n addition to the incredible, though at times silly, adventures of the Robinson family, many Lost in Space fans also fondly
remember the dynamic orchestral music that accompanied the program. A few
years ago, GNP/Crescendo Records issued a six-CD boxed set titled The
Fantasy Worlds of Irwin Allen that devoted two discs to the
series. However, the show's admirers clamored for even more melodies, and
this new album offers themes from a pair of classic episodes, "The Derelict"
and "My Friend Mr. Nobody."
The first 11 tracks are derived from "The Derelict," and include works
by four composers. Along with John Williams' famous
"Lost in Space Main Title - Season One" theme, eerie trills and
ominous effects accentuate cues like "Rescued From Space," a haunting tune
written by Richard LaSalle that's paired with Herman Stein's dire "The Comet
Cometh" cue. Hans J. Salter incorporates a slightly more forceful approach on
his selections, especially "Filmy Spider Web/Crystalline Power Source," which
utilizes spooky percussion and shivering strings to a generate a truly scary
scenario.
Williams provided all of the music for "My Friend Mr. Nobody," and the
five cuts allotted to that tale showcase numerous tender moments. "Wonderful
Discovery" introduces a gentle flute motif, while "Mother & Daughter/Penny's
Problem" opens with a portentous horn solo that quickly gives way to a
pleasant yet foreboding theme. The collection concludes with a brief bonus
track spotlighting an "Unused 2nd Season Main Title" from composer Warren
Barker.
Warm musical memories
Although producer Irwin Allen had a reputation for presenting lowbrow
science fiction TV fare, he consistently managed to employ imaginative
musicians when creating the soundtracks for his programs. Lost in
Space is certainly no exception. The melodies on this CD are evocative
and engaging, inviting listeners not only to recall thrilling on-screen
moments, but also appreciate the extraordinary ingenuity of the composers.
"Derelict Title/Don Rescues John and Maureen," penned by
Stein and LaSalle respectively, is a superb example of that artistry. Ghostly woodwinds
conjure an uncanny sense of desolation that's both apprehensive and
attractive. Tension builds as the work becomes increasingly agitated,
enhancing the anxiety before an upbeat salvation motif appears. Salter's
climactic "Lift Off" is equally gratifying, opening with a rumbling hubbub
that fitfully swells until a lighthearted and triumphant theme emerges,
signaling a successful launch.
Williams' melodies for "My Friend Mr. Nobody" are also outstanding, especially
"Penny's Cave/To The Cave/Gathering Wild Flowers/Moving Rocks." This series
of connected cues intermingles a soft flute with wavering strings, cleverly
combining childlike innocence with a subtle sense of danger. In fact, the
only negative observation regarding this collection has nothing to do with
the music: A manufacturing defect leaves a silent, six-minute "mystery track"
tacked onto the end of the CD. (Perhaps an example of what the tunes might
sound like in the vacuum of outer space?) Otherwise, Lost in
Space: Vol. 3 is an impressive and delightful disc offering both
wonderful music and warm memories.
