Music for a Darkened Theatre: Film & Television Music Volume One
Danny Elfman · 1990
73 min · 17 tracks · new wave · ska
A vibrant collection of whimsical themes and dark orchestral pieces that define cinematic storytelling.
Why this album works
The album is significant not only for highlighting Elfman's early contributions to film music but also for its influence on the sound of 1990s cinema. It has been praised for its innovative approach to scoring, helping to popularize orchestral soundtracks in mainstream films, and solidifying Elfman's reputation within the industry.
- Best for
- dynamic orchestral storytelling experience whimsical themes for imagination dark atmospheres with playful twists
- Context
- When 'Music for a Darkened Theatre: Film & Television Music Volume One' was released in 1990, Danny Elfman was establishing himself as a leading composer for film, following the success of his work on 'Pee-wee's Big Adventure' and 'Beetlejuice'. This album marks his first compilation of film scores, showcasing his unique blend of new wave sensibilities and orchestral arrangements.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Neil Young· Alanis Morissette· Green Day· Weezer· Frank Zappa· Iggy Pop· Yoko Ono· John Mayer
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Pee-wee’s Big Adventure: Overture / Breakfast Machine / Clown Dream / Drive-In 7:02
- 2 Batman: Batman Theme / Up the Cathedral / Descent Into Mystery Standout 8:25
- 3 Dick Tracy: Main Titles 3:04
- 4 Beetlejuice: Main Titles / End Titles Standout 3:43
- 5 Nightbreed: Main Titles / Meat for the Beast / End Titles 7:03
- 6 Darkman: Main Titles / Woe the Darkman, Woe 6:55
- 7 Back to School: Study Montage 1:30
- 8 Midnight Run: Walsh Gets the Duke / Main Titles / Diner Blues 4:43
- 9 Wisdom: Change of Life / Close Call in Albuquerque 4:40
- 10 Hot to Trot: Main Titles / Wandering Don 2:22
- 11 Big Top Pee-wee: Main Titles / Rise ’n Shine / Pee-wee’s Love Theme 5:24
- 12 The Simpsons: Theme Standout 1:31
- 13 Alfred Hitchcock Presents: The Jar: Suite 3:21
- 14 Tales From the Crypt: Theme 1:29
- 15 Face Like a Frog: Suite 2:09
- 16 Forbidden Zone: Love Theme 1:16
- 17 Scrooged: Main Titles / Show Time at IBC / Elliot Gives Blood / Walter Ablaze / Wild Cab Ride / Luncheonette / Asylum / Crematorium 8:42
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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