What You Need to Know: After getting clobbered by most film music critics for his score to "
Iron Man," Ramin Djawadi comes back with an effort like "Fly Me to the Moon" and restores a bit of order. Upon hearing this album, it made me wish that the same cast of critics behind the harsh "Iron Man" score reviews could take a bit of time to listen to Ramin's other offerings like this, but alas, sometimes we have ears for only the big projects.
The attributes of the "Fly Me to the Moon" score are of lightheartedness and fun, a welcome combination to be sure. Ramin establishes a soft, almost kid-friendly style with his approach to this album, making this a very stress free listening experience that should appeal to a wide audience. One would be hard pressed to believe that this was the very same composer who put in such electronic brawn into the Iron Man score! Kudos for Ramin for showing a different side to his writing! In fact, keep an ear open for a nifty take on the "Russian Sailor's Dance" on track 12.
There are plenty of motifs and whimsical action statements that pace the score well. While there aren't any knockout statements to bowl you over, there is a steadiness to the music that keeps everything on an even, entertaining keel. Besides, we don't always need a "Building the Crate" from "Chicken Run" to satisfy our thirst! Indeed, from influences of Russian classical works to good old fashioned adventure motifs, "Fly Me to the Moon" made for a fun, whimsical listen that never once became overbearing or contrived. You could tell that Ramin had a bit of fun while writing this one. Thankfully, that camp made it through to the music.
