How to Train Your Dragon 2: Music from the Motion Picture cover

How to Train Your Dragon 2: Music from the Motion Picture

John Powell · 2014

71 min · 20 tracks · film score

A sweeping orchestral journey that captures the emotional highs and thrilling adventures of dragon and rider.

Why this album works

The soundtrack debuted at number 1 on the Billboard Top Soundtracks chart and received critical acclaim for its complex orchestration and emotional depth. It was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Score, solidifying Powell's reputation as a leading composer in animated films.
Best for
dynamic peaks of orchestral drama adventurous spirit for imaginative minds sweeping melodies for epic journeys
Context
By the time of this release, John Powell had already established himself as a prominent film composer with notable works like 'Shrek' and 'The Bourne Identity'. 'How to Train Your Dragon 2' marked his return to the franchise after the success of the original score in 2010, showcasing his ability to expand on thematic elements while introducing new motifs.
Stylistic neighbors
Bear McCreary· Joseph Trapanese· Hans Zimmer

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Dragon Racing Standout 4:34
  • 2 Together We Map the World 2:19
  • 3 Hiccup the Chief / Drago’s Coming 4:44
  • 4 Toothless Lost 3:28
  • 5 Should I Know You? 1:56
  • 6 Valka’s Dragon Sanctuary 3:19
  • 7 Losing Mom / Meet the Good Alpha 3:24
  • 8 Meet Drago 4:26
  • 9 Stoick Finds Beauty 2:33
  • 10 Flying With Mother 2:49
  • 11 For the Dancing and the Dreaming Standout 3:06
  • 12 Battle of the Bewilderbeast Standout 6:26
  • 13 Hiccup Confronts Drago 4:06
  • 14 Stoick Saves Hiccup 2:23
  • 15 Stoick’s Ship 3:48
  • 16 Alpha Comes to Berk 2:20
  • 17 Toothless Found 3:46
  • 18 Two New Alphas 6:06
  • 19 Where No One Goes 2:44
  • 20 Into a Fantasy 3:32

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata