John Williams & The LSO Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace Soundtrack

I read a review of this album before it came out, and the reviewer had said that it was disappointing and boring. Keep in mind, that this was before the movie was even released. Now, can someone tell me why this doesn't make sense? Right, it doesn't make sense, because normally a soundtrack is bought to have something to remember the film by; what makes the music more enjoyable is having knowledge of the film, and how the music fits with the movie. In that case, this soundtrack is an excellent work. It can continue my belief thatt John williams is one of the best film scorers ever, and that the music that fits with movies best is classical, not the latest retread from Smashmouth or what have you. My one disappointment, though, is that the pieces have been edited, and every bit of music that was in the movie isn't necessarily on the soundtrack release (This was true for the original Star Wars movies too, until the unabridged soundtrack was released on a double CD to accompany the Special Edition Releases). So hopefully a double disc containing all the music will be released sometime in the future.

Highlights:
Duel of the Fates
The "Duel of the Fates" movements are some of the best musical pieces I've heard in a film. That choir! Whoooo! VH1 showing this video about nine times in a row the week the film was to come out might have had something to do with this too. Who knows?

Augie's Great Municipal Band/End Credits
I have no idea who Augie is or what's up with his Municipal Band, but that song is very nice. This double track wraps up the movie during the mandatory parade through the city after the evil ones were defeated once again. I hated the kids choir when I first heard it, but now i really, really like it. "End Credits" Combines those memorable end-credits violins from every other Star Wars movie with themes from "Duel of the Fates" and "Anakin's Theme."

Audio:
"Qui-Gon's Noble End"
The selecion you will hear is from the track "Qui-Gon's Noble End" which takes place during the final battle scenes. Listen for those great drums in the middle that signify Darth Maul. (You may have to turn it up a bit, because ut's a quiet part).
Listen (480kb)
(Right click and choose "save as")

BUY! BUY! BUY!

Now that you've listened, you can buy this CD at CDNOW. Ha! Don't even have to get in the motorcar! Just click click and the postman will bring it to your house in a few days! How about that! You won't regret it one bit, and neither will I. So, go buy it here, it's oh so good!

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