Lockdown
10-22-2016, 05:50 AM
When Giacchino was announced as the composer for Doctor Strange, I was extremely excited. He has been such an inspiration for me, because I aspire to be a film composer someday myself. This is just a breath of fresh air, I never expected anything like this to make it into a Marvel film, the closest explorential theme I can think of within the MCU, is Ant-Man's theme, which I believe was terrifically structured.

When Marvel released 'The Master of the Mystic' (a.k.a. End Credits) on Tuesday, I was honestly not sure what to think of it, but honestly, this is some brilliant work here, just typing this up here brings me to shear tears. His music is so well thought out, in a small interview at the premiere of the film, he stated that he works alongside the director, to capture the emotions of the scenes, to create the perfect music for a specific scene, and I honestly had never thought that was a way to go about in writing music. I had always figured that composers would write music after viewing a scene, or reading a script, but it's actually a lot deeper than that; at least for Giacchino.

He takes the idea of viewing scenes or reading the film's script, and dives deeper within the actual realm of the world that is being portrayed. He wants to find the soul of each scene, and how it makes the viewer feel, which results in the type of music that he thinks is best to create. I definitely trust his judgement, and this excites me very much for the film, because I believe that with the combination of Cumberbatch and a Marvel film, we will get nothing but a masterpiece. I very much look forward to this film, because I think that it will be one of the best Marvel has done, to date.

To speak more about the 'baroque' style music, I believe, that in reference to how Chappie had 8-bit music, this has a side of music that truly describes and naturally brings out who Doctor Strange is, what he is created from, and his purpose in life. I truly feel that this is going to be harshly rated because of the strong sense of baroque music, but I think that people need to realize that Marvel has been lashed out by a lot of fans stating that their soundtracks are forgettable and whatnot, but answer this; "Will this music ever be forgotten?"

I think that even if this film may not do well, which definitely will not be the case, then it will be remembered for at least one thing, it's film score. And I believe that is awesome, and a first for a Marvel film, and even though those same fans had argued about how all of Marvel's film music was forgettable, they have finally answered your prayers, and you reject them. The world of music needs to stop being so judgemental, because this is work of craftsmanship, and I can tell that Giacchino put his heart and soul into this score, because I can definitely hear his tone throughout the score.

He will, and will always remain one of my biggest inspirations as an aspiring film composer, and I honeslty do not think that this music should be judged as harshly as it is currently. No, I don't think there are people who 'glorify' Giacchino, like some people could argue that there are Zimmer fanboys. I believe that Giacchino does not need that, he can stand on his own, with his own style, and be entirely successful in creating and setting a tone for a film just through story telling with his musical compositions. I am so glad that I got into film scores, because I do not think that I would be where I am now, if it weren't for them and my love and interest in music. I also feel like I have the ability to analyze his music, because I am at a state of mind, that without having previous interests or likes, can create an unbiased review of any film score that I feel the need to review.

I felt the need to review this score because this is as original as it gets, I honestly think this is the first time in years we have ever heard harpsichord used so prominently within a film score, in a film's setting. The only other one I can think of, was Peter Pettigrew's theme in Prisoner of Azkaban, by Williams. People need to stop being so judgmental on music, and broaden their horizons, because if they wanted original, and this is what is original, and they are disappointed, then do fans really seek to hear the same type of music in every film? Bombastic and electronic sounds that lead nowhere and usually have no thematic development or chord structure, because that seems to be what people enjoy, yet call unoriginal.

People are afraid of change, and if original is change, which this definitely is, I believe that everyone needs to be more open to listening to this score, viewing the film, and then proceeding to listen to this score again. Because, this is a masterpiece that no one should miss out on. I can already sense this being a highly underrated score, or maybe actually becoming an extreme holy grail or gem to some others. I have a feeling it will grow on most people who dislike it, most scores that are 'different' seem to do that nowadays.

Anyways, all in all, I think that before you trust the 1 star reviews that are about to come in, and are already here, you must think twice before agreeing with their opinions. Trust me, this is a score that you do not want to miss out on. I've rarely been wrong about music, because I feel as if I have the ear for music, and just know the difference between the good and bad.

This is all just my opinion of course, and anyone can disagree with me, but I honestly think that this deserves a second chance from some people, once you've viewed the film, and listened to the score again after viewing it, then I can accept that if you still don't like it. But don't be so quick as to reject something in life, as that can be the biggest mistake people can make in life, not that music could really be related to some situation like that. But I think that people in general need to refrain from being so judgmental, because you could be missing out on meeting some wonderful people, films, products, music, you name it.

And finally, here's my suite I compiled today, I tried to get it to flow as best as I could.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHG3foRDCoE

CLONEMASTER 6.53
10-22-2016, 05:53 AM
:this:

Not only well-written, but you've just described a lot of my exact feelings on many things, and have expressed them is a better way than I may at some point. Though I haven't gotten around to listening to this score yet, I plan to, and this review makes me want to even more.

And I only dream of what could soon be found within his work for Rogue One. I am very excited about that score, I don't think he'll let us down. It's a STAR WARS score, there's a lot of expectation for something of that brand.

tehƧP@ƦKly�ANK� -Ⅲ�
10-22-2016, 06:22 AM
This was one of the most refreshing soundtracks I've listened to as of late.

I love how it went all over the place from the first track, to the baroque, and the insane strange track.

I'm quite pleased with this release.
And definitely can't wait to hear it with the film.

I really love the piano music in this, as well.
He's always excelled at creating light and soul-capturing piano cues.

It was definitely as fun as Star Trek Into Darkness.

futhark
10-22-2016, 01:42 PM
Lockdown: I agree with what you've said in your post. I discussed this in my thread ("Alan Silvestri is returning to Marvel Cinematic Universe!!") earlier, and it seems that Marvel has taken the criticism to heart that the company doesn't have that many memorable themes for the heroes (with the exception of Cap, Avengers and Ant-Man)

There are also a couple of great clips on Youtube where the uploaders discussed just this problem - you can find them here:

"The Marvel Symphonic Universe"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vfqkvwW2fs
"A Theory of Film Music"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcXsH88XlKM
"Marvel Music: The Thematic Continuity Issue"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVRiofzRErc

I've listened to the score, and it is quite original - using elements of some psychedelick rock (Pink Floyd and The Beatles' I Am The Walrus)and baroque style really makes it an interesting experience, and most importantly, differentiates itself from other Marvel movies/making its own identity within the MCU-parameters.

He also has these queues that makes me really immerse myself in the listening experience, like the track "Smote and Mirrors" - just listen from 00:56 to 1:31 and 03:31 to 04:19 with the pulsating bass line. It's the little moments that I really enjoy!

I try normally not to have any expectations going to a theater, but listening to this score(especially the theme song) I believe we're in for a trippy ride! :)

TheSkeletonMan939
10-22-2016, 02:53 PM
Thanks for the insight Lockdown! I've yet to listen myself but I know I'm in for a treat.
The end credits track alone was a breath of fresh air, and made the bad taste of Jackman's stinker Civil War score leave my mouth.
Faith in MCU music = restored.

gururu
10-22-2016, 03:47 PM
Just for the record, Lockdown: I applaud you for taking the time and consideration to share your thoughts on the score with us. I don't necessarily agree with you, but that's beside the point.

TheSkeletonMan939
10-29-2016, 09:57 PM
I've just listened to it myself; here's my take (it's essentially just a bunch of random thoughts not in any particular order):

To all those like myself who found the last entry in the Marvel musical canon (Civil War) a drag, let me begin by saying that this time, the score is worth listening to the whole way through. With a few exceptions, I can say Giacchino steers clear of predictable or "trendy" sound the MCU has been so infamously identified as having. (Although one track ["The Eyes Have It"] sounds like it was lifted right out of last year's Sicario!) The track "Mystery Training" in particular explores musical constructions and instrumentation that I don't believe we've heard in the MCU.

Indeed, Giacchino takes full advantage of the Doctor's unusual adventures and crafts a somewhat eclectic score to pair with them. Most often he manages to capture the bizarre atmosphere with grace; but when he doesn't, it's horribly grating. The distorted chanting at the end of track 3 ("A Long Strange Trip") is not music. It's sound design and does not belong on a soundtrack CD. But the harpsichord, for instance, is used to great effect and the only other score I know of that uses it to such an extent is, as Lockdown mentioned, Williams's third Harry Potter. It sounds wonderful. Harp glissandos also give this score a wonderfully un-Marvelish texture. Electric guitars are somehow used rather tastefully. I began to notice the strings as being particularly impressive. They command the listener's interest right from the beginning of track 1 (before devolving into an instantly bothersome, fast-paced rhythm 40 seconds in). Why does Giacchino rehash his boring brassy sound all the time when he has a talent for writing such alluring violins?

I was worried the choir would be of the "le epic!!!" variety you find in crappy trailer music but it is surprisingly well-grafted into the score and rarely feels out of place. Great job with that, actually. It feels far too contrived in the opening half of "Sanctimonius Sanctum Sacking" but works in other tracks quite well.

The album presentation is remarkable; it is for the most part highly fluid and makes for a solid hour of material. The action stuff is spread evenly throughout so as to avoid being fatiguing until the end; 55 minutes would have been preferable to 65. And of course, the puns are top-notch and absolutely ridiculous! :) The main theme is conveyed intelligently and naturally several times, though the score would still hold up well even without one.

There are a few bumps but overall it looks like Giacchino has shown that he is able to still write intelligent and surprisingly enveloping music. 7/10.

P.S. This doesn't make me any less concerned about his being assigned to Rogue One, though. I have listened to very little nu-Giacchino but I am told that I'm not missing much. Also, his Marvel Studios fanfare is terrible. Terrible! What happened to Tyler's?

CLONEMASTER 6.53
10-29-2016, 10:16 PM
Another well written review! :)

I've barely listened to any of the score yet (surprising, as I've still been compelled by what you two and others have had to say), but following that I do, I'll post my sentiments here as well, but don't count on what I have to say being adequately expressive.

---------- Post added at 04:16 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:11 PM ----------


P.S. This doesn't make me any less concerned about his being assigned to Rogue One
What I myself am hoping to hear is music reminiscent to Medal of Honor: Airborne, and maybe Call of Duty and Jupiter Ascending (if his dissonant and / or frantic action style shows up).

ManRay
10-29-2016, 10:24 PM
VGM Composers do it better

TheSkeletonMan939
10-29-2016, 10:24 PM
Give me two or three to check out, ManRay!

ManRay
10-29-2016, 11:05 PM
Let's ease you into it :laugh:

Harry Gregson : Metal Gear Solid 3 Original Soundtrack : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7rAfIRzTHs

This One i'm sure you're familiar with : Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword [FULL SOUNDTRACK] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JLLUQ03RWro)

Wintory is godlike, he's been recruited for Movies lately : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3hFN8UrBPw

Shadow of the Colossus because it's the Shit : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sgWbtU8oqE

Chose fully orchestrated OSTs for you...

Me ? I am a Hack, but liking this one kinda redeems me (i hope) Welcome Aboard The U.S.G. Ishimura (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfbV6sSrn_4)

Pretty sure i singlehandedly ruined VGMs Reputation with this Post, i know fuck all about subtle Nuances and good composing.. :notgood: