The Master: Part 2

So, we continue on our Jerry Goldsmith journey. There is just so much to him, that this is going to last a few more weeks.

A couple of posts backs I mentioned two of his concert compilations. Goldsmith was noted for how many concerts he directed of his own works. It’s certainly not rare among film composers, but he is one of the most prolific composers in this area.

His TV themes suites, or film suites are among the most famous, and he developed them more and more over the years, adding new pieces to it. So, again, I fully recommend “The Film Music of Jerry Goldsmith” (2001, Telarc) as the best starting point
Track: Motion Pictures Medley
(The Sand Pebbles, Chinatown, Air Force One, A Patch of Blue, Poltergeist, Papillon, Basic Instinct, The Wind and the Lion)


Wikipedia / IMDB


Relevant website

Jerry Goldsmith’s Soundtrack collector page

A couple of bio notes, and a portal to discover 300+ titles…


A Few more favorites

Coma
An interesting suspense title on his filmography, with a lite, but enjoyable love theme
Track: Love Theme


MacArthur
A classic title, very scarce unfortunately; almost an example of “euphoria militaris”
Track: MacArthur March


Looney Tunes – Back in action
His last score. True to the spirit of the film, sounds just like a classic looney tunes
Track: Dead Duck Walking


Logan’s Run
Does contain some futuristic sounds, but it’s his classical approach what makes this 70’s score so great.
Track: End of the City


Rambo III
Instead of going for leit-motifs, Goldsmith creates an abundant number of new themes for each of the sequels. You might be surprised by the quality of his work here
Track: Night Entry



Collectors corner, Must-Have & Small Gems

As the section indicates, here I’ll try to name 3 scores; the first, a difficult to find title, the second, is pretty much given, and the third, is a score that you may not think about that often (mainly due to the quality of the film), but it’s a surprising find.


Collector’s corner: Supergirl – Jerry Goldsmith
One of those great examples where the music might be better than the film itself. The following track showcases all three main themes in the movie (Supergirl’s, the love theme, and Selena’s monster theme)
Track: Overture


Must-Have: The Omen – Jerry Goldsmith
Jerry’s sole Oscar win came form this quintessential horror title. Gives me chills every time I listen to it.
Track: Ave Satani


Small Gems: Innerspace– Jerry Goldsmith
Only 25 mins of score, with 5 songs. And maybe just recycling other scores. But it is a perfect example and mix of what he can do, mixing themes for action, sci-fi and comedy
Track: Environmental adjust



Trivia


I had the privilege of seeing Jerry in concert twice. The second time, at the Hollywood Bowl, me and a friend finished the concert by screaming “Jerry, Jerry” a la Springer….