This is my soul favorite Danny Elfman score. From the first crescendoed utterance of the melancholy strings, I knew I was in for an absolutely beautiful experience. The music of SOMMERSBY works on so many levels of enjoyment. First of all, there is the apprehensive love theme that is masterfully adapted and reprised throughout most of the tender moments in the film. Great thing is, it never becomes old or repetitive. True requirements for a score that will withstand the test of time.

Second, there is the jubilant theme that emerges whenever Sommersby is out in the fields helping the townsfolk. It is a joy to the ears every time I give it a listen. The third theme comes out in full force towards the end of the score. Elfman creates a delicate suspense and keeps building it until the emotional climax in track 15. This dramatically tragic portion of the music will most definitely stick with you. As Elfman has said himself, he loves to write sad music. SOMMERSBY doesn't venture away from this genre.

As I stated before, SOMMERSBY, in my opinion, is Danny Elfman's best work up to this date. Many would disagree with this and nominate EDWARD SCISSORHANDS for the prize. It is my next favorite of his, but SOMMERSBY is much more intricate and brilliant. One word of warning though, the music on this soundtrack sounds nothing like the rest of his previous or following works. In other words, don't go into this one expecting to hear music that resembles BEETLEJUICE or BATMAN. Because, if you do, you will be quite disappointed. I suggest that you experience this Elfman beauty with closed eyes and an open heart.

Rating: *****

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Running Time: approx. 51 min.

1. Main Titles
2. The Homecoming
3. Welcoming
4. First Love
5. At Work
6. Alone
7. Return Montage
8. Mortal Sin
9. Homer
10. Going to Nashville
11. Baby
12. Tea Cups
13. Townsend's Tale
14. Death
15. Finale
16. End Credits