About the Soundtrack: A score lover's dream, that's what this is. As perhaps the finest, singular soundtrack collection set I have ever experienced, Tadlow Music presents the complete "El Cid" score with over 160 minutes of music related to the film. The 3 CD set features a comprehensive amount of content from Miklos Rosza's epic score, including previously unreleased material, alternate cues, bonus tracks and more. If you've ever had an interest in Rozsa's work (and by heavens, you should), than this is the key purchase of 2008 for you. While it is priced a bit on the steep side at $39 dollars, it's worth every penny invested since this is no ordinary soundtrack release; it's an even worthy of celebration!
Independently produced by James Fitzpatrick of Tadlow Music, the "El Cid" re-recording was performed by The City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus, led by the skilled baton of Nic Raine. Deciding not to tarnish this classic score a modern sound, the production team insisted on keeping a "vintage" approach to this recording by using a relatively dry studio sound stage, a strategy that pays off with great effectiveness. Indeed, this is the kind of classic fare that should enable everyone to become stoked about the music of this composing great.
What You Need to Know: This is what it's all about, my friends. "El Cid" is one of the finest soundtracks of any generation. Those of you who have any familiarity with this classic will immediately agree. That James Fitzpatrick had enough passion and drive to personally finance this mammoth effort is an achievement that should be applauded. The number of logistics he and his team must have had to confront must have been staggering but I am glad they were able to bring this to fruition -- this CD set is a rare gem.
Rosza's score is driven by a multitude of themes, some of which make only brief appearances in the movie but are fully realized here with this release. To say that the writing is full of depth would be an understatement; Rosza's research, dedication and creativity yielded a score for the ages. The thematic construct is staggering, which is evident from the opening minutes on with the "El Cid" overture, a grand and melodic introduction to the adventure that soon unfolds. The main theme itself is a highly memorable piece of work, injected with spanish inspired notes that resonate in a heroic fashion and gives off a larger than life tone without being pompous. By now, I am sure even if you have a passing interest in film music that you are at least vaguely familiar with this great theme by now. It's originality has withstood the test of time and it remains a triumph even to this day.
All the other notable entries are well presented on the set as well, including the Coronation, the El Cid march and the memorable finale (who can forget Rosza's use of the organ!). Essentials aside, it's the previously unreleased music that truly extends and enhances the listening experience, however. Truthfully, it made it feel as though I was listening to "El Cid" for the first time with this new music. I also submit that this additional content helps fill in the gaps of vacancies I was previously oblivious to, thus making the payoffs of each theme more victorious.
One would think that with over 150 minutes of music that the score might become repetitive or lose its legs at some point. On most occasions, that would be the case but Rosza was quite adept at writing variations for his themes, altering the moods and layers ever so slightly to keep the score on target with the movie and in line as a great listening experience. When you listen to this album, try to note the amount of times that variations occur with the prominent themes alone. It's the work of genius.
If the 2-disc re-recording was not enough, fans of the composer are provided yet another treat with a 3rd disc, this featuring bonus content such as alternate cues, a bonus suite from "Double Indemnity" and video clips from the recording sessions. Indeed, the payoff only gets sweeter with this set! WIth such extravagant, thoughtful content, it's easy to see that this entire project was fueled by admiration of the composer and the term labor of love seems to fit this expedition quite accurately.
Final Score: If all my accolades above were not enough, let me leave you with this: If film music is more than just a passing fancy for you, it is imperative that you add this soundtrack set to your collection. Not only is it a refresh of classic fare, it also provides enough unreleased content to make "El Cid" feel as though it's a brand new release. For a score that was great to begin with, this is an irresistible match.
Great job, James & company, and thank you whole heartedly for your dedication.
Tadlow Music | Silva Screen
