hen the movie Superman debuted in 1978, many science fiction fans
were awed by the exciting story line, the spectacular on-screen action and
the highly expressive melodies of composer John Williams. At that time, the soundtrack could be bought in a two-LP set, but due to marketing considerations and
the physical limitations of the vinyl format, that release lacked much of the
movie's music. A new two-CD set from Rhino Records and Warner Archives
rectifies that situation, for it contains not only the well-known works,
but also previously unavailable and alternate recordings of various themes
from the motion picture.
The collection, which presents the compositions in the order they
are heard in the film, opens with the "Prelude and Main Title
March." This piece showcases a quiet introductory passage before launching
into the rousing Superman fanfare. Similarly exhilarating tunes
include the heretofore unreleased "Star Ship Escapes," which ingeniously
incorporates elements from the opening melody, "Super Rescues," "Chasing
Rockets" and "Superfeats." Meaningful emotions are evident on
other cues, including "Lex Luthor's Lair," with its furtive, nervous tone,
"The Flying Sequence" and the passionate "Love Theme from
Superman."
In addition to 28 selections taken directly from the movie, the set also
features seven bonus tracks. These cuts spotlight alternate takes on works
such as "The Planet Krypton" and "Main Title March," along with a source cue
titled "Luthor's Luau" and versions of the pop hit "Can You Read My Mind." A
32-page booklet accompanies the CDs and contains extensive information about
the compositions.
Sounds of steel
Williams is renowned for so many remarkable scores it can be difficult to
recall the impact of his work on Superman . Yet the epic
melodies and larger-than-life themes he created for that picture are
positively stunning. Between those beloved motifs that are instantly
recognizable and the fresh, previously unavailable cues, there's little doubt that the Superman soundtrack is truly one of Williams's superlative creations.
Of course, the "Theme from Superman" is the most recognizable
selection, as it was the version heard on the original soundtrack recording.
However, various permutations of the work, such as the "Main Title March" and
"Superman March," possess subtle variations in arrangement and
orchestration that enable listeners to, at least in part, trace the
development of the composition. It's also enjoyable to hear how another
famous tune, the "Love Theme from Superman," is inventively interwoven
into other cuts, including two unreleased numbers titled "The Terrace" and
"Lois and Clark."
"The Big Rescue" is an equally remarkable (and formerly unavailable)
selection that, with its quivering violins and grand fanfare, imparts a
wonderful sense of tension and triumph. "Crime of the Century" showcases
significantly more lighthearted sentiments, incorporating deep bass and
plucked strings to convey the sneaky feel of the antics of Luthor and his gang.
The set's liner notes are also superb, providing insight and commentary from album
co-producer and film restoration expert Michael Matessino. Soundtrack
aficionados have long maintained that Williams' score to Superman is among his finest efforts. These CDs unequivocally confirm their claim.
