"Nanny McPhee"
Score Composed by Patrick Doyle

MP3 Audio Clips: Snow in August

"Nanny McPhee" is a colorful and charming soundtrack from the venerable composer, Patrick Doyle, who follows up his score to Harry Potter 4 with an offering that is equally as enjoyable.
 
I have long been a fan of Doyle's talent and consistency over the years and can quite honestly compare him to the likes of John Williams and the late Jerry Goldsmith as some of the modern day greats.  You see, what makes Doyle so effective is that he tailors his music quite specifically to the pulse of the movie that he is attached to and it is quite infrequent to hear him repeat himself in other soundtracks.  He has a range and originality all his own and "Nanny McPhee" is prime example of that.
 
The best way to summarize the music here is by stating that it's always on the move, catching and following the flow of the movie itself.  These fast changing directions lead to comical heights, dramatic moments of tenderness, and bustling segments of light action motifs.  Indeed, the best way to enjoy this effort is to accept the dynamic musical direction from the very beginning and let Doyle take you on a whimisical ride.
 
The methodology of the music is also terrific since the impact and enjoyment of it increases the deeper into the soundtrack you get.  It is all punctuated by a fantastic closing suite that concludes the album.  By that point, I really was in another world and felt captivated by the magic flowing through the speakers.  If there were more cues such as the final track on the disc, than the soundtrack would easily be an A+.  As it stands, the other tracks are simply pleasant diversions that build up to this magnificent finale.  And you know what, I don't have a problem with that.
 
Lets hope that Doyle keeps tacking on new scoring assignments.  His presence in the film music world should be a welcome one to all fans who appreciate cinematic works. He's on the 'A' list in my book.
 
Final Score: Indulge in this one if you're a Doyle fan, or if you have an ear for lighthearted, fun music that is crafted with originality.
 
Grade: B+

1.  They've Eaten the Baby 2:42
2.  No More Nannies 1:24
3.  Secret Toast and Jam 2:30
4.  A Clockwork Mouse 1:03
5.  The Pink Chair 1:00
6.  I Did Knock 6:02
7.  Goodnight, Children 4:25
8.  Measle Medicine 1:31
9.  Soup Du Jour 1:11
10.  I Smell Damp 1:40
11.  Barnyard Fashion 1:37
12.  Lord of the Donkeys 0:39
13.  The Girl in the Carriage 3:20
14.  Kites in the Sky 2:26
15.  The Room at the Top of the Stairs 1:43
16.  Toad in the Teapot 3:39
17.  Our Last Chance 2:17
18.  Mrs. Brown's Lullaby 1:20
19.  The Lady in Blue 2:04
20.  Bees and Cakes 3:45
21.  Snow in August 7:03
  Total Time: 53:21

MP3 Audio Clips: Snow in August