The soundtrack to the Golden Compass lies, as the book does, with recurring themes. The key of each piece within the music seems relatively similar to each- even though the music is an auditory pleasure, there are few themes and variations thereof. Having said this, the music is entirely relative to the film; Mrs Coulter’s theme is sinister and quiet, and gives a feeling of hidden danger and cautious approach, perfectly matching both the character and the portrayal. Lord Asriel, on the other hand, gives no such hidden agenda. The theme is strong and powerful, bringing back the melodies seen in the first few pieces, only this time low brass and loud percussion lend a majestic air to the piece.
Often new motifs are introduced by harp glissandos from low to high notes, flute runs and great swelling of the musical direction that occasionally puts John Williams’ famous style into mind. Within some tracks, there is chorale support to the main theme, which further adds to the multitude of parts, and lends a beautiful addition to the main strings.
Although the main theme of a film is a crucial element to any soundtrack, there should still be variety in key, tone and even genre throughout a film to suit the situation, but in most instances, the recurring theme of the film remains the same. Regardless, the music still holds the audience captivated within cinema, and it turns out to be surprisingly easy listening as a soundtrack alone- easier than a lot of Mozart music. The lows are deep and supply a great backing to the beautiful floating and melodious tune- the repeating theme is, in most instances, a light and airy motif. The orchestra is most definitely competent- a whole range of artistic tones is used, from pizzicato (plucked) strings to a whole dynamic range.
The music in the film does gradually become more of the same towards the end of the disc, however, it has given a real insight into the symbolism of the films – although the melodies are quite simple and easy to listen to, there are far deeper motifs below. The repeated main theme lends a great sense of comfort to the listener- that although there are many subtle differences between this soundtrack and others, there are great similarities and give a feel of the familiar- and perfectly sums up the alternate universe the film is set within.
Review from HisDarkMaterials.org staff member ArcT (Dave)
6 comments - Add yours
#1
Sounds good to me. I’m still looking forward to hear and see the movie.
Thanks for all the work! It’s very good of you to share with us less fortunate who don’t get to attend the early screenings ;P
# November 25, 2007 00:48 by Advo
#2
Nice… very nice. Cheers guys.
# November 25, 2007 00:50 by æno
#3
The soundtrack sounds mellow, peaceful, and relaxing...which is what I was expecting it to sound like.
I’m definitely going to buy it on the day it comes out.
# November 25, 2007 01:13 by cantado
#4
Forgive me for asking, but when does it come out?
# November 25, 2007 02:17 by Rubyducky
#5
Rubyducky, I believe the soundtrack is scheduled to come out on the eleventh of December.
# November 25, 2007 02:18 by cantado
#6
Soundtrack is absolutely spectacular - loved the music throughout. But that ending song ‘Lyra’ just doesn’t get better. I could do without hearing that again.
# November 25, 2007 13:54 by Phit