The Most Perfect Music Ever Made ..., 04 May 2008
Even thought I havent received this yet, the music in the film was the most perfect music i've ever heard! Its weird, it used to be my favourite film when i was a little girl i was obsessed! And 15 years later i watch it again and all of those first time feelings come back. One of the most amazing-est love stories ever written by Tim Burton. The music makes the film perfect. :] Ill always love this film.

Breathtaking, stunningly beautiful music, 05 Jan 2008
Quite simply one of the most beautiful scores ever written for a movie and one that Elfman has never subsequently matched. Every track breathes life into the characters and the movie in turn takes its strength from its music. The only sub-quality track is the one by Tom Jones and although it doesn't spoil the album, it isn't of the same quality as the orchestral work by Danny Elfman.
This is an essntial for a fan of movie music. Buy it and enjoy it over and over again.

The most beautiful OST ever, 26 Sep 2007
It really is, I mean it. Especially The Great Finale, probably my favourite 3 minutes of music of any genre (considering I own more than 1700 CDs of classical music, no piracy here, that's saying something). It always moves me, and more than once tears fell while I was listening to it. The movie is a masterpiece, but without this music it would be less. That magic moment when Winona Ryder dances under the ice wouldn't be the same without Elfman's melody, or The Inventor's death (The strings here simply weep, it's amazing). There are perhaps richer, or more epic OST (The Lord of the Rings, the Star Wars cycle...). None has more beautiful music inside.

magical, 28 Feb 2007
I first saw this film because I had to write an essay on it, and absolutely fell in love with it! So I bought the CD and love that just as much. Danny Elfman's work is brilliant-the music is so magical and haunting. Definitely worth the money!

Beautiful music ...., 30 Jan 2006
Enchanting, magical, mesmerising, haunting, fantastical tracks! Especially track 7 - Ice Dance, which moved me so much I chose it as the track to walk down the aisle to when I got married! Every time I hear it, I well up. A friend describes it as "the type of music you would hear in heaven". It invokes memories of the charming movie its taken from and I completely agree with a previous reviewer - you will never look at snow in the same way again.

The Most Perfect Music Ever Made ..., 04 May 2008
Even thought I havent received this yet, the music in the film was the most perfect music i've ever heard! Its weird, it used to be my favourite film when i was a little girl i was obsessed! And 15 years later i watch it again and all of those first time feelings come back. One of the most amazing-est love stories ever written by Tim Burton. The music makes the film perfect. :] Ill always love this film.

Breathtaking, stunningly beautiful music, 05 Jan 2008
Quite simply one of the most beautiful scores ever written for a movie and one that Elfman has never subsequently matched. Every track breathes life into the characters and the movie in turn takes its strength from its music. The only sub-quality track is the one by Tom Jones and although it doesn't spoil the album, it isn't of the same quality as the orchestral work by Danny Elfman.
This is an essntial for a fan of movie music. Buy it and enjoy it over and over again.

The most beautiful OST ever, 26 Sep 2007
It really is, I mean it. Especially The Great Finale, probably my favourite 3 minutes of music of any genre (considering I own more than 1700 CDs of classical music, no piracy here, that's saying something). It always moves me, and more than once tears fell while I was listening to it. The movie is a masterpiece, but without this music it would be less. That magic moment when Winona Ryder dances under the ice wouldn't be the same without Elfman's melody, or The Inventor's death (The strings here simply weep, it's amazing). There are perhaps richer, or more epic OST (The Lord of the Rings, the Star Wars cycle...). None has more beautiful music inside.

magical, 28 Feb 2007
I first saw this film because I had to write an essay on it, and absolutely fell in love with it! So I bought the CD and love that just as much. Danny Elfman's work is brilliant-the music is so magical and haunting. Definitely worth the money!

Beautiful music ...., 30 Jan 2006
Enchanting, magical, mesmerising, haunting, fantastical tracks! Especially track 7 - Ice Dance, which moved me so much I chose it as the track to walk down the aisle to when I got married! Every time I hear it, I well up. A friend describes it as "the type of music you would hear in heaven". It invokes memories of the charming movie its taken from and I completely agree with a previous reviewer - you will never look at snow in the same way again.

Brilliant score, 01 Jan 2008
This is a score for all fans of the comic book movie genre. Escpially those who like the darker-toned/more adult themed ones just like the Blade trilogy and of course Tim Burton's Batman and Batman Returns (which has another great score).

The music is brooding and really makes you feel like you want to go around your town/city dressed up (not that I would) in a bat costume going around sorting out crimes in a super car (one of the most memorable tracks of the CD is the charge of the Batmobile) and the Joker's music is great too because it's comical and camp but in a dark and twisted way if you know what I mean and, like Batman's themes, describes the character well. The final 6 tracks are outstanding and really make you root for the hero.

Get it. It's memorable. It's literally as good as the Superman score especially the opening track. Sadly though Prince's 'Trust' 'Partyman' and 'Scandalous' songs are not on this, they're on Batman the album.

Timeless, 02 Nov 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 31 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman’s gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like ‘Face Off’ and ‘Waltz to the Death’ are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of ‘Beautiful Dreamer’ borders on farce for Joker’s infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince’s ‘Scandalous’ but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious ‘Childhood Remembered’ and gothic ‘Up the Cathedral’ really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing ‘Descent into Mystery’ is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it’s big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 27 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Never bettered, 30 Dec 2003
This is the soundtrack that defined a genre and a composer (it's so good that Elfman copied bits of it when writing his Spider-Man score).
Since there are so many Batman themes, I'll just say that "the one on the original cartoon? The one from the original movies with Burton and Keaton? and Jack Nicholson? This is the one".
Never has music so suited a character, the sweeping, Wagner-esque Batman theme is so fitting for the Dark Knight's brooding persona that is has become the natural association whenever people think of Batman (aside from a fat Adam West).
But not content with one main theme for a character, Elfman also has a few tracks devoted to the Joker's zany and insane character including an eeriely cheerful waltz towards the finale.
This is powerful music (3 minutes into track 16, tell me you can't feel the power of revenge) and it builds to a climax from haunting around the first half to full blown action in the second yet never losing it's pacing or going too over the top.
This is a worthy addition to your CD collection and if you want to make it even better, listen to it after the turgid "Batman and Robin" soundtrack

The Most Perfect Music Ever Made ..., 04 May 2008
Even thought I havent received this yet, the music in the film was the most perfect music i've ever heard! Its weird, it used to be my favourite film when i was a little girl i was obsessed! And 15 years later i watch it again and all of those first time feelings come back. One of the most amazing-est love stories ever written by Tim Burton. The music makes the film perfect. :] Ill always love this film.

Breathtaking, stunningly beautiful music, 05 Jan 2008
Quite simply one of the most beautiful scores ever written for a movie and one that Elfman has never subsequently matched. Every track breathes life into the characters and the movie in turn takes its strength from its music. The only sub-quality track is the one by Tom Jones and although it doesn't spoil the album, it isn't of the same quality as the orchestral work by Danny Elfman.
This is an essntial for a fan of movie music. Buy it and enjoy it over and over again.

The most beautiful OST ever, 26 Sep 2007
It really is, I mean it. Especially The Great Finale, probably my favourite 3 minutes of music of any genre (considering I own more than 1700 CDs of classical music, no piracy here, that's saying something). It always moves me, and more than once tears fell while I was listening to it. The movie is a masterpiece, but without this music it would be less. That magic moment when Winona Ryder dances under the ice wouldn't be the same without Elfman's melody, or The Inventor's death (The strings here simply weep, it's amazing). There are perhaps richer, or more epic OST (The Lord of the Rings, the Star Wars cycle...). None has more beautiful music inside.

magical, 28 Feb 2007
I first saw this film because I had to write an essay on it, and absolutely fell in love with it! So I bought the CD and love that just as much. Danny Elfman's work is brilliant-the music is so magical and haunting. Definitely worth the money!

Beautiful music ...., 30 Jan 2006
Enchanting, magical, mesmerising, haunting, fantastical tracks! Especially track 7 - Ice Dance, which moved me so much I chose it as the track to walk down the aisle to when I got married! Every time I hear it, I well up. A friend describes it as "the type of music you would hear in heaven". It invokes memories of the charming movie its taken from and I completely agree with a previous reviewer - you will never look at snow in the same way again.

Brilliant score, 01 Jan 2008
This is a score for all fans of the comic book movie genre. Escpially those who like the darker-toned/more adult themed ones just like the Blade trilogy and of course Tim Burton's Batman and Batman Returns (which has another great score).

The music is brooding and really makes you feel like you want to go around your town/city dressed up (not that I would) in a bat costume going around sorting out crimes in a super car (one of the most memorable tracks of the CD is the charge of the Batmobile) and the Joker's music is great too because it's comical and camp but in a dark and twisted way if you know what I mean and, like Batman's themes, describes the character well. The final 6 tracks are outstanding and really make you root for the hero.

Get it. It's memorable. It's literally as good as the Superman score especially the opening track. Sadly though Prince's 'Trust' 'Partyman' and 'Scandalous' songs are not on this, they're on Batman the album.

Timeless, 02 Nov 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 31 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman’s gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like ‘Face Off’ and ‘Waltz to the Death’ are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of ‘Beautiful Dreamer’ borders on farce for Joker’s infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince’s ‘Scandalous’ but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious ‘Childhood Remembered’ and gothic ‘Up the Cathedral’ really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing ‘Descent into Mystery’ is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it’s big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 27 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Never bettered, 30 Dec 2003
This is the soundtrack that defined a genre and a composer (it's so good that Elfman copied bits of it when writing his Spider-Man score).
Since there are so many Batman themes, I'll just say that "the one on the original cartoon? The one from the original movies with Burton and Keaton? and Jack Nicholson? This is the one".
Never has music so suited a character, the sweeping, Wagner-esque Batman theme is so fitting for the Dark Knight's brooding persona that is has become the natural association whenever people think of Batman (aside from a fat Adam West).
But not content with one main theme for a character, Elfman also has a few tracks devoted to the Joker's zany and insane character including an eeriely cheerful waltz towards the finale.
This is powerful music (3 minutes into track 16, tell me you can't feel the power of revenge) and it builds to a climax from haunting around the first half to full blown action in the second yet never losing it's pacing or going too over the top.
This is a worthy addition to your CD collection and if you want to make it even better, listen to it after the turgid "Batman and Robin" soundtrack

classic flicks, 17 Nov 2003
I recently listened to the music on the box set being played by the London Royal philharmonic orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall in London and immediately loved the music and bought the c.d box set. All the themes from the films are played brilliantly with a real joyous sound to them. The themes that I had seen the films to I think I enjoyed the most as I already new them yet hearing them being played by such a good orchestra really makes the c.d worth listening to. There is not a single bad track on the c.d and one of my particular favourites was 'the great escape' which really made me smile. This album is a must buy for anyone who enjoys film theme tunes or anyone who likes listening to an orchestra as talented as this. 5 stars!

Between Batmans, Danny Elfman scored the marvellous Edward Scissorhands, and its sugar-plum effect on all his subsequent scores has been clear. "Birth Of A Penguin" opens this disc with a wonderfully cheesy organ blare, and then becomes a tinkling choral Christmas for the Cobblepots. The "ooh" of the choir continues to pop up at unexpected junctures, even deconstructing the formally martial Batman theme for the titles. The Penguin's theme is hardly recognisable in this prologue, but makes a grand entrance at "The Cemetery". The three-pointed portrait of schizophrenia is then completed by what's in essence a rather predictable Catwoman theme that nevertheless dazzles in the way its meowing strings bend and sexily glide. As before, poor Bruce Wayne/Bats hardly gets a look-in for screen time. But whereas the first score regurgitated one theme in a million brilliant variations, this sequel pares right back in favour of the new. "Batman vs. The Circus" is more about the composer's love for carnival standards than action scoring. The "End Credits" suite encapsulates everything in what could easily have come first as an overture. And for once the song included ("Face To Face" by Elfman and Siouxsie & the Banshees) is an integral part of movie and score. --Paul Tonks

The Most Perfect Music Ever Made ..., 04 May 2008
Even thought I havent received this yet, the music in the film was the most perfect music i've ever heard! Its weird, it used to be my favourite film when i was a little girl i was obsessed! And 15 years later i watch it again and all of those first time feelings come back. One of the most amazing-est love stories ever written by Tim Burton. The music makes the film perfect. :] Ill always love this film.

Breathtaking, stunningly beautiful music, 05 Jan 2008
Quite simply one of the most beautiful scores ever written for a movie and one that Elfman has never subsequently matched. Every track breathes life into the characters and the movie in turn takes its strength from its music. The only sub-quality track is the one by Tom Jones and although it doesn't spoil the album, it isn't of the same quality as the orchestral work by Danny Elfman.
This is an essntial for a fan of movie music. Buy it and enjoy it over and over again.

The most beautiful OST ever, 26 Sep 2007
It really is, I mean it. Especially The Great Finale, probably my favourite 3 minutes of music of any genre (considering I own more than 1700 CDs of classical music, no piracy here, that's saying something). It always moves me, and more than once tears fell while I was listening to it. The movie is a masterpiece, but without this music it would be less. That magic moment when Winona Ryder dances under the ice wouldn't be the same without Elfman's melody, or The Inventor's death (The strings here simply weep, it's amazing). There are perhaps richer, or more epic OST (The Lord of the Rings, the Star Wars cycle...). None has more beautiful music inside.

magical, 28 Feb 2007
I first saw this film because I had to write an essay on it, and absolutely fell in love with it! So I bought the CD and love that just as much. Danny Elfman's work is brilliant-the music is so magical and haunting. Definitely worth the money!

Beautiful music ...., 30 Jan 2006
Enchanting, magical, mesmerising, haunting, fantastical tracks! Especially track 7 - Ice Dance, which moved me so much I chose it as the track to walk down the aisle to when I got married! Every time I hear it, I well up. A friend describes it as "the type of music you would hear in heaven". It invokes memories of the charming movie its taken from and I completely agree with a previous reviewer - you will never look at snow in the same way again.

Brilliant score, 01 Jan 2008
This is a score for all fans of the comic book movie genre. Escpially those who like the darker-toned/more adult themed ones just like the Blade trilogy and of course Tim Burton's Batman and Batman Returns (which has another great score).

The music is brooding and really makes you feel like you want to go around your town/city dressed up (not that I would) in a bat costume going around sorting out crimes in a super car (one of the most memorable tracks of the CD is the charge of the Batmobile) and the Joker's music is great too because it's comical and camp but in a dark and twisted way if you know what I mean and, like Batman's themes, describes the character well. The final 6 tracks are outstanding and really make you root for the hero.

Get it. It's memorable. It's literally as good as the Superman score especially the opening track. Sadly though Prince's 'Trust' 'Partyman' and 'Scandalous' songs are not on this, they're on Batman the album.

Timeless, 02 Nov 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 31 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman’s gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like ‘Face Off’ and ‘Waltz to the Death’ are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of ‘Beautiful Dreamer’ borders on farce for Joker’s infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince’s ‘Scandalous’ but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious ‘Childhood Remembered’ and gothic ‘Up the Cathedral’ really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing ‘Descent into Mystery’ is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it’s big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 27 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Never bettered, 30 Dec 2003
This is the soundtrack that defined a genre and a composer (it's so good that Elfman copied bits of it when writing his Spider-Man score).
Since there are so many Batman themes, I'll just say that "the one on the original cartoon? The one from the original movies with Burton and Keaton? and Jack Nicholson? This is the one".
Never has music so suited a character, the sweeping, Wagner-esque Batman theme is so fitting for the Dark Knight's brooding persona that is has become the natural association whenever people think of Batman (aside from a fat Adam West).
But not content with one main theme for a character, Elfman also has a few tracks devoted to the Joker's zany and insane character including an eeriely cheerful waltz towards the finale.
This is powerful music (3 minutes into track 16, tell me you can't feel the power of revenge) and it builds to a climax from haunting around the first half to full blown action in the second yet never losing it's pacing or going too over the top.
This is a worthy addition to your CD collection and if you want to make it even better, listen to it after the turgid "Batman and Robin" soundtrack

classic flicks, 17 Nov 2003
I recently listened to the music on the box set being played by the London Royal philharmonic orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall in London and immediately loved the music and bought the c.d box set. All the themes from the films are played brilliantly with a real joyous sound to them. The themes that I had seen the films to I think I enjoyed the most as I already new them yet hearing them being played by such a good orchestra really makes the c.d worth listening to. There is not a single bad track on the c.d and one of my particular favourites was 'the great escape' which really made me smile. This album is a must buy for anyone who enjoys film theme tunes or anyone who likes listening to an orchestra as talented as this. 5 stars!

A career-best from Elfman, 02 Nov 2005
After such a fantastic scoring effort on Batman, I thought Elfman's hopes of topping it were fairly slim. He not only topped it but in my opinion produced a classic that is my favourite score of Elfman's career. Sandwiched between the two Batman movies, the effect of Elfman & Burton's Edward Scissorhands is obvious (Birth of a Penguin) and the festive setting of Returns gives the perfect opportunity for the 'La-la' choir that the composer handles so well. The highlight of this score is the addictive four-note Penguin theme that perfectly captures the twisted spirit of the villain in all of its variations. In it's last statement (The Final Confrontation) the funeral arrangement of his theme stayed with me long after the movie was over. For Catwoman we have the screeching sounds of 'mioaw' strings that are playful, sexy, angry and doomed. Batman's theme takes more of a back seat on this outing but the sheer richness of the rest of the score (Elfman had a little more character substance to work with) sets it above the original.

The quality of the disc is superb but for some reason the orchestra just doesn't sound as 'big' as the original, especially the snare drums (not sure if this is due to the orchestra size or the mixing). Bonus points for presentation of the score album: tracks like 'Cat Suite', 'Batman vs the Circus', 'Rise and Fall from Grace' and 'End Credits' are spot-on arrangements. And finally, it wraps with 'Face to Face' by Siouxsie, an excellent song based on the Penguin's theme.

I can't recommend it enough. If you have not already discovered Elfman's Batman scores then I envy you.

A career-best from Elfman, 27 Oct 2005
After such a fantastic scoring effort on Batman, I thought Elfman's hopes of topping it were fairly slim. He not only topped it but in my opinion produced a classic that is my favourite score of Elfman's career. Sandwiched between the two Batman movies, the effect of Elfman & Burton's Edward Scissorhands is obvious (Birth of a Penguin) and the festive setting of Returns gives the perfect opportunity for the 'La-la' choir that the composer handles so well. The highlight of this score is the addictive four-note Penguin theme that perfectly captures the twisted spirit of the villain in all of its variations. In it's last statement (The Final Confrontation) the funeral arrangement of his theme stayed with me long after the movie was over. For Catwoman we have the screeching sounds of 'mioaw' strings that are playful, angry and doomed. Batman's theme takes more of a back seat on this outing but the sheer richness of the rest of the score (Elfman had a little more character substance to work with) sets it above the original.

The quality of the disc is superb but for some reason the orchestra just doesn't sound as 'big' as the original (not sure if this is due to the orchestra size or the mixing). Bonus points for presentation of the score album: tracks like 'Cat Suite', 'Batman vs the Circus', 'Rise and Fall from Grace' and 'End Credits' are spot-on arrangements. And finally, it wraps with 'Face to Face' by Siouxsie, an excellent song based on the Penguin's theme.

I can't recommend it enough. If you have not already discovered Elfman's Batman scores then I envy you.

Exquisite!, 22 Jun 2005
Simply sublime! The wierdness of the classic film is perfectly captured by Elfman. The soprano choirs that have become his trademark can be found dotted all over the shop with the penguin's melody (which is reminiscent of Poor Jack from 'The Nightmare Before Christmas'). The Birth of a Penguin tracks open the film on a high note, with the same accompaniment rhythm that was used in the Descent Into Mystery track from the first film. And of course there are loads of the tinkly bells that he uses so well in 'Edward Scissorhands.' The Batman vs. The Circus tracks are also groovy, with the carnival-esque themes. And last but not least we have the excellent Catwoman's theme. This is quite possibly his greatest achievement; miss it at your peril!

ELFMAN RETURNS TO STEP UP TO BAT!, 30 May 2002
As far as the first film went Mr Elfman's style was a little too overelaborate at times (with the exception of the amazing End Title). This time is much more satisfactory, from the lush ride down the sewer with the Penguin to the deliriously exhilirating backflips of the Catwoman (accompanied by the usual abrupt finish as the building in the background goes up in flames in accordance with her "miaow!". This score also sets a new standard for treacly sentiment but with such fantastic stuff also contained here this minor quibble can just about be overlooked. The song contained on the soundtrack "Face to Face" by Siouxie and the Banshees/Danny Elfman is a smash and it's always nice to conclude with the March.
Overall, a much pleasant affair with plenty to recommend it but also the odd moment or two that could have been slightly better.

Possibly Elfman's finest hour (and a bit), 09 Dec 2000
Tim Burton's long-time collaborator Danny Elfman had a field day with this soundtrack - it's one of his darkest and yet most enchanting scores, the film's images of the freakish Penguin, tortured Catwoman and eerie Gotham City all pandering perfectly to his gothic style. The setting of the film - Gotham's Christmas turned into a nightmare (yes, explored very soon after in the similarly Burton-produced and Elfman-scored 'Nightmare Before Christmas') serves to heighten even further the music's perverse blend of fairy-tale bells and terrifying organs, which here dominate far more than the familiar Batman theme and booming brass of the original film. This is a BAD GUYS' soundtrack(!), and almost every track is a haunting, ethereal joy which stands on its own as well as fitting into the overall product. For Elfman or Burton fans this is a must-have; for anybody else, this'll be unlike anything else in your CD collection...

The Most Perfect Music Ever Made ..., 04 May 2008
Even thought I havent received this yet, the music in the film was the most perfect music i've ever heard! Its weird, it used to be my favourite film when i was a little girl i was obsessed! And 15 years later i watch it again and all of those first time feelings come back. One of the most amazing-est love stories ever written by Tim Burton. The music makes the film perfect. :] Ill always love this film.

Breathtaking, stunningly beautiful music, 05 Jan 2008
Quite simply one of the most beautiful scores ever written for a movie and one that Elfman has never subsequently matched. Every track breathes life into the characters and the movie in turn takes its strength from its music. The only sub-quality track is the one by Tom Jones and although it doesn't spoil the album, it isn't of the same quality as the orchestral work by Danny Elfman.
This is an essntial for a fan of movie music. Buy it and enjoy it over and over again.

The most beautiful OST ever, 26 Sep 2007
It really is, I mean it. Especially The Great Finale, probably my favourite 3 minutes of music of any genre (considering I own more than 1700 CDs of classical music, no piracy here, that's saying something). It always moves me, and more than once tears fell while I was listening to it. The movie is a masterpiece, but without this music it would be less. That magic moment when Winona Ryder dances under the ice wouldn't be the same without Elfman's melody, or The Inventor's death (The strings here simply weep, it's amazing). There are perhaps richer, or more epic OST (The Lord of the Rings, the Star Wars cycle...). None has more beautiful music inside.

magical, 28 Feb 2007
I first saw this film because I had to write an essay on it, and absolutely fell in love with it! So I bought the CD and love that just as much. Danny Elfman's work is brilliant-the music is so magical and haunting. Definitely worth the money!

Beautiful music ...., 30 Jan 2006
Enchanting, magical, mesmerising, haunting, fantastical tracks! Especially track 7 - Ice Dance, which moved me so much I chose it as the track to walk down the aisle to when I got married! Every time I hear it, I well up. A friend describes it as "the type of music you would hear in heaven". It invokes memories of the charming movie its taken from and I completely agree with a previous reviewer - you will never look at snow in the same way again.

Brilliant score, 01 Jan 2008
This is a score for all fans of the comic book movie genre. Escpially those who like the darker-toned/more adult themed ones just like the Blade trilogy and of course Tim Burton's Batman and Batman Returns (which has another great score).

The music is brooding and really makes you feel like you want to go around your town/city dressed up (not that I would) in a bat costume going around sorting out crimes in a super car (one of the most memorable tracks of the CD is the charge of the Batmobile) and the Joker's music is great too because it's comical and camp but in a dark and twisted way if you know what I mean and, like Batman's themes, describes the character well. The final 6 tracks are outstanding and really make you root for the hero.

Get it. It's memorable. It's literally as good as the Superman score especially the opening track. Sadly though Prince's 'Trust' 'Partyman' and 'Scandalous' songs are not on this, they're on Batman the album.

Timeless, 02 Nov 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 31 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman’s gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like ‘Face Off’ and ‘Waltz to the Death’ are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of ‘Beautiful Dreamer’ borders on farce for Joker’s infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince’s ‘Scandalous’ but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious ‘Childhood Remembered’ and gothic ‘Up the Cathedral’ really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing ‘Descent into Mystery’ is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it’s big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 27 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Never bettered, 30 Dec 2003
This is the soundtrack that defined a genre and a composer (it's so good that Elfman copied bits of it when writing his Spider-Man score).
Since there are so many Batman themes, I'll just say that "the one on the original cartoon? The one from the original movies with Burton and Keaton? and Jack Nicholson? This is the one".
Never has music so suited a character, the sweeping, Wagner-esque Batman theme is so fitting for the Dark Knight's brooding persona that is has become the natural association whenever people think of Batman (aside from a fat Adam West).
But not content with one main theme for a character, Elfman also has a few tracks devoted to the Joker's zany and insane character including an eeriely cheerful waltz towards the finale.
This is powerful music (3 minutes into track 16, tell me you can't feel the power of revenge) and it builds to a climax from haunting around the first half to full blown action in the second yet never losing it's pacing or going too over the top.
This is a worthy addition to your CD collection and if you want to make it even better, listen to it after the turgid "Batman and Robin" soundtrack

classic flicks, 17 Nov 2003
I recently listened to the music on the box set being played by the London Royal philharmonic orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall in London and immediately loved the music and bought the c.d box set. All the themes from the films are played brilliantly with a real joyous sound to them. The themes that I had seen the films to I think I enjoyed the most as I already new them yet hearing them being played by such a good orchestra really makes the c.d worth listening to. There is not a single bad track on the c.d and one of my particular favourites was 'the great escape' which really made me smile. This album is a must buy for anyone who enjoys film theme tunes or anyone who likes listening to an orchestra as talented as this. 5 stars!

A career-best from Elfman, 02 Nov 2005
After such a fantastic scoring effort on Batman, I thought Elfman's hopes of topping it were fairly slim. He not only topped it but in my opinion produced a classic that is my favourite score of Elfman's career. Sandwiched between the two Batman movies, the effect of Elfman & Burton's Edward Scissorhands is obvious (Birth of a Penguin) and the festive setting of Returns gives the perfect opportunity for the 'La-la' choir that the composer handles so well. The highlight of this score is the addictive four-note Penguin theme that perfectly captures the twisted spirit of the villain in all of its variations. In it's last statement (The Final Confrontation) the funeral arrangement of his theme stayed with me long after the movie was over. For Catwoman we have the screeching sounds of 'mioaw' strings that are playful, sexy, angry and doomed. Batman's theme takes more of a back seat on this outing but the sheer richness of the rest of the score (Elfman had a little more character substance to work with) sets it above the original.

The quality of the disc is superb but for some reason the orchestra just doesn't sound as 'big' as the original, especially the snare drums (not sure if this is due to the orchestra size or the mixing). Bonus points for presentation of the score album: tracks like 'Cat Suite', 'Batman vs the Circus', 'Rise and Fall from Grace' and 'End Credits' are spot-on arrangements. And finally, it wraps with 'Face to Face' by Siouxsie, an excellent song based on the Penguin's theme.

I can't recommend it enough. If you have not already discovered Elfman's Batman scores then I envy you.

A career-best from Elfman, 27 Oct 2005
After such a fantastic scoring effort on Batman, I thought Elfman's hopes of topping it were fairly slim. He not only topped it but in my opinion produced a classic that is my favourite score of Elfman's career. Sandwiched between the two Batman movies, the effect of Elfman & Burton's Edward Scissorhands is obvious (Birth of a Penguin) and the festive setting of Returns gives the perfect opportunity for the 'La-la' choir that the composer handles so well. The highlight of this score is the addictive four-note Penguin theme that perfectly captures the twisted spirit of the villain in all of its variations. In it's last statement (The Final Confrontation) the funeral arrangement of his theme stayed with me long after the movie was over. For Catwoman we have the screeching sounds of 'mioaw' strings that are playful, angry and doomed. Batman's theme takes more of a back seat on this outing but the sheer richness of the rest of the score (Elfman had a little more character substance to work with) sets it above the original.

The quality of the disc is superb but for some reason the orchestra just doesn't sound as 'big' as the original (not sure if this is due to the orchestra size or the mixing). Bonus points for presentation of the score album: tracks like 'Cat Suite', 'Batman vs the Circus', 'Rise and Fall from Grace' and 'End Credits' are spot-on arrangements. And finally, it wraps with 'Face to Face' by Siouxsie, an excellent song based on the Penguin's theme.

I can't recommend it enough. If you have not already discovered Elfman's Batman scores then I envy you.

Exquisite!, 22 Jun 2005
Simply sublime! The wierdness of the classic film is perfectly captured by Elfman. The soprano choirs that have become his trademark can be found dotted all over the shop with the penguin's melody (which is reminiscent of Poor Jack from 'The Nightmare Before Christmas'). The Birth of a Penguin tracks open the film on a high note, with the same accompaniment rhythm that was used in the Descent Into Mystery track from the first film. And of course there are loads of the tinkly bells that he uses so well in 'Edward Scissorhands.' The Batman vs. The Circus tracks are also groovy, with the carnival-esque themes. And last but not least we have the excellent Catwoman's theme. This is quite possibly his greatest achievement; miss it at your peril!

ELFMAN RETURNS TO STEP UP TO BAT!, 30 May 2002
As far as the first film went Mr Elfman's style was a little too overelaborate at times (with the exception of the amazing End Title). This time is much more satisfactory, from the lush ride down the sewer with the Penguin to the deliriously exhilirating backflips of the Catwoman (accompanied by the usual abrupt finish as the building in the background goes up in flames in accordance with her "miaow!". This score also sets a new standard for treacly sentiment but with such fantastic stuff also contained here this minor quibble can just about be overlooked. The song contained on the soundtrack "Face to Face" by Siouxie and the Banshees/Danny Elfman is a smash and it's always nice to conclude with the March.
Overall, a much pleasant affair with plenty to recommend it but also the odd moment or two that could have been slightly better.

Possibly Elfman's finest hour (and a bit), 09 Dec 2000
Tim Burton's long-time collaborator Danny Elfman had a field day with this soundtrack - it's one of his darkest and yet most enchanting scores, the film's images of the freakish Penguin, tortured Catwoman and eerie Gotham City all pandering perfectly to his gothic style. The setting of the film - Gotham's Christmas turned into a nightmare (yes, explored very soon after in the similarly Burton-produced and Elfman-scored 'Nightmare Before Christmas') serves to heighten even further the music's perverse blend of fairy-tale bells and terrifying organs, which here dominate far more than the familiar Batman theme and booming brass of the original film. This is a BAD GUYS' soundtrack(!), and almost every track is a haunting, ethereal joy which stands on its own as well as fitting into the overall product. For Elfman or Burton fans this is a must-have; for anybody else, this'll be unlike anything else in your CD collection...

WOW, 18 Feb 2002
This is a master pice, im not a huge fan of this stlye or Danny elfman...but being a huge fan of the film i had to get this..and i could not believe how much i injoyed it, it starts off so well with great sounds..and finishs on a high..a few things to put it down.. 1 is that i found the middle to drag on a little and got boring..but that maybe cause of my taste in music but it helps if remember each track from the scean it came from, the other is the last 2 tracks shood be the other way round,, "end creadits" would have made a better way to close the cd, Harry belafontes "day-0" and "jump in line" are just great and really works well with this Score, Great dark, fun pice of music.

The Most Perfect Music Ever Made ..., 04 May 2008
Even thought I havent received this yet, the music in the film was the most perfect music i've ever heard! Its weird, it used to be my favourite film when i was a little girl i was obsessed! And 15 years later i watch it again and all of those first time feelings come back. One of the most amazing-est love stories ever written by Tim Burton. The music makes the film perfect. :] Ill always love this film.

Breathtaking, stunningly beautiful music, 05 Jan 2008
Quite simply one of the most beautiful scores ever written for a movie and one that Elfman has never subsequently matched. Every track breathes life into the characters and the movie in turn takes its strength from its music. The only sub-quality track is the one by Tom Jones and although it doesn't spoil the album, it isn't of the same quality as the orchestral work by Danny Elfman.
This is an essntial for a fan of movie music. Buy it and enjoy it over and over again.

The most beautiful OST ever, 26 Sep 2007
It really is, I mean it. Especially The Great Finale, probably my favourite 3 minutes of music of any genre (considering I own more than 1700 CDs of classical music, no piracy here, that's saying something). It always moves me, and more than once tears fell while I was listening to it. The movie is a masterpiece, but without this music it would be less. That magic moment when Winona Ryder dances under the ice wouldn't be the same without Elfman's melody, or The Inventor's death (The strings here simply weep, it's amazing). There are perhaps richer, or more epic OST (The Lord of the Rings, the Star Wars cycle...). None has more beautiful music inside.

magical, 28 Feb 2007
I first saw this film because I had to write an essay on it, and absolutely fell in love with it! So I bought the CD and love that just as much. Danny Elfman's work is brilliant-the music is so magical and haunting. Definitely worth the money!

Beautiful music ...., 30 Jan 2006
Enchanting, magical, mesmerising, haunting, fantastical tracks! Especially track 7 - Ice Dance, which moved me so much I chose it as the track to walk down the aisle to when I got married! Every time I hear it, I well up. A friend describes it as "the type of music you would hear in heaven". It invokes memories of the charming movie its taken from and I completely agree with a previous reviewer - you will never look at snow in the same way again.

Brilliant score, 01 Jan 2008
This is a score for all fans of the comic book movie genre. Escpially those who like the darker-toned/more adult themed ones just like the Blade trilogy and of course Tim Burton's Batman and Batman Returns (which has another great score).

The music is brooding and really makes you feel like you want to go around your town/city dressed up (not that I would) in a bat costume going around sorting out crimes in a super car (one of the most memorable tracks of the CD is the charge of the Batmobile) and the Joker's music is great too because it's comical and camp but in a dark and twisted way if you know what I mean and, like Batman's themes, describes the character well. The final 6 tracks are outstanding and really make you root for the hero.

Get it. It's memorable. It's literally as good as the Superman score especially the opening track. Sadly though Prince's 'Trust' 'Partyman' and 'Scandalous' songs are not on this, they're on Batman the album.

Timeless, 02 Nov 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 31 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman’s gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like ‘Face Off’ and ‘Waltz to the Death’ are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of ‘Beautiful Dreamer’ borders on farce for Joker’s infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince’s ‘Scandalous’ but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious ‘Childhood Remembered’ and gothic ‘Up the Cathedral’ really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing ‘Descent into Mystery’ is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it’s big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 27 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Never bettered, 30 Dec 2003
This is the soundtrack that defined a genre and a composer (it's so good that Elfman copied bits of it when writing his Spider-Man score).
Since there are so many Batman themes, I'll just say that "the one on the original cartoon? The one from the original movies with Burton and Keaton? and Jack Nicholson? This is the one".
Never has music so suited a character, the sweeping, Wagner-esque Batman theme is so fitting for the Dark Knight's brooding persona that is has become the natural association whenever people think of Batman (aside from a fat Adam West).
But not content with one main theme for a character, Elfman also has a few tracks devoted to the Joker's zany and insane character including an eeriely cheerful waltz towards the finale.
This is powerful music (3 minutes into track 16, tell me you can't feel the power of revenge) and it builds to a climax from haunting around the first half to full blown action in the second yet never losing it's pacing or going too over the top.
This is a worthy addition to your CD collection and if you want to make it even better, listen to it after the turgid "Batman and Robin" soundtrack

classic flicks, 17 Nov 2003
I recently listened to the music on the box set being played by the London Royal philharmonic orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall in London and immediately loved the music and bought the c.d box set. All the themes from the films are played brilliantly with a real joyous sound to them. The themes that I had seen the films to I think I enjoyed the most as I already new them yet hearing them being played by such a good orchestra really makes the c.d worth listening to. There is not a single bad track on the c.d and one of my particular favourites was 'the great escape' which really made me smile. This album is a must buy for anyone who enjoys film theme tunes or anyone who likes listening to an orchestra as talented as this. 5 stars!

A career-best from Elfman, 02 Nov 2005
After such a fantastic scoring effort on Batman, I thought Elfman's hopes of topping it were fairly slim. He not only topped it but in my opinion produced a classic that is my favourite score of Elfman's career. Sandwiched between the two Batman movies, the effect of Elfman & Burton's Edward Scissorhands is obvious (Birth of a Penguin) and the festive setting of Returns gives the perfect opportunity for the 'La-la' choir that the composer handles so well. The highlight of this score is the addictive four-note Penguin theme that perfectly captures the twisted spirit of the villain in all of its variations. In it's last statement (The Final Confrontation) the funeral arrangement of his theme stayed with me long after the movie was over. For Catwoman we have the screeching sounds of 'mioaw' strings that are playful, sexy, angry and doomed. Batman's theme takes more of a back seat on this outing but the sheer richness of the rest of the score (Elfman had a little more character substance to work with) sets it above the original.

The quality of the disc is superb but for some reason the orchestra just doesn't sound as 'big' as the original, especially the snare drums (not sure if this is due to the orchestra size or the mixing). Bonus points for presentation of the score album: tracks like 'Cat Suite', 'Batman vs the Circus', 'Rise and Fall from Grace' and 'End Credits' are spot-on arrangements. And finally, it wraps with 'Face to Face' by Siouxsie, an excellent song based on the Penguin's theme.

I can't recommend it enough. If you have not already discovered Elfman's Batman scores then I envy you.

A career-best from Elfman, 27 Oct 2005
After such a fantastic scoring effort on Batman, I thought Elfman's hopes of topping it were fairly slim. He not only topped it but in my opinion produced a classic that is my favourite score of Elfman's career. Sandwiched between the two Batman movies, the effect of Elfman & Burton's Edward Scissorhands is obvious (Birth of a Penguin) and the festive setting of Returns gives the perfect opportunity for the 'La-la' choir that the composer handles so well. The highlight of this score is the addictive four-note Penguin theme that perfectly captures the twisted spirit of the villain in all of its variations. In it's last statement (The Final Confrontation) the funeral arrangement of his theme stayed with me long after the movie was over. For Catwoman we have the screeching sounds of 'mioaw' strings that are playful, angry and doomed. Batman's theme takes more of a back seat on this outing but the sheer richness of the rest of the score (Elfman had a little more character substance to work with) sets it above the original.

The quality of the disc is superb but for some reason the orchestra just doesn't sound as 'big' as the original (not sure if this is due to the orchestra size or the mixing). Bonus points for presentation of the score album: tracks like 'Cat Suite', 'Batman vs the Circus', 'Rise and Fall from Grace' and 'End Credits' are spot-on arrangements. And finally, it wraps with 'Face to Face' by Siouxsie, an excellent song based on the Penguin's theme.

I can't recommend it enough. If you have not already discovered Elfman's Batman scores then I envy you.

Exquisite!, 22 Jun 2005
Simply sublime! The wierdness of the classic film is perfectly captured by Elfman. The soprano choirs that have become his trademark can be found dotted all over the shop with the penguin's melody (which is reminiscent of Poor Jack from 'The Nightmare Before Christmas'). The Birth of a Penguin tracks open the film on a high note, with the same accompaniment rhythm that was used in the Descent Into Mystery track from the first film. And of course there are loads of the tinkly bells that he uses so well in 'Edward Scissorhands.' The Batman vs. The Circus tracks are also groovy, with the carnival-esque themes. And last but not least we have the excellent Catwoman's theme. This is quite possibly his greatest achievement; miss it at your peril!

ELFMAN RETURNS TO STEP UP TO BAT!, 30 May 2002
As far as the first film went Mr Elfman's style was a little too overelaborate at times (with the exception of the amazing End Title). This time is much more satisfactory, from the lush ride down the sewer with the Penguin to the deliriously exhilirating backflips of the Catwoman (accompanied by the usual abrupt finish as the building in the background goes up in flames in accordance with her "miaow!". This score also sets a new standard for treacly sentiment but with such fantastic stuff also contained here this minor quibble can just about be overlooked. The song contained on the soundtrack "Face to Face" by Siouxie and the Banshees/Danny Elfman is a smash and it's always nice to conclude with the March.
Overall, a much pleasant affair with plenty to recommend it but also the odd moment or two that could have been slightly better.

Possibly Elfman's finest hour (and a bit), 09 Dec 2000
Tim Burton's long-time collaborator Danny Elfman had a field day with this soundtrack - it's one of his darkest and yet most enchanting scores, the film's images of the freakish Penguin, tortured Catwoman and eerie Gotham City all pandering perfectly to his gothic style. The setting of the film - Gotham's Christmas turned into a nightmare (yes, explored very soon after in the similarly Burton-produced and Elfman-scored 'Nightmare Before Christmas') serves to heighten even further the music's perverse blend of fairy-tale bells and terrifying organs, which here dominate far more than the familiar Batman theme and booming brass of the original film. This is a BAD GUYS' soundtrack(!), and almost every track is a haunting, ethereal joy which stands on its own as well as fitting into the overall product. For Elfman or Burton fans this is a must-have; for anybody else, this'll be unlike anything else in your CD collection...

WOW, 18 Feb 2002
This is a master pice, im not a huge fan of this stlye or Danny elfman...but being a huge fan of the film i had to get this..and i could not believe how much i injoyed it, it starts off so well with great sounds..and finishs on a high..a few things to put it down.. 1 is that i found the middle to drag on a little and got boring..but that maybe cause of my taste in music but it helps if remember each track from the scean it came from, the other is the last 2 tracks shood be the other way round,, "end creadits" would have made a better way to close the cd, Harry belafontes "day-0" and "jump in line" are just great and really works well with this Score, Great dark, fun pice of music.

Ok, but really it's a gimmick..., 25 Aug 2008
The best thing about this CD is the cover and I have to say, what a cover it is. The Sgt. Pepper spin off is very clever, however, the same can't be said for the music.

Though some of the songs are quite catchy, they aren't very tuneful and they aren't particularly funny. The high pitched tones of Lisa and Bart can become annoying and this isn't really one to listen to over and over again.

If you are a real Simpsons fan and can pick this up for under £2 go for it, otherwise, don't bother, you are better off with a poster of the cover instead.

Like It Or Lump It, This Is Simpson's Style! {Bartholomew. J. Simpson.}, 14 Jun 2008
This is the second album of originally recorded songs, but the 3rd album overall from the stateside satire sensation The Simpson's.
The albums title is a parody of The Beatles' album commonly known as The White Album, and the cover is a parody of their 1967 album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band..
This album contains 10 songs and 46 minutes worth of music:
1. LOVE? 3:50. It reminds me of the Will Smith song SUMMERTIME, 9/10.
2.SISTERS ARE DOIN IT FOR THEMSELVES 4:00. A rockin' Eurythmics cover, featuring Lisa & Marge Simpson, Patty & Selma Bouvier and Nancy & Ann Wilson of HEART! 10/10.
3. FUNNY HOW TIME SLIPS AWAY 4:07. Yet more proof Mr Dan Castellaneta has a fabulous voice! I would've liked this song more if Linda Ronstadt had duetted with Barney instead of Homer, because her and Homer never met in her episode! {MR PLOW, season 4} 9.5/10.
4. TWENTY - FOUR HOURS A DAY 4:24. Mr Hank Azaria showcases his fabulous Indian accent! 10/10.
5.THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF BART 6:08.
Thou shalt be sure to shake your big rear end.
Thou shalt always make rhymes.
Thou shalt procrastinate.
Thou shalt go wild.
Thou shalt dance like lunatics.
Thou shalt be alive.
Thou shalt slam the door.
Thou shalt question authority.
Thou shalt do exactly what you wanna do.
Thou shalt have fun.
The best song featuring Bart on this album {the others being tracks 1, 6, 8 and 10} 20/20.
6. I JUST CANT HELP MYSELF 4:59. An insight into the minds of our favourite family {Homers hip-hop is HILARIOUS!} 9/10.
7. SHE'S COMIN' OUT SWINGIN' 6:38. This song is supposed to be Lisa duetting with the P-FUNK ALL STARS, but she hardly features! 7/10.
8. ANYONE ELSE 3:57. A Bart and Lisa duet, 8.5/10.
9. EVERY SUMMER WITH YOU 3:37.
A Marge and Homer duet, 9.5/10.
10. HAIL TO THEE KAMP KRUSTY 5:01. A school choir, guitars and jazz? It can only be the Simpson's! {this song is a different version to the one featured in the season 4 episode KAMP KRUSTY} 8.5/10.

This album doesn't come with song words, but rather an A4-ish piece of paper that folds out to reveal who worked on what song and what the characters names are on the front cover {see my customer images.}
To conclude, not my favourite Simpson's album, but a good album nonetheless.

Utterly fabulous!

YOU GOTTA GET THIS !!!!!, 15 Jul 2005
I got this album today,i bought it really because of the spoof Sgt pepper cover,however now i have listened to the cd,i cant get enough of it.
If this album had been vinyl,it would have been worn out by now!
My favourite track,and it's still implanted in my brain now is,Ten commandments of Bart,a catchy tune or wot,get the album,get on your headphones,turn up the volume,and let rip,if your head does not bop from side to side to my favorite track,then you must be dead.
Dava from GT Britain.

46 minutes of pleasure, 16 May 2005
This Album has been out for the last 7 years since 1998 and there still saying its not to be released till next week ! Well stand for it no longer if u are a simpsons fan or just a fan of fun cool music purchase this and my only reason for not giving this a 5 star is because it doesn't quite match the simpsons sing the blues so go to amazon.com and buy it from the good ol U.S.A

brillient, 10 Sep 2000
this is another great simpsons album my favourite songs on it are

24 hours aday - apu

and

love?

another simpsons masterpiece

The Most Perfect Music Ever Made ..., 04 May 2008
Even thought I havent received this yet, the music in the film was the most perfect music i've ever heard! Its weird, it used to be my favourite film when i was a little girl i was obsessed! And 15 years later i watch it again and all of those first time feelings come back. One of the most amazing-est love stories ever written by Tim Burton. The music makes the film perfect. :] Ill always love this film.

Breathtaking, stunningly beautiful music, 05 Jan 2008
Quite simply one of the most beautiful scores ever written for a movie and one that Elfman has never subsequently matched. Every track breathes life into the characters and the movie in turn takes its strength from its music. The only sub-quality track is the one by Tom Jones and although it doesn't spoil the album, it isn't of the same quality as the orchestral work by Danny Elfman.
This is an essntial for a fan of movie music. Buy it and enjoy it over and over again.

The most beautiful OST ever, 26 Sep 2007
It really is, I mean it. Especially The Great Finale, probably my favourite 3 minutes of music of any genre (considering I own more than 1700 CDs of classical music, no piracy here, that's saying something). It always moves me, and more than once tears fell while I was listening to it. The movie is a masterpiece, but without this music it would be less. That magic moment when Winona Ryder dances under the ice wouldn't be the same without Elfman's melody, or The Inventor's death (The strings here simply weep, it's amazing). There are perhaps richer, or more epic OST (The Lord of the Rings, the Star Wars cycle...). None has more beautiful music inside.

magical, 28 Feb 2007
I first saw this film because I had to write an essay on it, and absolutely fell in love with it! So I bought the CD and love that just as much. Danny Elfman's work is brilliant-the music is so magical and haunting. Definitely worth the money!

Beautiful music ...., 30 Jan 2006
Enchanting, magical, mesmerising, haunting, fantastical tracks! Especially track 7 - Ice Dance, which moved me so much I chose it as the track to walk down the aisle to when I got married! Every time I hear it, I well up. A friend describes it as "the type of music you would hear in heaven". It invokes memories of the charming movie its taken from and I completely agree with a previous reviewer - you will never look at snow in the same way again.

Brilliant score, 01 Jan 2008
This is a score for all fans of the comic book movie genre. Escpially those who like the darker-toned/more adult themed ones just like the Blade trilogy and of course Tim Burton's Batman and Batman Returns (which has another great score).

The music is brooding and really makes you feel like you want to go around your town/city dressed up (not that I would) in a bat costume going around sorting out crimes in a super car (one of the most memorable tracks of the CD is the charge of the Batmobile) and the Joker's music is great too because it's comical and camp but in a dark and twisted way if you know what I mean and, like Batman's themes, describes the character well. The final 6 tracks are outstanding and really make you root for the hero.

Get it. It's memorable. It's literally as good as the Superman score especially the opening track. Sadly though Prince's 'Trust' 'Partyman' and 'Scandalous' songs are not on this, they're on Batman the album.

Timeless, 02 Nov 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 31 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman’s gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like ‘Face Off’ and ‘Waltz to the Death’ are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of ‘Beautiful Dreamer’ borders on farce for Joker’s infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince’s ‘Scandalous’ but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious ‘Childhood Remembered’ and gothic ‘Up the Cathedral’ really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing ‘Descent into Mystery’ is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it’s big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Timeless, 27 Oct 2005
This trend-setting score has stood the test of time and sounds just as impressive now as it did fifteen years ago. Elfman's gothic style of scoring became almost a template for subsequent superhero movies and a revisit to this CD will demonstrate why. The Batman theme is fantastic: no matter how often Elfman uses this dark march (Main Theme, Batman to the Rescue, Attack of the Batwing), it never tires and never fails to excite. Things turn silly when it comes to the Joker and tracks like 'Face Off' and 'Waltz to the Death' are Tchaikovsky-like waltzes that compliment the action and the use of 'Beautiful Dreamer' borders on farce for Joker's infatuation with Vicki. As for Vicki Vale, there is a brief (and slightly tedious) theme for her relationship with Bruce that is allegedly based on Prince's 'Scandalous' but the connection is too disguised to spot easily.

What sets this score high above others is the soundscape that is established. Tracks like the mysterious 'Childhood Remembered' and gothic 'Up the Cathedral' really ground you into this fantasy world and the pulsing 'Descent into Mystery' is a career highlight that is always on replay on my stereo. The quality of the disc is good, showing off the size of the orchestra (it's big) and most of the score is on the CD without skipping too much out. This should, without a doubt, be in your soundtrack collection.

Never bettered, 30 Dec 2003
This is the soundtrack that defined a genre and a composer (it's so good that Elfman copied bits of it when writing his Spider-Man score).
Since there are so many Batman themes, I'll just say that "the one on the original cartoon? The one from the original movies with Burton and Keaton? and Jack Nicholson? This is the one".
Never has music so suited a character, the sweeping, Wagner-esque Batman theme is so fitting for the Dark Knight's brooding persona that is has become the natural association whenever people think of Batman (aside from a fat Adam West).
But not content with one main theme for a character, Elfman also has a few tracks devoted to the Joker's zany and insane character including an eeriely cheerful waltz towards the finale.
This is powerful music (3 minutes into track 16, tell me you can't feel the power of revenge) and it builds to a climax from haunting around the first half to full blown action in the second yet never losing it's pacing or going too over the top.
This is a worthy addition to your CD collection and if you want to make it even better, listen to it after the turgid "Batman and Robin" soundtrack

classic flicks, 17 Nov 2003
I recently listened to the music on the box set being played by the London Royal philharmonic orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall in London and immediately loved the music and bought the c.d box set. All the themes from the films are played brilliantly with a real joyous sound to them. The themes that I had seen the films to I think I enjoyed the most as I already new them yet hearing them being played by such a good orchestra really makes the c.d worth listening to. There is not a single bad track on the c.d and one of my particular favourites was 'the great escape' which really made me smile. This album is a must buy for anyone who enjoys film theme tunes or anyone who likes listening to an orchestra as talented as this. 5 stars!

A career-best from Elfman, 02 Nov 2005
After such a fantastic scoring effort on Batman, I thought Elfman's hopes of topping it were fairly slim. He not only topped it but in my opinion produced a classic that is my favourite score of Elfman's career. Sandwiched between the two Batman movies, the effect of Elfman & Burton's Edward Scissorhands is obvious (Birth of a Penguin) and the festive setting of Returns gives the perfect opportunity for the 'La-la' choir that the composer handles so well. The highlight of this score is the addictive four-note Penguin theme that perfectly captures the twisted spirit of the villain in all of its variations. In it's last statement (The Final Confrontation) the funeral arrangement of his theme stayed with me long after the movie was over. For Catwoman we have the screeching sounds of 'mioaw' strings that are playful, sexy, angry and doomed. Batman's theme takes more of a back seat on this outing but the sheer richness of the rest of the score (Elfman had a little more character substance to work with) sets it above the original.

The quality of the disc is superb but for some reason the orchestra just doesn't sound as 'big' as the original, especially the snare drums (not sure if this is due to the orchestra size or the mixing). Bonus points for presentation of the score album: tracks like 'Cat Suite', 'Batman vs the Circus', 'Rise and Fall from Grace' and 'End Credits' are spot-on arrangements. And finally, it wraps with 'Face to Face' by Siouxsie, an excellent song based on the Penguin's theme.

I can't recommend it enough. If you have not already discovered Elfman's Batman scores then I envy you.

A career-best from Elfman, 27 Oct 2005
After such a fantastic scoring effort on Batman, I thought Elfman's hopes of topping it were fairly slim. He not only topped it but in my opinion produced a classic that is my favourite score of Elfman's career. Sandwiched between the two Batman movies, the effect of Elfman & Burton's Edward Scissorhands is obvious (Birth of a Penguin) and the festive setting of Returns gives the perfect opportunity for the 'La-la' choir that the composer handles so well. The highlight of this score is the addictive four-note Penguin theme that perfectly captures the twisted spirit of the villain in all of its variations. In it's last statement (The Final Confrontation) the funeral arrangement of his theme stayed with me long after the movie was over. For Catwoman we have the screeching sounds of 'mioaw' strings that are playful, angry and doomed. Batman's theme takes more of a back seat on this outing but the sheer richness of the rest of the score (Elfman had a little more character substance to work with) sets it above the original.

The quality of the disc is superb but for some reason the orchestra just doesn't sound as 'big' as the original (not sure if this is due to the orchestra size or the mixing). Bonus points for presentation of the score album: tracks like 'Cat Suite', 'Batman vs the Circus', 'Rise and Fall from Grace' and 'End Credits' are spot-on arrangements. And finally, it wraps with 'Face to Face' by Siouxsie, an excellent song based on the Penguin's theme.

I can't recommend it enough. If you have not already discovered Elfman's Batman scores then I envy you.

Exquisite!, 22 Jun 2005
Simply sublime! The wierdness of the classic film is perfectly captured by Elfman. The soprano choirs that have become his trademark can be found dotted all over the shop with the penguin's melody (which is reminiscent of Poor Jack from 'The Nightmare Before Christmas'). The Birth of a Penguin tracks open the film on a high note, with the same accompaniment rhythm that was used in the Descent Into Mystery track from the first film. And of course there are loads of the tinkly bells that he uses so well in 'Edward Scissorhands.' The Batman vs. The Circus tracks are also groovy, with the carnival-esque themes. And last but not least we have the excellent Catwoman's theme. This is quite possibly his greatest achievement; miss it at your peril!

ELFMAN RETURNS TO STEP UP TO BAT!, 30 May 2002
As far as the first film went Mr Elfman's style was a little too overelaborate at times (with the exception of the amazing End Title). This time is much more satisfactory, from the lush ride down the sewer with the Penguin to the deliriously exhilirating backflips of the Catwoman (accompanied by the usual abrupt finish as the building in the background goes up in flames in accordance with her "miaow!". This score also sets a new standard for treacly sentiment but with such fantastic stuff also contained here this minor quibble can just about be overlooked. The song contained on the soundtrack "Face to Face" by Siouxie and the Banshees/Danny Elfman is a smash and it's always nice to conclude with the March.
Overall, a much pleasant affair with plenty to recommend it but also the odd moment or two that could have been slightly better.

Possibly Elfman's finest hour (and a bit), 09 Dec 2000
Tim Burton's long-time collaborator Danny Elfman had a field day with this soundtrack - it's one of his darkest and yet most enchanting scores, the film's images of the freakish Penguin, tortured Catwoman and eerie Gotham City all pandering perfectly to his gothic style. The setting of the film - Gotham's Christmas turned into a nightmare (yes, explored very soon after in the similarly Burton-produced and Elfman-scored 'Nightmare Before Christmas') serves to heighten even further the music's perverse blend of fairy-tale bells and terrifying organs, which here dominate far more than the familiar Batman theme and booming brass of the original film. This is a BAD GUYS' soundtrack(!), and almost every track is a haunting, ethereal joy which stands on its own as well as fitting into the overall product. For Elfman or Burton fans this is a must-have; for anybody else, this'll be unlike anything else in your CD collection...

WOW, 18 Feb 2002
This is a master pice, im not a huge fan of this stlye or Danny elfman...but being a huge fan of the film i had to get this..and i could not believe how much i injoyed it, it starts off so well with great sounds..and finishs on a high..a few things to put it do