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The score begins with "Main Titles/The Caravan" which swiftly sets the epic pace and scope of the film. Sweeping strings usher in the central theme which belongs solely to Mowgli. A crescendoed intro builds as the camera methodically zooms in on a colorful map of India. As the first theme subsides, the second, more lofty theme is announced. Although it makes it's appearance here initially, it is used well during key areas of the the movie where it is appropriate. Many of the scenes where it is utilized are during Mowgli's trips to the crumbling ancient city. It is also during this first track where the love theme between Kitty and Mowgli begins. It is very deliberately beautiful and its complex structure happens to make it all the more breathtaking.
The first two minutes of the track "Shere Kahn Attacks" have you under their light-hearted spell until the orchestra unleashes some of the most drivingly intense action music on the disc. Poledouris is renowned for having the unquestioned talent for writing continuously ingenius and memorable action pieces for the screen. THE JUNGLE BOOK was an excellent showcase for both this and his ability to score the music accordingly to the ethnic nature of the score. One of the factors that carries this out in this score is the unrelenting percussion and climbing brass. Poledouris adapts them so seamlessly, it just has to be heard to be truly appreciated.
"Mowgli" is one of the more delightful tracks where the surprisingly versatile main theme is brought fully into the light. Truly beautiful toward the end. It would seem that Poledouris had a grand time writing music for the scenes encompassing the "Monkey City." The jovial second theme is let loose while the music still holds an oddly foreboding quality about it. Just maybe, the finest track on the album, in my opinion, has to be the elegant track entitled "Civilization." One can almost sense the process Mowgli is going through to become a civilized person. Its quieter, more dignified and reflective moments convey a sense of near despair, yet Poledouris never allows the elegant charm to leave the overall effectiveness of the track. Listen for the music towards the end of the song; it is almost worth the price of the disc alone.
After the invigorating action track "Spoils," Poledouris brings THE JUNGLE BOOK almost completely full circle with the "Finale." Verging on a near carbon-copy of the first track, this approach is a superb way to close the album. If it is possible, this track is even more epic in proportion than the main titles are. Basil Poledouris never ceases to amaze me with his ever-widening talent. A few parts of this score almost remind me of his brilliant score to the 1998 film LES MISÉRABLES. Judging by that score and THE JUNGLE BOOK, it is fairly evident that his talent shows no sign of slowing.
