From the thundering drumbeats in the first seconds of this score, one can clearly sense an epic Goldsmith experience is about to ensue. Even though THE WIND and the LION is not one of Jerry Goldsmith's more recognized scores, it is definitely one of his finest. Clearly, this is one of the greatest Arabic influenced scores heard in motion pictures. It has been a huge influence on many contemporary composers and other scores. Perhaps the best example is John Williams's beloved score to the 1981 film RAIDERS of the LOST ARK. LION, written in 1975, delivers the Moroccanesque goods throughout, whereas the parts is RAIDERS that sound similar are the sequences in Cairo. Both are quite good, but Goldsmith's effort comes out shining.

In mentioning the Moroccan influence in this score, it goes without saying that a lot of the orchestra would be taken up by percussion. In this respect, this is quite true according to the insert notes by Douglas Fake. In addition to the use of the standard snare drum, bass drum and the cymbals, many parts were written for timbales, elephant drums, small bass drums, an elephant drum, a tenor drum and bongos. Quite an impressive list. As if this isn't enough, Goldsmith goes one further and accompanies them with a large, rich sounding orchestra. The percussion comes out in full force during the battle and chase sequences. The diversity of percussion is impressive, but the greatest parts of the score lie in its loyalty to romance.

Amid all of the supercharged action cues emerges, quite possibly, the most enchantingly beautiful love theme in cinema history. It flows flawlessly until it has run its complete cycle. Goldsmith doesn't let the shadowy subject matter of the film go unnoticed. A noticeably restrained darkness emerges during this theme. The track that gives the full performance of this cue is "I Remember." In addition to the love theme there is a faster, more prevalent and ethnic theme. Combine the two of them and the results are truly grand.

I could go as far as to say that THE WIND and the LION is Jerry Goldsmith's finest score, and I wouldn't be too far off. If it isn't his shining achievement out of his vast list of film credits, it sure ranks up near the top. One disadvantage of the release of this score is that it is a little difficult to come across. Checking your local store would be a futile decision; going online in your search would be the most productive route. The wait certainly is worth it. Listen to it over and over and I guarantee you'll never tire of it. This is what makes a masterpiece what it is.

Running Time: approx. 39 min.

1. Main Title
2. I Remember (Love theme from "The Wind and the Lion")
3. The Horsemen
4. True Feelings
5. The Raisuli
6. The True Symbol
7. Raisuli Attacks
8. Lord of the Riff
9. The Tent
10. The Palace
11. The Legend
12. Morning Camp
13. The Letter
14. Something of Value

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