|
|
 |
My review of this:
http://www.movie-wave.net/john-williams-a-life-in-music/
I thought it was good, but not spectacular. I knew going in the selections were mostly "the John Williams hit parade", but I was mainly looking forward to hearing the London Symphony's take on some of these themes (plus the acoustics of Air Studios also seemed promising).
Conductor Gavin Greenaway interprets the music differently from Williams' originals (or Pops recordings) in regard to blend, tempo, etc., -- which is valid -- but the performances (of the "adventure" scores at least) come off as a bit "relaxed" and lack the punch of Williams' originals. The theme from Jurassic Park also omits the chorus, which is disappointing.
"Schindler's List" is probably the most unique track on the CD, and I have to admit I prefer the theme on a cello, as opposed to violin.
I agree the 51 minute running time is "stingy", considering a CD could have held nearly half an hour more music. The omission of The Imperial March (or any themes from Star Wars other than the main theme) is surprising, and I personally wish they'd included the Love Theme from Superman and Harry's Wonderful World. Anakin's Theme and Angela's Ashes would have been nice as well.
in any case, it remains worthy anthology, but one I wish was a little longer. The liner notes are sparse, but very interesting, in that they consist of statements from each of the orchestra's principal players.
Based on what I've heard from others though, this is actually a much more interesting and well-rounded anthology (and actually includes themes from Dracula, Heidi, and Goodbye Mr, Chips!)...
https://www.amazon.com/Lights-Camera-Music-Decades-Williams/dp/B06Y2B442K/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1534714735&sr=1-1&keywords=john+williams+keith+lockhart
|
|
|
|
