by Hard Target on 3/26/2000
favorite track: 7
 
After the smashing sucess of Die Hard in 1988, there was no doubt a sequel was inevitable. Thus, Die Hard 2 became one of the biggest blockbusters of 1990. While John McTiernan was not able to direct this electrifying sequel, the scoring duties once again rested in the ever-capable hands of Michael Kamen.

While Kamen's original Die Hard score centered around variations of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony and "Singing In The Rain," this sequel score features some of the same themes, this time expanded and charged a with a harsher edge than the playful original. Like Die Hard, this one is also based on "Finlanda," Sibelius' classical tone poem. This piece isn't always heard throughout the score - it's only used for a more subtle effect. "The Doll" features some dramatic and subdued hints to this piece.

Meanwhile, the original score isn't without its exciting action. With the help of no less than twelve orchestrators (?) featuring the likes of Don Davis, Chris Boardman and William Ross, you can easily say Kamen really let loose on this one.

The opening track, "Colonel Stuart," immediately sets the tone for the score. Growling woodwinds and brass lines, along with militaristic snare drums, will drive you up the wall. The best set pieces are featured in the propulsive cues, "The Runway," "Icicle" and the climatic "The Terminal." Unfortunately, the latter ends abruptly at the six minute mark and is missing the finale in which Bruce Willis' character literally gets the last laugh. Hopefully, this oversight will be corrected in Varese's upcoming Die Hard Trilogy album.

Kamen's adaptation of Silbelius' piece closes Varese's exciting album.