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John Williams has really gone all out to make his score for Steven Spielberg's epic vision AMISTAD genuine and thrilling. This score follows in the recent line of Africanesque scores such as CONGO and The GHOST and the DARKNESS. Both of these scores are by Jerry Goldsmith. In both of the previously mentioned scores, Goldsmith attempted to, and succeeded in capturing the wild and adventurous elements of Africa. On the other hand, Williams has painted a much more subdued, tender, and emotional picture.
Some of the best moments of AMISTAD are its darker ones. The second track, the song that highlights the capture of Cinque, is very difficult to listen to. The song is all at once disturbing and yet quite interesting to experience. Another track that elicits similar emotions is the one titled "Middle Passage." It has an undercurrent of dark rage and an effective sense of drama. Towards the end of the song, the tension subsides and we are allowed to hear a brief burst of the main theme. This is a great track.
As entertaining as the darker portions of the score are, the truly amazing elements come out during the mournful moments of reflection. "Cinque's Theme" fits this description squarely. Although I can't really peg this song as being tragic, it is very beautiful to say the least. It is one of those themes that a person can't assign specific verbal feelings to. There are quite a few different, but rightfully complementing themes. The final theme I will mention accompanies the scenes where John Quincy Adams is on the screen. Very patriotic and flowing.
After listening to AMISTAD, it is easy to understand why it has garnered an Academy Award nomination. This is easily one of John Williams' most outstanding scores. It is thematically rich and lives on without incident even after being separated from its visual material. The disc is arranged in virtually the correct sequential order which always helps. If you enjoy a score where the darker side of John Williams is let free to roam, then AMISTAD is just the ticket. A superb effort.
