In Harm’s Way -Original Soundtrack CD Review
Reviewed by Chris McEneany, 31st July 2009
This is lean, mean but classic Goldsmith. The style, the excitement and the sense of time, place and character are fully in place and no fan of the movies’ most prolific, dedicated and accomplished composer can afford to let this one slip by. Historically important and damn fine fun, listening to In Harm’s Way is like discovering a world class talent in the raw as Goldsmith, himself, discovers exciting new ways of expression, tone and character. A short score on CD, it is true, but there is so much variety to it that it is impossible to ignore. The film, as enjoyable as it is, may be too melodramatic and soapish for some, but Goldsmith gives it heart and soul and imbues some of its most poignant moments with startlingly effective class and memorable distinction – all of which is ably demonstrated on Intrada’s fine CD presentation of the original album compilation.
Cues such as The Rock, Positive Identification, Goodbye, One-Way Ticket and, of course, First Victory stand as testament to the glories that Goldsmith would unleash in later years and, together with the more florid and passionate source sections of the score, add up to a wonderful and important release.
A limited edition, folks, but one that comes highly recommended.
