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BuySoundtrax.com released another collectable soundtrack item, and this time, it's for "The Creature Wasn't Nice." I'm a big proponent of this 'exclusive' series from the label since I think adding a bit of collectable enticement to our love for soundtracks is a nice token. It's even better when the music can be enjoyed on its own merit, which is the case for most of these releases.
"The Creature Wasn't Nice" offers music from David Spear, tackling a sci-fi/horror genre with a comedic tone. This is the type of spoof movie that was prevalent before the days of "Scary Movie" (or even "Epic Movie" for that matter!). Included in the breadth of music are songs that, tonally, would befit the atmosphere of a dinner cruise setting. Only in this case, the lyrics would prevent that since much of it deals with one wanting to eat your face! I have to admit, I found it rather funny to hear such lyrics attached to these songs, which led to a few chuckles as I was listening to the soundtrack.
As far as Spear's score goes -- he does an effective job with it. The best of the lot is the opening title sequence, which borrows some inspiration from Holst's "The Planets" symphony. An odd pairing, but an enjoyable first track as a result. Other mentionables in this work is the side winding theme of terror that slinks through many of the tracks, presumably to track the menacing creature of the film. While fun to listen to, it appears a bit too often for my tastes, but this is a complete edition after all. Thus, the risk of a collectable album.
Continuing to judge strictly on the merits of a listening experience, you'll notice that the orchestra has a small size to it, never bringing on a full sound. I can only imagine how many players that Spear had to work with, but this is a justifiable point that listeners will pick up on. Still, there is enough of that 1980s style of melodic music that helps to stifle that point, if you're so inclined.
Perhaps what I found most interesting about this CD is not the score itself, but the liner notes that accompany it. These detailed notes are from the director who seemed to have gone through many fits in trying to bring his unusual vision to the screen. In his frustration, there are a few, sparse words about Spear's music, which correctly leads you to believe he wanted a different direction from the score entirely. The various title incarnations are also discussed and the examples cited will show you how Hollywood executives will never change no matted what decade we're in.
Overall, the music is adequate but not the type I would want to listen to too many times. I enjoyed the humor of the songs, the sci-fi elements of the score and the nostalgia that it brings together, but the depth is not such that I can recommend it based on the score alone. However, if you're a soundtrack collector, I think you'll find this to be a nice addition to your archives!
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