by Swashbuckler on 2/15/2000
favorite track: 7
 
According to the liner notes, Benny Herrmann once said this was "the score of a lifetime." That is very possible. This is one of the most entertaining scores ever written.

The main theme for the Cossacks is an exuberant tune that is based in Russian Gypsy folk music (which Waxman had a chance to study just before composing the score). This music recurs in several guises throughout the film, the most rousing being the justly famous "The Ride to Dubno," the centerpiece of this score (note: do not listen to this track while driving, it may induce your foot to press very hard against the gas pedal and cause accidents and ticketing).

There is a love theme called "The Wishing Star," which has lyrics by Mack David. This theme very attractive, and is vitally important as a more lyrical response to the violent Cossack theme. One of the most charming variations of it is the Christmas-style presentation we hear in "The Sleighride."

There is a pastorale theme (Waxman refers to it as a lullabye) as well, which scores Taras Bulba's home life. It appears on the album in the ethereal "The Birth of Andrei" and the moving "Leaving Home." Occupying a melodic space somewhere between the Cossack theme and "The Wishing Star," this music accompanies moments where Taras Bulba's dreams and ambitions may be about to come true... or dashed to pieces. It is given a dramatic reading at the end of the album.

The most important aspects of the score are represented on the album, although in the film there are several great cues and interesting Cossack songs that might round out an expanded edition of the original recording of this score.

The album is a rerecording with a smaller orchestra than that used in the film. Regardless, the performance here is so spirited and fun that the amount of players becomes almost inconsequential. As usual with RykoDisc releases, the sound is fantastic. The booklet includes the original LP liner notes by Franz Waxman that were never issued, giving a comprehensive breakdown of the tracks and includes musical score examples.

This is a great album and a wonderful score.