What makes The Aviator by Howard Shore notable?

The Aviator soundtrack received critical acclaim, contributing to Shore's reputation in the film industry and earning nominations for various awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media. Its blend of styles not only complemented Martin Scorsese's film but also captured the essence of the era, influencing how soundtracks could enhance cinematic storytelling. In 2005, Howard Shore was already an acclaimed composer known primarily for his work on film scores. The Aviator marked a significant point in his career as it showcased his ability to weave historical context into music, following his Oscar win for The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King in 2004. This soundtrack further established him as a versatile composer capable of blending genres creatively.

Who is The Aviator for?

The Aviator works well if you're into steady mid-tempo groove throughout, nostalgic echoes of classic cinema and lively tracks for social gatherings.

How many songs are on The Aviator?

The Aviator has 18 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.

The Aviator

Howard Shore · 2005

55 min · 18 tracks

A vibrant orchestral tapestry intertwining jazz, classical, and popular melodies that evoke the spirit of early 20th century America.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Moonglow — This track exemplifies Shore's skill in blending lush orchestration with nostalgic melodies, perfectly capturing the romantic atmosphere of the film's period.
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I Can't Give You Anything but Love — This rendition showcases vocal talent alongside orchestral arrangement, embodying the hopefulness and charm prevalent in early jazz standards.
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I'll Build a Stairway to Paradise — The lively instrumentation and joyful tempo create a sense of optimism, reflecting the aspirations of characters in the film and its historical context.
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Stardust — Shore’s arrangement brings out the song's poignant beauty, illustrating how emotional depth can be conveyed through rich orchestral textures.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo groove throughout
nostalgic echoes of classic cinema
lively tracks for social gatherings
uplifting melodies for sunny days
playful rhythms that invite dancing

Maybe skip if you

prefer high-energy instant gratification
seek experimental or avant-garde sounds

Where this album fits

Career context: In 2005, Howard Shore was already an acclaimed composer known primarily for his work on film scores. The Aviator marked a significant point in his career as it showcased his ability to weave historical context into music, following his Oscar win for The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King in 2004. This soundtrack further established him as a versatile composer capable of blending genres creatively.
Stylistic neighbors: John Williams· Hans Zimmer· Ennio Morricone

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Tracklist

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

1 Shake That Thing 2:59
2 I'll Build a Stairway to Paradise 3:12
3 Somebody Stole My Gal 3:13
4 Fireworks 2:30
5 Yellow Dog Blues 2:29
6 Thanks 3:16
7 Happy Feet 2:59
8 After You've Gone 3:09
9 Moonglow 3:25
10 I Can't Give You Anything but Love 3:21
11 Ain't Cha Glad 3:28
12 Nightmare 2:49
13 Stardust 3:28
14 Do I Worry? 2:41
15 I'll Be Seeing You 4:05
16 Back Beat Boogie 2:48
17 Moonlight Serenade 3:24
18 Howard Hughes 1:50

What to play next

Listen next

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse – The Score

2010

Go back to

Music From The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

2004

Full Howard Shore discography Where to start with Howard Shore Artists like Howard Shore

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata