Richard HARVEY
Arabian Nights
Original Television Soundtrack
VARÈSE SARABANDE VSD 6141
[69:21]
Crotchet
Amazon
UK
Amazon
US
Regular visitors to this site will remember that Mark Hockley reviewed the
video of the programme that was screened on BBC TV earlier this year [Len,
link please].
The music did not come across on the video nearly as strongly as on this
album which is a rare treat. As must be expected there is much material that
evokes Arabia. Harvey is very successful in creating its authentic sound
in music of vivid colour. All instruments complement each other with a fantastic
sound of mystery, sadness and drama as well as evocations of exotic climes.
The opening ‘Sultan’s Sharian’s Dream’ and ‘Main
Titles’ is an evocative exciting yet dreamy mix of drums voices, cymbals.
‘Open Sesame!’ is thrilling and mysterious with great rhythmic
drive. ‘Kasim’s Fatal Mistake’ is music to run away from monsters
and Bacbac – Death of a Funny Man’ sounds like comic ballet music.
Overall this music appeals strongly and it is difficult to choose favourites.
Sound is stunning.
Reviewer
Zara
