme of “The Adventures of Tintin” and “Snowy’s Theme” which were very appropriate, the theme that I enjoyed is “Introducing the Thompsons and Snowy’s Chase”.  Because these two investigators are somewhat bumbling misfits at times, the music features that bubbliness.  But also manages to capture a more darker theme with “Snowy’s Chase”.

Tracks such as “Marlinspike Hall” manages to have this thrilling adventurous side with the strings and transitions to another adventurous track with “Escape from the Karaboudjan” which elevates with its action theme as it utilizes the brass to emphasize risk in the adventure.

And while the majority of the tracks showcase adventure, my favorite track would have to be “The Milanese Nightingale” which is more elegant, Parisian-style and romantic.  And then you have the operatic track “Presenting Bianca Castafiore/Renee Fleming”.

When it comes to the adventure side of the music, Steven Spielberg said, “John’s stirring theme for our title character Tintin is perfectly suited to a young reporter who somehow always becomes the story.  The second most important character in the Herge series is the oftentimes drunken sea captain Archibald Haddock, and for him, John created a theme that sounds like it’s from the bottom of a bottle – until Haddock’s redemption, that is – when his theme sobers into one that is lovely and noble.”

The CD insert comes with production credits, a word from Steven Spielberg and images from the film.

Overall, “The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn – Music from the Motion Picture” features a sound that seems to connect with my images of the characters from the comic series.  I can imagine these adventures and the music being played in my head, despite the film not having been shown in America yet.  But one thing that I noticed with John Williams is his uncanny ability to adapt through images, through scenery and because the storyline of “Tintin” has a strong history and familiarity worldwide, it was important to capture that adventure, to capture the journey that Tintin, Snow and Captain Haddock take part in because there is plenty of action in this storyline and for this young reporter, he is often at the scene of criminal activity and is often in trouble or often trying to elude from authorities (mainly Thompson and Thompson) while trying to find the true criminal.

I wondered how the approach to the music would be and for the most part, John Williams managed to capture an uplifting, adventurous Odyssey that these characters must take in order to solve these mysteries.  Once again, I can see how these images play in my mind and seeing how the music played out.  May it be images in my mind of Tintin sneaking inside a ship, him, Haddock and little Snowy walking the desert and then transitioning to the search for treasure after Tintin purchases an old model ship that others want to get their hands on.  And just listening to the music, it’s that sense of adventure that Williams captures with great efficacy.

Overall, “The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn – Music from the Motion Picture” is an adventurous soundtrack that compliments the overall theme of “The Adventures of Tintin” and once again, John Williams and orchestra manage to do a magnificent job in their performance of the music.

Recommended!

War Horse: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (a J!-ENT World Groove Album Review)

John Williams and Steven Spielberg collaborate once again for a wonderfully crafted score by John Williams.  A beautiful soundtrack that manages to capture the British landscape but moreso, creating a wonderful music experience for its viewers and listeners.  Definitely recommended!

TITLE: War Horse

LABEL: Sony Classical

DURATION: 1:05:28

RELEASE DATE: November 21, 2011

1. Dartmoor, 1912
2. The Auction
3. Bringing Joey Home, and Bonding
4. Learning the Call
5. Seeding, And Horse vs. Car
6. Plowing
7. Ruined Crop, and Going to War
8. The Charge and Capture
9. The Desertion
10. Joey’s New Friends
11. Pulling the Cannon
12. The Death of Topthorn
13. No Man’s Land
14. The Reunion
15. Remembering Emilie, and Finale
16. The Homecoming

In 1982, Michael Morpurgo wrote the children’s fiction novel “War Horse”, a story set during the outbreak of World War I.

The book will receive its film adaptation courtesy of Steven Spielberg and is set for release in theaters on Dec. 25th.  The film reunites Spielberg with composer John Williams known for creating the soundtracks for the “Star Wars” films and “Harry Potter” films.  But Spielberg and Williams have worked together since 1975 with the film “Jaws”, “Schindler’s List”, “E.T. the Extra Terrestrial”, “Jurassic Park” and the “Indiana Jones” films and the two have had a unique relationship as Williams music is known to set the mood for a scene and has the most recognizable film scores in the history of motion pictures.

So, it’s no surprise that Spielberg has reunited with John Williams for two of his films: “War Horse” and “The Adventures of Tin Tin” (both to be released in Dec. 2011) and continues on with their 40-year collaboration.

“War Horse” is story about Joey, the horse that is loved by young Albert but with World War I, the horse is sold to the cavalry and shipped to France.

Joey is ridden by Captain Nicholls is killed and the horse faces war, death and disease.  Meanwhile, throughout the years, as young Albert has now grown up to become a young man that enlists in the British Army, Albert takes part in a dangerous mission to get his horse back and bring him home.

The film marks a new beginning for Steven Spielberg.  One, creating a film about a horse, as the main character and portraying him at various ages.  The film also marks Spielberg’s first time cutting the film digitally.  But with the music, it must be inspired by the film, primarily of its British landscapes and sure enough, “War Horse: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack” manages to capture that feel of adventure but also the horse as it goes through its adventures.  Williams approach was to utilize brass instruments.

Songs on the soundtrack that manage to capture that feeling of adventure in British land are tracks like “Plowing”, a more menacing sound with “The Charge and Capture”, the escape by Joey as he goes to look for his horse via “The Desertion” and once again with “No Man’s Land”.

The brass is the key to the music of “War Horse”, creating emotion and feeling of the horse trough the ages.  Steven Spielberg said in the booklet notes of William’s composition, “I feel that John has made a special gift to me of this music, which was inspired not only by my film but also by my many of the picturesque settings of the poet William Wordsworth, whose vivid descriptions of the British landscape inspired much of what you’re going to hear.  I’m not sure what I can give John in return, other than a promise of more films to come…for as many more years as we both can imagine!”.

The CD booklet features production credits, a note from Steven Spielberg plus images from the film.

Overall, “War Horse: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack” is a well-crafted score by John Williams, one of the great American composers who creates not only just music that matches what he is seen on screen but most of all, creating an enchanting listening experience that fans of his music have expected and have constantly received for many decades.

A beautiful soundtrack that is definitely recommended!

My week with Marilyn: Music from the Motion Picture (a J!-ENT World Groove Album Review)

“My week with Marilyn: Music from the Motion Picture” features a delightful soundtrack with songs wonderfully composed by Conrade Pope, beautifully sung by Michelle Williams and beautiful piano playing by Lang Lang. 

TITLE: My week with Marilyn: Music from the Motion Picture

LABEL: Sony Classical

DURATION: 58:40

RELEASE DATE: November 29, 2011

1. Marilyn’s theme – Conrad Pope
2. ‘When love goes wrong, Nothin’ Goes Right’ & ‘Heat Wave’ – Michelle Williams
3. Colin Runs off to the the Circus – Conrad Pope
4. Colin Joins the Circus/Mr Jacobs – Conrad Pope
5. Driving through Pinewood – Lang Lang
6. Paparazzi – Conrad Pope
7. Colin and Vivian – Conrad Pope
8. Memories Are Made Of This – Dean Martin
9. Rushes – Conrad Pope
10. Lucy – Conrad Pope
11. Uno, Dos, Tres – La Tropicana Orchestra
12. Arthur and Marilyn – Conrad Pope
13. Marilyn Alone – Conrad Pope
14. Arthur’s Notebook – Conrad Pope
15. Vivian Screens Marilyn – Conrad Pope
16. The Getaway – Conrad Pope
17. You Stepped Out Of A Dream – Nat King Cole
18. Eton Schoolyard Conrad Pope
19. Autumn Leaves – Nat King Cole
20. Overdose – Conrad Pope
21. Colin’s Heartbreak – Conrad Pope
22. Colin and Marilyn – Conrad Pope
23. It’s a Wrap, I found a Dream – Michelle Williams
24. Such Stuff That Dreams Are Made Of – Conrad Pope
25. Remembering Marilyn – Conrad Pope
26. That Old Black Magic – Michelle Williams

One highly anticipated film to come out this winter is the British drama “My Week with Marilyn”, an adaptation of Colin Clark’s two books “The prince, the showgirl and me: the Colin Clark Diaries” (1995) and “My week with Marilyn” (2000).

Colin Clark worked as an assistant director on Laurence Olivier’s film “The Prince and the Showgirl” (1957), which starred Olivier and actress Marilyn Monroe.  Clark would write about his experience working on the film via a diary featured in the book.  During the time, Marilyn Monroe was recently married to playwright Arthur Miller.  But while everything was quite detailed in that book, one week is missing.

That one week was then written in Clark’s “My week with Marilyn” in which Colin Clark alleges to have had a relationship with the actress.

In the film adaptation, the film is directed by Simon Curtis (“Five Days”, “David Copperfield”) with a screenplay by Adrian Hodges (“David Copperfield”, “Primeval”, “The Lost World”) and would star actress Michelle Williams (“Dawson’s Creek”, “Brokeback Mountain”, “Shutter Island”) as Marilyn Monroe and Eddie Redmayne (“The Good Shepherd”, “Powder Blue”) as Colin Clark.

The music for the film is composed and conducted by Conrad Pope (“Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl”, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”, “Star Wars: Episode I: The Phantom Menace), “Marilyn’s Theme” by Alexandre Desplat (“The King’s Speech”, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button”, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1″) and would feature piano soloist Lang Lang and also music featuring the vocals of Michelle Williams.

To imagine the context of what Colin Clark is writing about, it’s important to note that Clark’s diary showed how much he disliked Monroe, how critical he was about her Hollywood look, her work ethic and then of course, the nine days missing from his first book.  A week that he alleges to have had an intimate relationship with an already ailing Marilyn Monroe in Sept. 1957, Monroe would die in an accidental overdoes in 1962.

While debate will always continue if whether or not Colin Clark’s memoir is indeed factual (Clark passed away in 2002), so far many people who have viewed the film has received positive reviews from critics.

As for the soundtrack, after repeated listening of the tracks, my opinion of the music is positive as I felt this is one classy, smooth and entertaining album.

First, Michelle Williams who did a fantastic job as playing Marilyn Monroe, also does a remarkable job performing the tracks such as “When Love Goest Wrong, Nothing Goe’s Right” and “Heat Wave”, another surprising track is Williams rendition of “It’s a Wrap” and “I Found a Dream”.  A beautiful song featuring Williams vocals and Lang Lang’s piano playing.  And a surprise for me was to see William’s cover of “That Old Black Magic”.  After listening to the Louis Prima and Keely Smith version for so many decades, it was interesting to hear a sultrier version by Williams.

Other vocal tracks on this album include Dean Martin’s “Memories are Made of This” and Nat Cole King Trio’s “You Stepped Out of a Dream” and “Autumn Leaves”.   And the instrumental “Uno, Dos, Tres” by Tropicana.  These songs help build upon the believability of the film taking place in the late ’50s.

But it’s Conrad Pope’s compositions that are easy listening.  From its upbeat, adventurous track of “Colin Runs Off to the Circus”, the big band jazzy “Collin Joins the Circus/Mr. Jacobs” and “Eton Schoolyard” to the adventurous string-dominated “Colin and Vivian” to the gentle “Vivian Screens Marilyn”, and of course the more sadder tracks with “Overdose” and “Colin and Marilyn”.  So, there are a good number of tracks that showcase a variety of emotions from Colin Clark’s earlier years, to when he first meets Marilyn, becomes closer to Marilyn and later to reminisce of Marilyn.

Alexandre Desplat has one track which he composed which is “Marilyn’s Theme” featuring beautiful piano playing by Lang Lang.  Lang Lang would be featured in five more tracks which include the beautifully scored “Paparazzi”, the sadder “Marilyn Alone”, working with Michelle Williams for “It’s a Wrap, I found a Dream” and for the closing track instrumental track “Remembering Marilyn”.

Overall, “My week with Marilyn: Music from the Motion Picture” is a soundtrack that provides great balance in songs showcasing the sultry Marilyn Monroe (via Michelle Williams who does a great job with her vocals), the Dean Martin and Nat King Cole tracks were also welcomed additions, and the inclusion of Desplat and Lang Lang were great additions.  But for the most part, Conrad Pope did a wonderful job composing and scoring this film.

“My week with Marilyn: Music from the Motion Picture” features a delightful soundtrack with songs wonderfully composed by Conrade Pope, beautifully sung by Michelle Williams and beautiful piano playing by Lang Lang.

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The Inbetweeners Movie (a J!-ENT World Groove Album Review)

The music soundtrack of “The Inbetweeners” features a balance offering of rock, pop and electronic tracks plus audio clips from the sexually-charged British film.  If you loved the film and loved the music, you’ll want the soundtrack!  

TITLE: The Inbetweeners Movie

LABEL: Sony Music

DURATION: 1:09:23

RELEASE DATE: November 29, 2011

1. Quicksand – Miles Kane
2. No Problemo – Mike Skinner
3. Mental Holiday (From the Inbetweeners Movie) – James Buckley as Jay
4. Gimme Love – The vines
5. Blow [Circut Remix] – Ke$ha
6. Introdce Yourself (From the Inbetweeners Movie) – James Buckley as Jay and Blake Harrison as Neil
7. We No Speak Americano (Radio Edit) – Yolanda Be Cool & DCUP
8. Nothing But Love (Readio Edit) – Axwell feat. Errol Reid
9. Fernando’s theme – Mike Skinner
10. You’re a Virgin (From the Inbetweeners Movie) – Simon Bird and Laura Haddock as Will and Allison
11. Twenty Euros – Mike Skinner
12. Waving Not Drowning – Mike Skinner
13. He Shoots He Scores (From the Inbetweeners Movie) – James Buckley as Jay
14. Clunge in a Barrel – Mike Skinner
15. Twenty Miles – Deer Tick
16. Feel So Close (Benny Benassi Remix) – Calvin Harris
17. Smack in the Balls (From the Inbetweeners Movie) – Joe Thomas as Simon
18. We are Go (feat. Laura Vane) – Mike Skinner, Laura Vane
19. MY,KZ, YR, BF (Grum Remix) – Everything Everything
20. Monatronic 5000 – Mike Skinner
21. Whatever it Takes – The D.O.T.
22. Two Man Job (From the Inbetweeners Movie) – Blake Harrison as Neil
23. Do It – Mike Skinner
24. Party All Night (Sleep All Day)(Album Version) – Sean Kingston
25. Gone Up in Flames – Morning Runner
26. Pussay Patrol – Mike Skinner
27. To the Pussay (From the Inbetweeners Movie) – The Inbetweeners

In the UK, the award-winning, British adult comedy television series “The Inbetweeners” was popular as it featured four Sixth form students (Will McKenzie, Simon Cooper, Jay Cartwright and Neil Sutherland)  as they prepare for their A-level examinations.

The main character Will relocates to a state school after attending private school because of financial problems and he is bullied.  But he manages to meet three new friends as they try to become sociable and talk about them wanting to have sexual exploits.

The three season series (6 episodes each, 2008-2010) ended with the guys finishing school and going their own separate ways.

With series creators Damon Beesley and Iain Morris wanting a fitting ending for the four young men, a movie was developed a film which was released in theaters in the UK in August 2011.

The film focuses on the four young misfits who have finished their A-levels and vacation in Malia, Crete (Greece) to get away from what troubles they are having currently in life.  And while on vacation, the four teens meet Alison, Lucy, Lisa and Jane.  Will these four misfits finally score?

With the release of the film, the soundtrack of “The Inbetweeners Movie” has been released.

The soundtrack features music from The Streets Mike Skinner who provides ten tracks to the soundtrack.  While many are familiar with the hip hop beats of the Streets, for Skinner’s contribution to the soundtrack, most are electronic dance club style of tracks, while the track “Waving not Drowning” uses a piano composition.

The notable tracks on the soundtrack for rock music are former The Rascals frontman Miles Kane with his upbeat rock track “Quicksand”, “The Vines” sexually enthused rock track “Gimme Love” and Deer Ticks “Twenty Miles”and Morning Runner’s “Gone Up in Flames”.

And as those comprise the rock tracks on the soundtrack, there is also pop tracks such as Ke$ha’s Circut Remix of her song “Blow”, the early 2011 popular charting hit “We No Speak Americano (Radio Edit)” from Yolanda Be Cool & DCUP and Sean Kingston’s “Party All Night (Sleep All Day) (Album Version)”.

And then there are the dance tracks such as Axwell feat. Errol Reid’s “Nothing But Love”, Calvin Harris’ “Feel So Close (Benny Benassi Remix)”, Mike Skinner and Laura Vane’s “We Are Go” and Everything Evertyhing’s “MY KZ, YR BF (Grum Remix)”.

Also, included in the soundtrack are seven short audio clips from the film as the guys discuss sex.

The CD insert features several pages of photos from the film and track listing/production credits.

“The Inbetweeners Movie” soundtrack will no doubt entertain fans of the film and it does try to balance rock, pop and electronic music.  But it’s quite subjective of what one wants to hear.  I found myself listening to the rock tracks quite a bit and “We No Speak no Americano (Radio Edit)” most of the time but this is one of those soundtracks that tries to please everyone with a balance of different musical genres.  But overall, a decent soundtrack.

 

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Puss In Boots: Music from the Motion Picture (a J!-ENT World Groove Album Review)

From composer Henry Jackman (“The Dark Knight Returns”, X-Men: First Class”) comes the vibrant, upbeat and energetic “Puss in Boots: Music from the Motion Picture” soundtrack.   Featuring Spanish-themed acoustic guitar music in combination with orchestral adventure-themed compositions, this soundtrack is definitely catch and addictive.  Also, featuring two tracks from the sensational duo Rodrigo Y Gabriela,  fans of the film and the awesome music of  ”Puss in Boots” will definitely want to check out “Puss in Boots: Music from the Motion Picture”!

TITLE: Puss In Boots: Music from the Motion Picture

LABEL: Sony Classical/Dreamworks

DURATION: 1:05:51

RELEASE DATE: November 15, 2011

1. A Bad Kitty
2. One Leche
3. Jack and Jill
4. Holy Frijoles
5. Chasing Tail
6. Diablo Rojo
7. Humpty Dumpty & Kitty Softpaws
8. The Orphanage
9. Honor and Justice
10. That Fateful Night
11. The Wagon Chase
12. Team Effort
13. Planting the Beans
14. The Magic Beanstalk
15. Castle in the Clouds
16. Golden Goose of Legend
17. Hanuman
18. Confronting the Past
19. I Was Always There
20. Kitty-Cat Break-Out
21. The Great Terror
22. Farewell to San Ricardo
23. The Puss Suite
24. The Giant’s Castle

“Puss in Boots” is a CG animated film from 2011 featuring the popular swashbuckling feline character that made his appearance in “Shrek 2″.   The storyline takes place before “Shrek 2″ and features Puss, along with sidekicks Humpty Dumpty and Kitty Softpaws taking on the outlaws,  Jack and Jill.

With the popularity of these Dreamworks animated films, the studio chose composer Henry Jackman (“The Dark Knight”, “X-Men: First Class”, “Monsters vs. Aliens”) to create the music soundtrack for the film.

Which leads us to “Puss In Boots: Music from the Motion Picture” featuring a total of 24 tracks, 22 of the tracks composed by Jackman, while “Diablo Rojo” and “Hanuman” was composed by the Mexican duo Rodrigo y Gabriela (Rodrigo Sanchez and Gabriela Quintero).

While listening to the soundtrack, I have to admit that the first thing that came to mind was “The Mask of Zorro” soundtrack composed by James Horner. Granted, the main character Puss has that similar action style, I’m not surprised that the film utilizes acoustic guitar ala flamenco style, whistling and just that upbeat style.

“A Bad Kitty”, “One Leche”, “Farewell to San Ricardo” are reminiscent to the music of Spaghetti Westerns of Sergio Leone films, you are also treated with the beautiful guitar playing of Rodrigo Y Gabriela.  ”Diablo Rojo”  and “Hanuman” are both fast and guitar playing and you wish there are more tracks by the duo!  While “Kitty-Cat Break-Out” tends to blend acoustic guitar with percussion and correlates quite well with what happens on the big screen.

While the Spanish-style of music playing is quite evident throughout the soundtrack, you are treated with instrumental/orchestral music with tracks such as the sneaky “Humpty Dumpty & Kitty Southpaws”, the adventurous track of “The Orphanage”, the darker-themed brass horn and strings infused track of “That Fateful Night” and the beautiful conclusion in “The Giant’s Castle”.

You also have hybrid orchestral/Spanish-themes adventure tracks such as “Honor and Justice”, “I Was Always There” and “The Wagon Chase”.  Definitely tracks that captivate you with strings, percussion and guitar that continue to build upon a darker theme to even hope.

As for the CD insert, you get images from the film and also production reedits.

Overall, the music featured in “Puss in Boots” compliments the overall theme of the film and its characters.  Henry Jackman has been one of the go to composers in Hollywood, known for composing action films with tremendous efficacy.  This time around, the overall theme is much different than what he has done in previous films by taking that Zorro/Spaghetti Western style and building upon the music and creating something new for “Puss in Boots”.

These soundtracks that utilize a more adventurous Spanish, flamenco/acoustic guitar theme comes along once in awhile in Hollywood.  And it is actually quite refreshing to have a soundtrack such as “Puss in Boots” which manages to incorporate that style of music but also including orchestral tracks that feature a more darker and adventurous mood but also to bring those styles together.

If you were a big fan of James Horner’s “The Mask of Zorro” or even Ennio Morricone’s music for the “Dollars” trilogy,  you’ll definitely love Henry Jackman’s music, especially Rodrigo Y Gabriela’s music for this soundtrack.

Definitely an upbeat, vibrant and delightful soundtrack worth recommending!

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