If there is a composer respected by his coleagues and, at the same time, not over-known by the film music fans, this is non other than David Raksin. Former collaborator of Charles Chaplin, author of a good number of excellent film scores of impressive solidity, the lack of recordings of his music has not allowed that, with exceptions like Laura (1944), his stupendous melodic quality and his original harmonic sense has been recognized as deserved. Now (once more time Rhino), we may enjoy one of his more classical scores in a complete edition, commented and analyzed by the composer himself. Leaning on a main theme (the so-called "Siren Song" by his author), dramatic and emotive, the 44 cues display, with the same easiness of director Vincente Minnelli's image, all the luxurious and tragic showcase of the Hollywood world. Skilful orchestrator and arranger (like the diferent versions of the main theme showed at the end of the record proves), there is much more on Raksin's music which deserve to be study with more deep and respect. A good first step may be enjoy with plenitude of this terrific work, consequence and witness of a period clearly and sadly forgotten. M.A.F.

/ RHINO MOVIE MUSIC R272400 / 57'