March 12, 2014

  • Goldsmith's "The Blue Max" Soars Again

    The last time The Blue Max (1966) appeared was in 2010 on a limited edition Intrada release.  One would have thought that was the last word on the need for a re-issue.  Of course, by the time FSM published a review, it was already out of print!  So, there may still be a need for this new limited edition release from La-La Land.  In Intrada’s release, they were able to return to the 20th Century Fox vaults using both the original stereo and multi-track mixes.  The sound was simply fabulous greatly improving that of the Columbia special CD released back in 1990.  The sound was simply fabulous.  Other parts of this score have appeared over the years as well.  La-La Land has brought these back together to create a fuller listening experience.

    The first disc presents the score as it was originally intended allowing Goldsmith’s soaring theme to be fully enjoyed against all the exciting action music and thematic development from its stunning “Main Title” to the “Retreat” sequence now split into two tracks (rather than the single 7-minute one on the Intrada release).  A similar approach is used throughout allowing briefer sequences to be accessed individually rather than as an edited-together single experience (hence the “intended” final score moniker).  Some fans will certainly appreciate this approach and it will certainly make this release the one to own.

    Disc two allows for further exploration of source music.  First off, the complete 1966 soundtrack album is presented which will additionally free up some shelf space as it makes the Columbia release redundant now.  There are 7 additional source cues that are included here in Arthur Morton’s orchestrations and adaptations (song medleys, some Strauss, and a couple of marches).  Fans will also appreciate a final six tracks devoted to original and alternate takes: two of “The Attack” and “First Blood”, the combined parts of “Retreat” as has appeared in previous releases, and an alternate take of the “End Cast” music.

    Is this new edition a worthy addition to your Goldsmith collection?  Well, that depends on whether you have the Intrada and Columbia CDs.  This release essentially covers and easily replaces both of those discs thus freeing up space in one’s music library.  Julie Kirgo expands upon her Intrada essay.  Another selling point is a track-by-track explanation courtesy of Jeff Bond.  To state it again from my 2010 review of Intrada’s superb release, “The Blue Max really is one of the first indications of the greatness that was blossoming at this point in Goldsmith’s career.”  If you missed it the first time, give thanks that you still have a chance to enjoy this great 1960s score.