Danny Elman's Serenada Schizophrana is a welcome, totally original, modern symphony.  Segmented into eight tracks in total, each 'movement' has its own particular theme and style.  Each delivers a unique entertainment value.

 

Eflman has always been known for his colorful approach to film scoring, especially in his collaboration with Tim Burton.  While I never felt that Elfman was creatively restricted in these efforts, the shackles have truly been cast aside in this effort.  Basically guided by his own imagination, the music reflects the originality of the composer in every cue.

 

In listening to this, I found that I appreciated each track on its own merit and for differing reasons.  For instance, with the opening movement 'Pianos," I was impressed by how Elfman combined his own sensibilities along with that of classical composition.  The result is a piece that sounds part film score and part classical.  It  was also refreshing to hear the music being given an opportunity to flow freely without the restraints of a film's timing hindering it.

 

Another notable track is "A Brass Thing," with a theme you can easily deduce from the title.  The brass notes make this one a fun cue to dial into and Elfman does well with the timing of this particular piece as all the moments of emphasis are right on cue.

 

Some of what makes it personally difficult for me to really dive into classical symphonies of the past is due to the fragmented manner in which the music is heard.  To me, it's more of a technical, educational experience than it is an entertaining one.  That's not the case at all with Elfman's work here, though.  He's put together a diverse offering of music that retains listenability, offers originality and brings forth a new take on the modern symphony. 

 

Final Score: "Serenada Schizophrana" is worth your time to hear how a well known composer's inspirations transcend the film music genre and into a world of symphnic excellence.  It's blend of classic and modern writing that strikes a memorable impression.