"Paycheck"
Composed by John Powell

While I had once looked upon the recent scores by John Powell and Harry Gregson-Williams as tuneups for their next collaboration (Antz, Chicken Run, Shrek), they have both started to turn the corner as formidable composers who can take on projects upon themselves. Such was the case with Gregson-Williams' "Sinbad" from 2003, and it certainly is the case with Powell's "Paycheck".

Powell's work has slowly taken momentum. Haling once from Media Ventures, he is paying his dues, but the quality is not suffering. The only thing that is keeping him back right now is that the movies he is scoring are woefully inadequate at the box office. Not letting that deter him, he pushes out a bristling, energized score for this latest John Woo entry.

The score is not compromised of main themes that will carry the load, but rather, is comprised of action medlies that feature a polished, orchestral tone. There is a does of electronics involved, but as a whole, this album is orchestral.

While some may compare the music to that of David Arnold's "Bond" scores, I relate it more closely to one of Powell's previous works, the score for "Just Visiting". For instance, Track 2, "20 Items", brings about a friendly melody that is a distant cousin from the "Visiting" score. In fact, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the first few moments of that track as it has been some while since I have heard film music that captured me into its own world. Call me an optimist, but this track offered up some charm!

Jumping all the way to "Rachel's Party", Track 14, is my second most enjoyable moment from the soundtrack. Composed with a sound mirroring that of a string quartet, the subtle, restrained themes of the score come out to play in this classical sounding piece. In it's restraint lies its charm, and in its charm there is conclusion and strength. Aftet his track, I listed to the album again and was able to pick up statements of the theme in other tracks, in areas I had not noticed before. Finally, a score in this film season that is enjoyable on repeat listens.

On his journey to the blockbuster film that may define his career, Powell chalks up another success with "Paycheck." While it is not on an epic scale, or a soundtrack that will denote greatness, it is plenty good...and there is no shame in that.

1. Main Title (3:10)
2. 20 Items (2:53)
3. Wolfe Pack (2:54)
4. Crystal Balls (2:09)
5. Mirror Message (3:37)
6. Imposter (3:53)
7. Hog Chase Part 1 (3:13
8. Hog Chase Part 2 (4:04)
9. I Don't Remember (1:28)
10. Tomorrow's Headlines (4:02)
11. Future Tense (7:14)
12. Fait Accompli (6:09)
13. The Finger (0:33)
14. Rachel's Party (2:47))

Audio Clip: Track 13

Varese Sarabande