The special edition release of the score from "Lifeforce" makes for quite a unique collectable.  BuySoundtrax.com has put together a very impressive package featuring the complete score (along with unreleased music) by Henry Mancini and the additional work provided by the late Michael Kamen. If ever you wanted to the complete works from this film than you should go no further than this product.

 

Truthfully, other than the fanfare of the end titles, I knew very little of the music that went into this film.  The liner notes proved to be very informative by providing the background behind the music and why there were two composers associated with this project.  It also revealed that "Lifeforce" was not the original title of the film as well and that it was used as a substitute to add a bit of a legitimacy to the picture.  These are all very interesting trivia bits that I enjoyed reading about even though I was unfamiliar with the film itself.

 

Now, the music selections on this 2 CD set are vast.  The release is filled to the brim with score material.  First off, you get to hear the Mancini score with previously unreleased material on disc 1.  The second disc yields Kamen's additions along with the original soundtrack release from the 80's.

 

By and large, the music is best suited for listeners who indulge in the art of underscore.  The score material from both composers yield mostly atmospheric horror conditions that embody the tone of the film.  I'll be honest, it's difficult to listen to in one go round due to the style of music -- it's a bit draining. This type of soundtrack release is so massive that it's best enjoyed in segmented listening experiences. 

The highlights of the score are clearly the renditions of Mancini's main theme for the picture which are featured during the opening and closing tracks of the complete score.  It has a catchy fast-moving pace to it complimented by a melodic tone.  It can certainly throw you for a loop when you realize in the back of your head it's the work of Henry Mancini, who is well known for his work in the comedic genre.  It just goes to show how flexible and talented composers can be -- just give them the genre and they will deliver.  However, aside from the main theme, it was tough to grab hold of the dark underscore that made up most of the soundtrack.  As far as Kamen's highlights, that would be the track entitled "Grandson of Web."  The choir used in the piece lends a nice touch to the gothic science fiction theme of the film. It also sets this cue apart from the other segments of the additional music set.

 

While I wasn't bowled over by the majority of the music from either disc, I did enjoy it for more exploratory interests.  In a way, it's like attending a soundtrack appreciation class to see what went into the writing process and to get a taste of what gets left on the cutting room floor.  And even though much of the additional music doesn't mesh with my listening style per se, I did find value in it.

 

Lastly, I'm a big fan of "cool" items to add to my assortment of collections, be it dvd, cd or comics.  This soundtrack falls in that category due to its limited release (3000 copies), interesting liner notes and the combination of the composers who were involved with this.  If this fits your style, than I certainly recommend picking this one up. 

Purchase Link: BuySoundtrax.com