So stated Boston Globe critic Richard Dyer in a 5/7/99 review of John
Williams' new Sony compact disc featuring excerpts from the new film
'Phantom Menace.' Characterizing as a "...stirring and far reaching score
(the music track) is one of the most ambitious that Williams has ever
crafted.  In it one can hear 20 years of addtional experience in composing,
recording and conducting his music and that of others that Williams brought
to this task..." Some of the thematic material is familiar (one could not
avoid the Star Wars main title) - but there is a lot of entirely new music,
and some of it transcends generic categories.  Dyer recounts many of the
standard dramatic artifacts that are a 'must' in supporting motion picture
action and scene setting.  Dyer seemed impressed by what he characterizes
as a "...most striking passage 'Duel Of The Fates' for orchestra and chorus
which returns in the end credits." A battle between good and evil turned
into a violently rhythmical pagan ritual; Stravinsky lurks in the
background."

Dyer speaks to the complaints of many listers that movie music is
frequently derivative in nature.  In this case the critic points to
character music of a new personality named Jar-Jar.  Clearly derived from
Elgar, the character evokes a new variation from Enigma.  Other reminiscent
themes seem borrowed from Korngold, Prokofiev and Rosza according to Dyer.
On balance the critic lauds the new effort.  "Once again, John has
exceeeded my espectations and produced a lavish, rich, moving and
sthrilling score," said Dyer.

No great effort should lack a few zingers, however.  Sony gets a rap
for its less than effective editorial and packaging.  A promised enclosed
poster is a very skimpy 19X14 inches and the text in sepia type on orange
background is difficult to read.  (Art directer misjudgements again, grrr.)
Dyer is dissapointed too, about the program length.  Most important, the
musical experience is memorable.  Richard Dyer wrapped up his review,
"...The Phantom Menace" is not bombast but richness of emotional
texture-this is a score that only John Williams could have written, and
that John Williams probably could'nt have written 20 years ago."

You may wish the read the full text of this review on the Boston
Globe Web site.

[log in to unmask] (Bernard Gregoire)