Thursday, December 16, 2010

The 7th Voyage Of Sinbad Movie Suite

7th Voyage of Sinbad, The Suite
Music by Bernard Herrmann

This is the first movie suite to be shared by Bernard Herrmann. When this movie spectacle was released in 1958, fans flocked to see the siblimely strange creatures and magic of Ray Harryhausen, the special effects wizard.  What they also heard is now considered one of the masterworks of composer Bernard Herrmann from his lengthy career.  Best known for his extensive work with Alfred Hitchcock, Mr. Herrman, was the film-noire composer extraordinaire, but for this score, he went all-out for adventure and highly dramatic cues. A slightly eastern sounding orchestra explodes with horns and percussion with an arabic flourish as the movie suite opens, dragging us into the mix while we experience the musical story of Sinbad.  There are some slow moments when your mind wanders before the final notes sweep us to the powerful conclusion.  With a timing of 18:54, this frantic work feels like it's only a few minutes long, but if you've never heard this before, I think you'll really enjoy it.  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
MP3 FILES (Hi Quality 320):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/tzbl5n5ga5py4dj/7thVoyageofSinbad%2CTheSuite.mp3


Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Pearl Harbor Movie Suite

Pearl Harbor Suite
Music by Hans Zimmer

As usual, we will not comment on the merits of this blockbuster from 2001, except to say that it is another recent attempt by Hollywood to show the relationship of love as the evils of war intrude.  The score on the other hand, stands out as an excellent example of Hans Zimmer's earlier works before he became one of Hollywoods busiest composers. With his usage of piano, synthesizers and the orchestra with a small dose of choral voices, he does not become stuck in the what may have been, but delivers an understated work that has been overshadowed by so many of his other works, such as Gladiator.  With a timing of 25:49, you owe it too yourself to give this a listen, because if you like Mr. Zimmer's work, you'll enjoy this, too!  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/txg0nmc5z1a56hk/PrlHrbrSte.zip

MP3 FILES (Hi-Quality 320):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/6gz84uyf8w97ssf/PearlHarborSuite.mp3

Monday, December 6, 2010

Tora! Tora! Tora! The Movie Suite

Tora, Tora, Tora Suite
Music by Jerry Goldsmith

The December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor was given a docu-drama feel when this motion picture was released in 1970.  Jerry Goldsmith, the well-known master composer of many of the 60's best movie scores such as; The Blue Max and Planet of The Apes was given the nod to pen the score.  Chosing a minimalistic approach, Mr. Goldsmith emersed us into Japanese themes and in-your-face drums that he sparsely mixes with the orchestra to create an effective score.  Offered here is the movie suite to that score which certainly showcases some of the master's earlier talents for ominous tension and deliberate staging. With a timing of  17:02, I hope you'll enjoy this as you reflect upon a historical event in the history of the USA.  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/2rxj4i6zqqovjcm/Tra%2CTra%2CTraSte.zip

MP3 FILES (Hi-Quality 320):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/j7zb6uyazgmdikq/Tora%2CTora%2CToraSuite.mp3

Thursday, December 2, 2010

The Natural Movie Suite

Natural, The Suite
Music by Randy Newman

Now that the golden days of summer are far behind us, and the world series is just a memory, we can home-in on a baseball, movie suite that is surprisingly entertaining.  Since this is the first suite we are going to hear by Mr. Newman, we should remember that he penned numerous motion picture scores during the seventies and eighties, but most agree that this is by far, his very best orchestral score.  The jazzy feel evokes the feel of the good ole days gone by, yet there are moments of fantasy that are carried off to the extreme when the main theme kicks in about 1/3 of the way in.  Later as we're relaxing again, the build to the pre-eminent conclusion is fantastic. With a timing of only 17:57 this movie suite is fun, rewarding and too short! Sure hope you enjoy this one!  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/69voiac5vsckiz1/NtrlSte%2CThe.zip

MP3 FILES (Hi Quality 320):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/pwctlqmtjquqgja/NaturalSuite%2CThe.mp3


Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Young Sherlock Holmes Movie Suite

Young Sherlock Holmes Suite
Music by Bruce Broughton

In in a single note, or phrase, or nuance, one can tell greatness. It stands out simply because it exists while overshadowing all the others.  Mr. Broughton gives us his very best work to date in this movie suite.  There is so much music in the score, that this is the third incarnation for this suite and it is finally ready for consumption.  There are other versions of this suite floating around out there, but with a complete timing of 28:10 this one follows the storyline of the motion picture, faithfully merging the choral voices and orchestra on the way to the conclusion.  I really believe that this will be one of your favorites once you give it a listen. Enjoy!  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/dheua0a9tzwe8iw/YngShrlckHlmesSte.zip

MP3 FILES (Hi Quality 320):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/z9c2fc4ik0lhwsd/YoungSherlockHolmesSuite.mp3

Sunday, November 28, 2010

The Agony And The Ecstacy Movie Suite

The Agony And The Ecstacy Suite
Music by Alex North

Many of the motion pictures from Hollywood's golden age offer us an opportunity to experience the original masters as they experimented with their craft.  This is our first movie suite from Alex North who is best known for his work on Cleopatra and Dragonslayer, but many believe that his work on The Agony and The Ecstacy has been overlooked.  From the first sounds of the horns as they reverberate across the soundstage to the understated flutes that signify a burgening artist, we are reminded that this is a majestic undertaking.  After all, scoring the events of the painting of the Sistine Chapel must have caused Mr. North considerable concern.  He rose above his personal issues though and we are delivered a work that reaches beyond the ages. With a timing of 24:28, this slowly builds to a fitting climax. This may be one that you'll pass on, but after listening, I hope you enjoy.  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/pcwebq9eud54h73/AgnyNEcstcy%2CTheSte.zip

MP3 FILES (Hi Quality 320):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/t3sgckdgioc9x0p/AgonyAndEcstacy%2CTheSuite.mp3

Friday, November 19, 2010

Van Helsing Movie Suite

Van Helsing Suite
Music by Alan Silvestri

Although this is too late for Halloween, it is a full-bloodied, featured movie suite by Mr. Silvstri that does not rest on its laurels but comes out swinging with a bold statement.  Well utilized drums beat the charge of the dark avenger as one chases towards a fate worse than death, while the horns of dispair hang around your head.  Is it time yet?  Listening intently, you'll hear the whispering notes of the full orchestra as it swirls around you, heedless of the dangers ahead. You can't stop, you must go on, so the music presses us forward. After only 20:39 it will be all over. Hopefully when you pause to breathe, you'll realize that you enjoyed this one, too.  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/m65lk3lncx4xew4/VnHlsngSte.zip

MP3 FILES (Hi Quality 320):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/uhls7tf3fgdmnxb/VanHelsingSuite.mp3

Monday, November 8, 2010

Hidalgo Movie Suite

Hidalgo Suite
Music by James Newton Howard

In an interesting change of scenery, we have a short movie suite here from Mr. Howard that crosses the lines of musicality.  Filled with basic sounds such as beating drums, single lutes, as well as Arabic pipes, this music does a wonderful job of setting the time of the late 1800's and place of the Arabian desert for this motion picture. Still the orchestra is represented in such a way as to cause one to reflect upon how all the different ethnic music of the past world can be combined to entertain us today.  Emotionally, this movie suite is mostly about the race to the finish with some short pauses along the way for a man and his horse, so this music may not be for everyone.  Yet, if you are a fan of motion picture scores, with a running time of only 14:14, you should take the few minutes that this runs and give it a listen.  Who knows, you just might enjoy it. I know, that I do!  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/qwidahk33iojvst/HdlgM0Ste.zip

MP3 FILES (Hi-Quality 320)

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

The Patriot Movie Suite

Patriot, The Suite
Music by John Williams

There are times when we hear about another movie suite by Mr. Williams that we may think that he must be whipping up the ussual tried and true music themes that he has often used in so many other motion pictures, that one wonders if we should even bother.  Well, let me tell you that, "YES", we should bother!  In fact this movie suite is filled with so many new, fresh themes that you'll keep checking to see who the composer really is.  This is music that's meant to be heard and enjoyed.  With certainty it carried the motion picture easily upon its shoulders and when listened to the music all by itself, you'll smile as you are taken into the world of The Patriot.  With a timing of 32:03, it is worth spending a piece of your day with as you enjoy it over and over again.  At least I hope you do.  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/4wcex7gba6t3xdh/PtriSte%2CThe.zip

MP3 FILES (High Quality-320)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/e3z6kch0gly8vbk/PatriotSuite%2CThe.mp3


Monday, October 18, 2010

Hook The Movie Suite

Hook Suite
Music by John Williams

Filled with energetic themes that take us on a magical, musical journey to a place that exists somewhere between sleep and waking, this movie suite has got the goods.  Mr. Williams put aside his Superman, ET, Star Wars, Indiana Jones musical roots to concieve a new orchestral sound that is still Williams, but it also offers something else that we rarely hear in most movie suites, the unabashed joy of youth. Bound by the constraints of the images on the screen, he still managed to offer us terror, loss, hope and ultimate success. With a timing of 27:54, I imagine that you should enjoy this movie suite again and again!  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):

MP3 FILES (High Quality 320):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/rvj2lfxhm3c8evz/HookSuite.mp3


Wednesday, October 6, 2010

The Alamo (1960) Movie Suite

Alamo, The Suite (1960)
Music by Dmitri Tiomkin

The sacrifices of those souls who've died in battle, lives on in the music of the classic movies. As ussual, we are not here to discuss the merits of the classic film, but to share the score that lifted the performances of the actors to legends in their own right. Mr. Tiomkin was a mainstay composer of the Hollywood movies of the late 40's, right up into the 60's and is well known for the music on classics such as: It's A Wonderful Life, High Noon and this picture, The Alamo. In this case the movie suite serves this music well, since much of it is hidden among the dialogue and action backdrop throughout the movie. The main theme, known as the Green Leaves of Summer is carried by an accordian merging with the strings of the orchestra, while the Davy Crockett and Alamo themes work together to form a perfectly wonderful movie suite that is both uplifting and memorable. With a timing of 18:23 it's a bit short but only because you are left wanting more. I will bring more of Mr. Tiomkin because I know you'll enjoy this.  -MJ

APE FILES (lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/su8fnnvcdrdybha/Almo%2CTheSte%281960%29.zip

MP3 FILES (High Quality 320)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/0iijr75gcf677h4/Alamo%2CTheSuite%281960%29.mp3

Alamo the Movie Suite

Alamo, The Suite
Music by Carter Burwell

In an attempt to offer movie suites that cover every imaginable style of music, we have a unique offering here that is part symphonic, part march, part folksie and completely engaging. Also this is the first visit of Mr. Burwell, so we'll tread lightly in his honor. This movie suite is much different than the 1960 version, but that's not a bad thing.  Filled with emotion, there is a singular message here as we march from the beginning to the fitting conclusion.  Along the way we're to visit the hopeless situation of war and death and the determination of a few men who stand to make a difference.  The main theme flirts in and out of the music, a simple yet heartfelt motif that inspires us. As the final horns sing we are reminded that we only have one shot to make a difference, so it may as well be now. At least that's how I feel. With a timing of 21:55, you may want to check this out, because you just might enjoy it.  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/z2zg8lth6bz9qos/Almo%2CTheSte.zip

MP3 FILES (High Quality 320)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/0jrggbna15goh9u/Alamo%2CTheSuite.mp3

Friday, September 10, 2010

Legends Of The Fall Movie Suite

Legends Of The Fall Suite
Music by James Horner

Sometimes, the score to a motion picture seems to blend seemlessly with the pictures on the screen so well that it seems as if they were created at the same moment, with one goal in mind.  Mr. Horner's score to this romantic work of drama lifted him from the doldrums and began his amazing performances in the movies that he scored after this one, such as: Apollo 13, Braveheart and Titanic. Filled with pulsing themes of passion and hope, as well as loss and regret, we are treated to a musical portrait of a timeless nature, of emotions that will be around as long as man.  Naysayers may say that Mr. Horner copied John Barry from Dance With Wolves, or that he borrowed heavily from Wagner, but the people that snatched up this music keep it close to the heart, and this score is considered a cult classic by those that are willing to follow James Horner to the very end.  As a movie suite, we are presented with a composition with a timing of 28:03 that belongs right up there among the best. Hope you enjoy!  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/3fqxkpfuhcdxuap/LgndsOfTFllSte.zip

MP3 FILES (High Quality 320):

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Valkyrie The Movie Suite

Valkyrie Suite
Music by John Ottman

Starting out with a lone piano, we quickly become caught-up in this movie suite.  My first movie suite by Mr. Ottman reminds me of a serious Jerry Goldsmith. The tension is thick and deliberate as we drive headlong towards the uncertain future, sure to catch us unaware. Each time I listen to this, I become lost in the music and find the final moments carried by a solemn choir bringing me back to reality. With a timing of 23:30, I hope you enjoy this reality.  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/rz0bbn241uzf5gz/VlkrieSte.zip

MP3 FILES (High Quality - 320):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/kykvv0b1qozub95/ValkyrieSuite.mp3

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Silverado The Movie Suite

Silverado Suite
Music by Bruce Broughton

Oh yeah! Talk about a rousing motion picture score to a western that pulls out all the stops and delivers a shot faster than a gunslinger. If you've never heard this music before, you are in for a real treat.  When listening to this movie suite, I am reminded of Aaron Copeland, the way the main theme spins in and out of control.  Is this Billy The Kid?  No it's not.  Fortunately, it is Silverado even though you might check every once in a while to be certain.  We are taken on a great musical ride with nary a detour with this orchestral tour-de-force.  With a timing of 33:06, I think that you'll enjoy this one!  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/rb6aws9wdsleaxd/SlvrdSte.zip

MP3 FILES (High Quality): 

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Schindler's List the Movie Suite

Schindler's List Suite
Music by John Williams

On rare occasions, it becomes necessary to pass on a work that trancends simple conventions of motion picture scoring. A work that touches both the heart and the head. A work that breathes on its own. And finally a work that won the Academy Award for Best Original Score in 1993. Actually, this movie suite is not a convenient orchestral composition, instead it is more like a fine poetry of musical phrases that has been carefully quilted together to enjoy. There are the solos and intensive violin work from the famed virtuoso Itshak Perlman as well as some excellent piano work from someone. Connecting those instruments are the moments of orchestra that may be considered to be a massive quartet than anything else. Still, it is evokable music that belongs way up there on the mantel of movie suites. I really hope you enjoy this for the first or the next time. -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):

MP3 FILES (High Quality - 320):

Monday, August 23, 2010

Land Before Time, The Movie Suite

Land Before Time, The Suite
Music by James Horner

What a busy month it has been. So sorry, but haven't had enough time to keep up with this.  Today we have a seldom heard, if not completely ignored movie suite from the master, Mr. James Horner.  If you have ever seen this motion picture, then you must have children, or at the very least, spent time around them, since this movie is geared to the younger members of our species.  As far as the music goes, that is a shame, because Mr. Horner scored a terrific piece for the beginning of time when life is wonderful and full of hope for the future.  Actually this work is more like a symphony than a soundtrack score and judging by the scarcity of the availability of this music, many others must also agree.  With a timing of 25:28, this will leave you longing for more of the same. Hope you enjoy.  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/w35bamtealrnavr/LndBfreTmeM0Ste.zip

MP3 FILES (Highest Quality):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/r39ovdw5429rhfk/LandBeforeTime%2CTheSuite.mp3

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Deep Impact Movie Suite

Deep Impact Suite
Music by James Horner

There are so many end-of-days movies out there, but this one had James Horner scoring the music so at least when there was nothing happening onscreen the fine music kept us going to the final conclusion.  This music is purely Mr. Horner. It sounds vaguely familiar, particularly when there is a piano riff, maybe a little like Rocketeer; yet when the main theme soars we are filled with the feelings of hope and the terror of life's choices. Why does one person live and another person die? We can't answer that, but it is certain that we are all given chances and it's how we reacted in those moments that makes a difference. That may be what this suite says to you and since it is entertaining on it's own merits as a movie suite, I'm happy to share it with you. With a timing that checks in at 28:46, I hope that you enjoy this one. -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/tdx12772537lnkq/DpImpctSte.zip

MP3 FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/3b8tleuhvfzj924/DeepImpactSuite.mp3


Saturday, July 31, 2010

King Arthur Movie Suite

King Arthur Suite
Music by Hans Zimmer

In a perfect world, we would all have a composer such as Mr. Hans Zimmer to score our life's pursuits and accomplishments.  If one could choose, this movie suite would be mine!  Powerful.  Graceful. The orchestra sounds as if it were huge and the occasional chorus blends in so well you hardly notice. Teeming with action on the edge, yet filled with purpose and focused on the prize, this is certainly one of, if not the best from Mr. Zimmer.  Ah, if only...still we are lucky that in this world we have this magnificent music to hear as often as we wish, whenever we wish to escape to another time in place, if only in our head.  With a timing of 29:30, I hope that you will really enjoy this one.  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/0pftaoaz9l95jls/KngArthrM0Ste.zip

MP3 FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/qrh2i00lk6ou7jt/KingArthurSuite.mp3

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

The English Patient Movie Suite

English Patient, The Suite
Music by Gabriel Yared

Mr.Yared won an Academy Award for Best Score in 1996 with this lyrical work of orchestral phrasing that transcends into a new movie suite. Unfortunately, so much of the score was written to effect the mood, which it did very well, but with so few themes, we end up with only a taste of what this can really offer. Ah, but such a sweet taste it is!  With a timing of only 11:53, use this to get you into the mood. For anything!  I hope that you enjoy!  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/6chp27ubsg0fvn4/EnglshPtntSte.zip

MP3 FILES (High Quality 320):

Monday, July 19, 2010

Cold Mountain Movie Suite

Cold Mountain Suite
Music by Gabriel Yared

For the final Civil War movie suite, we have this thought provoking work from Mr. Yared that at once is both emotionally moving as well as comforting. With a singular piano morphing into a gentle orchestral focus, we feel the longing of the music before a lone violin takes us to the next orchestral phrases. There are no real themes, yet this short movie suite is subtle as it takes us on its journey of the moment. This score was nominated by the Academy Awards for Best Original Score in 2003 so if you haven't heard it, here is your chance.  With a timing of only 15:08 take a short break from your day and enjoy!  -MJ

APE FILES (Lossless):

MP3 FILES:

Friday, July 2, 2010

North And South Movie Suite

North and South Suite
Music by Bill Conti

Still keeping with our Civil War theme, we have another movie suite taken from the landmark, television mini-series.  Better known for his other works such as the Rocky theme, Mr. Conti was given the task of scoring countless hours to accompany the drama and on-screen action of this Civil War epic.  The main theme grabs our attention before spinning off into a steady myriad of contortions.  Maybe a bit repetitious, the variety is grand in scale while putting us into the mix of war with some thunderous drums and gallant horns to pick us up. This is such great music, no doubt you will find yourself humming it long after the movie suite ends. It still feels like a work in progress, due in no small part to all of the available music.  Please understand that it was difficult to keep this suite at a reasonable length, yet the timing ended up at 40:03, probably my longest (okay I looked and Avatar is my longest @ 43:51), which of course I still hope you enjoy it. Enjoy!!  -MJ 

APE FILES (LOSSLESS):

MP3 FILES (HIGH QUALITY):


Gone With The Wind Movie Suites

Gone With The Wind (Original) Suite
Music by Max Steiner

Sticking with our Civil War Epics, I have a treat for you that is unique.  When you think of movies or epic motion pictures or the Civil War, you can't help but think of "Gone With The Wind". This music is well-known, almost as much as the film, but listening to the score reminds us of the limitations of when it was made.  The first movie suite is from the original 1941 score, which was cleaned up and remastered into stereo, but I warn you that there are numerous artifacts like hiss that are present.  Also the cues did not gel into a real composition but we still have something that resembles a movie suite. With a timing of only 14:40, go ahead and give it a listen. Enjoy!  -MJ

APE FILES (LOSSLESS)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/38o5ooj62pukw37/GneWthThWndSte%28Orig%29.zip



-OR-
Gone With The Wind Suite
Music by Max Steiner

The clarity and sound of this digitally pristine score was painstakingly generated by Charles Gerhardt and the National Philharmonic Orchestra in 2009.  It recreates the sound with a realism that easily surpasses the original in every way while retaining Max Steiners true intent. Certainly if he were here to listen, he would approve.  With a timing of 25:03, I think that you'll definitely enjoy this, too!  -MJ

APE FILES (LOSSLESS):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/k6dh4wi8ax6vqjl/GneWthThWndMoSte.zip

MP3 FILES (HIGH QUALITY):



Gettysburg Movie Suite

Gettysburg Suite
Music by Randy Edelman

In celebration of the 147th year anniversary (July 1-3, 1863) of the Battle of Gettysburg, we have a powerful movie suite from Mr. Edelman that encompasses the bitterness of that bloody conflict.  The main theme begins with a trumpet that is joined by drums which reminds us that this music is about war.  As the strings sweep us into the action we hear a short riff of "Dixie" before the remainder of the music fades into our memory.  With a timing of 28:55, we can never forget.  I hope you enjoy.  -MJ 

APE FILES (LOSSLESS):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/hxwcd0jicc9pwcc/GttysbrgSte.zip

MP3 FILES (HIGH QUALITY):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/z0ryf36rwr5548f/GettysburgSuite.mp3

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Glory Movie Suite

Glory Suite
Music by James Horner

This unusual Civil War movie suite comes to us from the pen of James Horner who has taken an unusual approach by putting us into the middle of the emotional impact of the motion picture. Beginning with a subdued gospel choir, the quiet strings of the main theme creep up on us before the music is underscored by the steady beating of the drums as we are shakenly reminded that war is bloody hell. The timbre of the voices along with the strength of the orchestra is haunting, yet strangely familiar to Horner fans.  Normally I do not go for choral works in movie suites, but when the voices are integral as another group of orchestral instruments the results are glorious (pun intended). With a timing of exactly 24:00, when you experience this, I know that you'll enjoy.  -MJ

APE FILES (LOSSLESS):

MP3 FILES (HIGH QUALITY):

Gods And Generals Movie Suite

Gods And Generals Suite
Music by Randy Edelman; John Frizzell

Speaking of "epic"! The American Civil War was an an event that helped shape the USA into what it is today.  Many fine motion pictures have inspired many to create those significant moments for us to experience and of course, the accompanying scores also come with inspirational messages all of their own.  First we have a lone violin that is answered by a single clarinet before the main theme kicks in, the strings soaring.  As the snare drums kick in we know for certain that this movie suite is about war!  Once the subdued choral voices announce the start of a lone piano before they mix together with the orchestra. Ending with a lone piano, this is a solemn yet touching work and if you've never heard it, you are missing something quite special.  With a timing of 24:45, I hope you'll enjoy.  -MJ

APE FILES (LOSSLESS):

MP3 FILES (HIGH QUALITY):

Friday, June 25, 2010

Les Miserables Movie Suite

Les Miserables Suite
Music by Basil Poledouris

Many of the best motion pictures are about epic events from history.  The more dramatic the event, the more dramatic the picture and for those of us who live for the music, we are treated to majestic scores that transcend the words and scenes while completing the whole package.  Well, Mr. Poledouris stepped up to the podium to deliver a sweeping movie suite from this 1998 dramatic picture that is both lushly orchestrated as well as dramatically inspiring.  As usual, I refuse to discuss the motion picture, leaving that for others, but if there were any short-comings, it can not be blamed on the music. With a timing of 23:31, if you haven't ever heard this, then it is time!  All I can say is, that I hope that you really enjoy!  -MJ

PS: This is not the musical version from 2013.

APE FILES (LOSSLESS):

MP3 FILES (HIGH QUALITY):

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Mask of Zorro, The Movie Suite

Mask of Zorro, The Suite
Music by James Horner

With a swiftness that enhances his ability to deliberately put the listener into the center of the action, Mr. Horner has delivered us a movie suite with gorgeous Spanish themes that is at once uplifting and inspiring.  With a few minutes of love and a fun chase thrown in for good measure, the main theme is repeated enough to draw every note together to form a cohesive whole.  With a timing of 31:41, added to the sequel, The Legend of Zorro, found in my next post, you have James Horner's symphonic, Zorro.  At least until the next one comes out.  Until then, hope you enjoy.  -MJ

APE FILES:

MP3 FILES:

Legend of Zorro, The Movie Suite

Legend of Zorro, The Suite
Music by James Horner

The second incarnation of this unique sequel is filled with the textures of Spanish conquistadors intertwined with Mr. Horner's involving action cues.  Together we're delivered a movie suite that is engagingly listenable as well as unique.  With a timing of 29:21, this stands by itself, but it can and should be taken together with the movie suite from The Mask of Zorro and you now have the second movement in James Horner's symphonic, Zorro. At least you could if you wanted to.  At the very least, I hope you enjoy this.  -MJ

APE FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/8t2095fcquhg47e/LgndofZrr%2CTSte.zip

MP3 FILES:

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Far and Away Movie Suite

Far and Away Suite
Music by John Williams

Although this motion picture is about many locales, much of it also takes place in New York City, which is keeping with our current theme.  I think that it is a good thing that this is unmistakably John Williams, since this movie suite has a lyrical main theme (which is reminiscent of the legendary Raiders theme) that puts the listener into the old-Irish frame of mind of the main characters, while sweeping us along the musical journey as it winds it's way through the steady paces of one form or another.  If you haven't heard this music before, you must add it to your library. With a timing of 21:34, this seems to it grows on you from one listen to the next and before you know it, you've found another movie suite that you love.  I really hope you enjoy.  After all, isn't that what life is all about?  -MJ

APE FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/fdz6hms8adgn0lp/FrNAwySte.zip

MP3 FILES:

Sunday, June 6, 2010

The Age Of Innocence Movie Suite

Age of Innocence, The Suite
Music by Elmer Bernstein

Since we seem to be in a New York state of mind, here is another movie suite from a motion picture that takes place in another time and place; a time of elegance, innocence and a place that was growing into a world class city of distinction.  This is the first suite we'll call: Soft n Cuddly (SnC)!  Mr. Berstein took a softer approach with flowing waltzes and softly rising strings to paint a passionate picture of Love found, Love attempted and Love lost, with a hope filled climax that get's one going to do it all over again. There are many other SnC movie suites floating around which we will get to as time allows.  Put this on some Sunday morning during brunch or whenever you want to relax (I don't mean sleep) to some excellent movie music. With a timing of 22:59, I hope that you'll enjoy.  -MJ

APE FILES:

MP3 FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/r3nfaibg8cq27s1/AgeOfInnocenceSuite%2CThe.mp3

Gangs Of New York Movie Suite

Gangs of New York Suite
Music by Howard Shore; Peter Gabriel

Once upon a time a team of composers scored a motion picture that was filled with the interesting sound of electric guitars, droning bagpipes, sexy string motifs and just about anything else found laying around.  The resulting movie suite is presented here in all its gloriousness and insane musicality. My biggest complaint is that there should have been more to share, but this is all there is, except for some vocal selections and short folk dances, that did not belong in an orchestral suite.  Some may ask, "what about the guitar work, why does that belong?" You'll have to ask either Mr. Shore or Mr. Gabriel for that answer.  With a timing of just 13:20, this is fun and interestingly entertaining.  Hope you enjoy!  -MJ

APE FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/7z52zct2ytm9f32/GngsOfNwYrkSte.zip

MP3 FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/640h4jmu3nvjghz/GangsOfNewYorkSuite.mp3

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Rocketeer Movie Suite

Rocketeer Suite
Music by James Horner

Lately, it's been difficult to put up a new blog, but today we are rewarded for our perseverance as we return with a heroic movie suite that gives new meaning for building to a conclusion.  Mr. Horner starts us with a lyrically lone piano that blends into the main theme that is a nod to the serial movies of the golden age of motion pictures.  Before we know it, we're drawn into an emotional roller coaster as the music soars from tenderness to outright attack before settling into a steady conclusion that lasts for half of the work. It is all in great fun!  With a timing of 32:30 this will leave you contently with fond memories. I hope that you enjoy.  -MJ

APE FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ogrwdkkdy26xep1/RcktrM0Ste.zip

MP3 FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/r0p07ly0lkbuieu/RocketeerSuite.mp3

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Hidalgo Movie Suite

Hidalgo Suite
Music by James Newton Howard

As we ride into the sun, we take another exciting movie suite from Mr. Howard that is thrilling, while evoking the sun-drenched vistas of sweeping sands that were the backdrop for this motion picture. The music is about a race, for a man and his constant companion, his horse, Hidalgo.  We are taken on a journey into the far away lands of desert and untouchable women.  With a timing of just 14:14 it passes us by in a flash. It's okay, you can enjoy it again and again.  -MJ

APE FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/qwidahk33iojvst/HdlgM0Ste.zip

MP3 FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/mknx3k4cs73n9gr/HidalgoSuite.mp3

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Dinosaur Movie Suite

Dinosaur Suite
Music by James Newton Howard

If someone has not heard of this little animated film, that's not too surprising, but if you haven't heard the music that accompanied the picture, then here is a movie suite that will give you a good idea of what you may have missed.  Mr. Howard starts slowly as if he wants us to experience the creative flow before consistently building into a swift moving pace that carries the remainder of the work.  Utilizing the orchestra with a sparse spattering of voices, we are quickly carried along before the sudden ending only 16:31 later. Although this isn't my favorite, it's a good listen once in awhile.  I hope you enjoy.  -MJ

APE FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/u1o2ozdtntel053/DnsrSte.zip

MP3 FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/983f4bzataisgfo/DinosaurSuite.mp3

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

The Great Train Robbery Movie Suite

Great Train Robbery, The Suite
Music by Jerry Goldsmith

For once, we are going to go back and discuss a wonderful movie suite that has graced the files of my hard-drive for awhile now. When this movie came out in 1979, I saw it on the big screen and was thrilled with the way the music was so integral to the action. As soon as possible, the vinyl LP was added to my collection and once I began putting movie suites to cassette, this one was one of the first.  Unfortunately, the CD for this was not easy to locate, but recently it was found.  With a spunky attitude that is at once upbeat and a bit quirky, Mr. Goldsmith blended a quasi-gaslight sound of the horns with orchestral bliss that seems to work.  The cello riff that makes up the main theme is catchy and as you hear it throughout, you'll have a hard time getting it out of your head.  With a timing of  22:11, I certainly hope you'll enjoy this one, too.  -MJ

APE FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/q1blqmahtn4hzru/GrtTrnRbbry%2CThSte.zip

MP3 FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/n15bneq7smkhvkb/GreatTrainRobbery%2CTheSuite.mp3


Monday, April 26, 2010

Alice In Wonderland Movie Suite

Alice In Wonderland Suite
Music by Danny Elfman

The movie suite from this fresh release certainly tested my meddle.  As a lover of orchestral music, the addition of choral voices raised in song, chant or support rarely excites Sir Malcolm, so when he was working on this movie suite it was with some measure of frustration.  It was perplexing. Should all of the voices be edited away or should I leave the voices as the composer meant to be heard?  Of course there are many instances when the voices must stay in the music, most recently, Avatar immediately comes to mind, as well as so many others.  Unfortunately, for some reason Mr. Elfman's use of voice and choral in this work, seemed as if it were added as an afterthought.  Only he knows for certain, and the two of us haven't been speaking as of late, so after a long and tedious attempt to remove the voices, here is the movie suite for Alice In Wonderland with the voices intact.  Just as it should be.  There are some wonderfully catchy themes throughout that beg you to hum along with, even long after the music has stopped playing. With a timing of 29:12, you'll be humming "ALICE" long afterwards, too! Hope you enjoy!  -MJ

APE FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/x6qyztqgnyrnj5l/AlcInWndrlndSte.zip

MP3 FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/fbjpt8c45x2hh34/AliceInWonderlandSuite.mp3

Monday, April 12, 2010

The Curse of the Black Pearl Movie Suite - Pirates of the Caribbean

Pirates of the Caribbean I Suite
Music by Klaus Badelt

Here's another trilogy of excellent movie music.  The swashbuckling exploits of Jack the Pirate come to us in this hard driving movie suite that is filled with side splitting riffs as well as some tender moments of mishandled love.  Mr. Badelt did himself proud with this music and we're glad he did, since the main theme not only helps carry the movie, but it is inspiring as well as memorable.  Although the main theme doesn't appear until almost 9:00 minutes in, it is obviously composed of bits of what you've been hearing already and will continue to hear as this roars to its eventual end.  Great work Klaus, we applaud you.  With a timing of 19:11 don't forget that this is just the first movie suite of the trilogy. Enjoy it!  -MJ

APE FILES:
MP3 FILES:

Dead Man's Chest Movie Suite - Pirates of the Caribbean


Pirates of the Caribbean II Suite
Music by Hans Zimmer

From the beginning notes of the lone fiddle (violin?) building into the full orchestra along with the help of an amped-up electric guitar and chorus of raised voices, there is no doubt that Mr. Zimmer has taken the reins of this sequel and filled it with his own private relishes.  Although this sounds similar to the first music suite, it shares little with it.  Bombastic throughout the entirety, we race along until suddenly it abruptly stops. Whoa there, what happened?  Where did the music suite go?  I guess they want you to listen to the last music suite for the ending.  Hopefully we'll have that for your enjoyment very soon.  With a timing of 20:52 this is not the most thematic compositionally by this composer, but it's alot of fun.  I hope you enjoy.  -MJ

APE FILES:

MP3 FILES:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/mxwiyxfwx2ox9y3/PiratesOfTheCaribbean2Suite.mp3