Rambo III (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) cover

Rambo III (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

Jerry Goldsmith · 1988

76 min · 23 tracks · classical · contemporary classical music

Epic orchestral arrangements blend with Eastern motifs, evoking the intensity of war and the drama of heroism.

Why this album works

The 'Rambo III' soundtrack is notable for its integration of cultural elements that reflect the film's Afghan setting, highlighting Goldsmith's versatility and attention to detail. While not as commercially successful as its predecessors, the score received positive acclaim for its orchestration and thematic depth, influencing future action film soundtracks by blending different musical traditions.
Best for
dynamic journey with climaxes wave-like pacing throughout album evokes intensity of heroism
Context
By 1988, Jerry Goldsmith was an established composer, known for his work on films like 'Star Trek: The Motion Picture' and 'The Omen'. 'Rambo III' followed his Academy Award win for 'The Omen', marking a continued evolution in his cinematic scoring. This soundtrack reflects Goldsmith's ability to fuse diverse musical influences, particularly Middle Eastern sounds, into his orchestral style.
Stylistic neighbors
Wojciech Kilar· Jean Sibelius· Nino Rota

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Another Time 3:57
  • 2 Preparations 6:20
  • 3 The Money 0:51
  • 4 I’m Used To It 1:00
  • 5 Pesha War 1:11
  • 6 Afganistan 2:37
  • 7 Questions 3:37
  • 8 Then I’ll Die 3:33
  • 9 The Game 2:24
  • 10 Flaming Village Standout 4:07
  • 11 The Aftermath 2:44
  • 12 Night Entry 3:58
  • 13 Under And Over 2:55
  • 14 Night Flight Standout 6:49
  • 15 First Aid 2:46
  • 16 The Long Climb 3:24
  • 17 Going Down 1:52
  • 18 The Cave 3:30
  • 19 The Boot 1:53
  • 20 You Did It John 1:07
  • 21 The Show Down 1:25
  • 22 Final Battle Standout 4:50
  • 23 I’ll Stay 9:00

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata