ith contemporary science-fiction TV programs filled with cutting-edge computer animation and state-of-the-art special effects, the idea of marionettes playing the lead roles in a high-tech adventure seems awfully quaint. The concept was admittedly strange (though not unheard of) in 1965, too, when Thunderbirds debuted in England. A key element in helping audiences to suspend their disbelief was undoubtedly the music, crafted specifically for the show by composer Barry Gray. These tunes have recently been issued on CD as the first volume in a proposed series of recordings devoted to producer Gerry Anderson's legendary "SuperMarionation" creations.
The famed "5 ... 4 ... 3 ... 2 ... 1 ... Thunderbirds are go!" vocal countdown opens the distinctive "Main Titles" cue, fueled by a percussive motif that reappears throughout the collection in altered form on numbers like "Monorail to Disaster," "Rescue!" and "FAB 1 Pursuit." At the same time, familiar melodies unexpectedly emerge inside other compositions: snatches of "London Bridge Is Falling Down" and Frédéric Chopin's "Piano Sonata No. 2" surface within the "'Vault of Death' Suite," while a concise "Oh Susanna" snippet livens up the rustic "Jeremiah and Lady Penelope." Among the remaining tracks, slinky lyrics ignite the torch song "Dangerous Game," with the laid-back "Let's Play Ad Lib" and "The Tracy Lounge Piano" highlighting tranquil, jazz-imbued moments.
More than two-dozen images from the show adorn the liner notes, which contain a few general observations about Gray—a full biography is promised over the course of future installments—plus an extensive narrative from album co-producer Ralph Titterton outlining the fortuitous discovery of the long-lost master tapes. The text also features succinct yet enlightening remarks about all 22 cuts on the disc.
Rousing but often repetitive
From the live-action Hollywood picture presently in production and an updated TV series in development to a trendy exhibition currently touring Japan, Thunderbirds clearly has continuing universal appeal. This "world premiere" CD reveals a potent reason for the show's unprecedented popularity, as almost every piece displays a sly wit and feisty enthusiasm that's remarkably invigorating and infectious.
"Thunderbirds Are Go!" is an effervescent jingle brimming with regal brass and methodical drums. Introduced on the debut adventure, "Trapped in the Sky," and subsequently incorporated (in edited form) into later episodes, it's a terrific track that eloquently signals dignity and danger. A similarly taut feel is achieved on numbers like the edgy "Sun Probe" and, via shuddering strings and a relentless rhythm, the nerve-racking "Fireflash Landing." This excitement is nicely balanced by a mischievous sense of humor, readily evident on such tunes as "The Man From MI.5," which, through stealthy horns and a smooth guitar, playfully mocks the celebrated James Bond theme, and "Lady Penelope on the Move," a lighthearted romp specifically recorded for, but never actually used on, the original soundtrack LP.
In fact, the album's only significant shortcoming is the persistent duplication, in various guises, of the program's main motif. Although it's initially stirring, Gray incessantly reinterprets this melody, leading to works that, despite clever arrangements coupled with unusual instrumentation—including such odd accordion-like contraptions as the Cordovox and Transicord—periodically become tiresome. Still, for fans of the show, Thunderbirds does not disappoint, offering a nostalgic and generally engaging musical overview of this enduring "SuperMarionation" series.
