What makes X-Men: First Class – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack by Henry Jackman notable?

The soundtrack received critical acclaim for its ability to enhance the film's narrative while standing alone as an impressive musical work. It contributed to the film's overall success, which grossed over $350 million worldwide and revitalized the X-Men franchise, demonstrating the importance of music in modern superhero films. By 2011, Henry Jackman had established himself as a notable film composer, transitioning from working alongside established composers to leading projects independently. X-Men: First Class was his breakout score, showcasing his ability to blend traditional orchestration with contemporary themes, marking a significant moment in his career trajectory.

How many songs are on X-Men: First Class – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack?

X-Men: First Class – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack has 20 tracks, running approximately 60 minutes.

X-Men: First Class – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

Henry Jackman · 2011

60 min · 20 tracks · film score

A sweeping orchestral score infused with tension, elegance, and emotional depth that mirrors the complex dynamics of a superhero origin story.

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Top tracks — play these first

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First Class — The opening track sets the tone for the entire score, introducing thematic elements that reflect the characters' journeys and emotional stakes.
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Rise Up to Rule — This piece encapsulates the film’s climactic moments, blending grandeur with tension to underscore pivotal character decisions.
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Cerebro — Utilizing a haunting melody, this track highlights the psychological depth of the characters while enhancing the film's exploration of identity and power.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The score effectively combines orchestral elements to create an engaging narrative experience, though it may not stand out significantly in the genre.

What we noticed

Several tracks build tension through gradual crescendos, often layering instruments to enhance emotional impact.
The running time includes distinct thematic motifs that recur in various forms, providing cohesion while allowing for dynamic shifts in mood.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

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

1 First Class 3:21
2 Pain and Anger 2:59
3 Would You Date Me? 1:45
4 Not That Sort of Bank 3:28
5 Frankenstein's Monster 3:03
6 What Am I Thinking? 2:10
7 Cerebro 2:24
8 Mobilise for Russia 1:19
9 Rise Up to Rule 5:57
10 Cold War 3:21
11 X-Training 4:27
12 Rage and Serenity 2:07
13 To Beast or Not to Beast 4:48
14 True Colours 1:50
15 Let Battle Commence 4:45
16 Sub Lift 2:19
17 Coup d'État 2:15
18 Mutant and Proud 3:27
19 X-Men 2:58
20 Magneto 1:53

What to play next

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Puss in Boots – Music from the Motion Picture

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata