Customer Reviews

Heart Of The Ocean: The Film Music of James Horner

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While most people have not come to realise James Horner's talent for composing great film scores until the mega-success of "Titanic," this album suceeds in revealing the diversity of his music prior to this. However, it is misleading when it states "original soundtracks" since only one track (6) was actually conducted by James Horner.

While the other musicians perform his compostions to a remarkable degree of accuracy, the 'special' sound of James Horner and his film orchestra is hard to match, especially evident in such pieces as the piano solo "The Portrait" from "Titanic" performed in this album by Mark Northam -which seems to lack that vital peice of emotion as heard in the original film score.

What makes this album work, however, is the diversity of the compilation, giving the listener an insight into James Horner's diversity of music prowess. But it would work better if they were indeed "original" soundtracks and not other musicians attempting to copy his style -a task that can only be completed by the master himself.

If you really enjoy James Horner, I recommend listening to the originals. But if you want to hear a broad range of his styles, then this album is a worthy purchase.

For all of the "Titanic" music fans, the writing of James Horner reached stardom with this musical score....but it is not his best effort. If you are familiar with the movie "Glory", the score for this movie wraps you in emotion. This seems to be the trademark of James Horner. He has the keen and unique ability to take the story and fashion his music to the story situation, the time and the era. He is one of my heros...he has a fantastic writing ability. So...if you enjoyed Titanic, pick up the musical score for "Glory" and also consider "Legends Of The Fall." Enjoy!!

I am buying this for a gift. I have happily owned it for 2 or more years and I must say that this is one of the most well rounded, rewarding collections of instrumentals that I have ever heard on one disc. I currently own 766 L.P.'s and 752 C.D.'s so I am not without some background in music appreciation in all styles of music. I listen to all types from Klezmer to jazz to Zydeco and classical, not to mention new age and rock. No matter what your favorite style may be you can't go wrong with this C.D. It will also make a great introductory piece for youngsters or anyone that you want to introduce to light classical music.
BUY THIS!!! (Especially if you own a particularly fine sound system, the fidelity is phenominal) !!!!!

I just found this album and love it! Horner keeps writing new music, so I hope there will be a follow-up from these musicians. There are great versions of his themes here from different artists. This is definitely a great collection.

Everything is here, from the romantic symphonic love and hero themes to the quirky electronic to the Andean music from Vibes. I see this one performer - John Beal - who did Vibes and Commando. His name keeps popping up on albums I like. Doing a search shows he has his own album, plus has worked on "Watch The Skies" and "The Snow Files" Good stuff. Check it all out.

This is one CD I never tire of. It shows how far back Horner has been composing music for films. It has a wide variety, from a piano solo, to a digital mix for Cocoon, to very creative mixes of flutes and drums for the morning activity on a river. This CD is best!!! James Horner is awesome!!!!!!!!!