With no knowledge of the film, a cursory observation that this pairs Badalamenti with director David Lynch is likely to divide potential listeners as easily as their films together historically have. A reputation for experimentation and an often dark tone proceeds them, which either appeals or repels in equal number. So shame on you if you're unprepared to accept a wolf in new clothing, since that chances you missing out on what's possibly the most consistently beautiful score of 1999. Alvin Straight is an elderly varmint who swallows years of pride to visit a stricken brother whom he's not spoken to for far too long. Circumstances dictate the most humorous of modes of transport to undertake the journey - a lawnmower. An exploration of shining morality and the nature of family ensues. All of which elicits the most tender of scores from Badalamenti, recalling some of the bittersweet of his own City of the Lost Children. But in its Country Americana style, much of this album resembles the infamous guitar strains of Stanley Myers' "Cavatina" from The Deer Hunter. After the synth strains of "Laurens, Iowa" reminds us just how powerful sustained melodies can be (think Twin Peaks), it is with "Rose's Theme" that the most memorable material begins. The intimate ensemble of a couple of guitars and strings draws you into the achingly slow world in which Alvin travels, and simultaneously keeps warm and alive its dazzling colours. The shots of the glowing cornfields coupled with "Alvin's Theme" are spectacular to say the least. It's easily the most listener-friendly collaboration from the pair, but more than that it's a good sign that movie scan still allow for and encourage such sweetness. Reviewer Paul Tonks	Reviewer Paul Tonks Reviews from previous months Reviews carry sales links but you can also purchase from:
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