Search - Jeff Beal :: Carnivàle (Soundtrack from the Original HBO Series)

Best of late 2004: Fascinating Soundtrack

Manny Hernandez | Bay Area, CA | 03/10/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"As much as there is a certain resemblance in Jeff Beal's work for the music of the HBO Series "Carnivale" to the work of other top-notch composers such as James Newton-Howard or Howard Shore, I keep on being reminded more of the goth-based and medieval-sounding bands like Dead Can Dance as I go through the album. There is not a single weak spot in the entire 20 tracks.



All in all, comparisons aside, this is a fantastic and highly "visual" album, that can perfectly stand alone, but it also makes me want to see the series even more. If you enjoy this album, you will also like: "The Insider", "Baraka" and "Whale Rider"."

One of the Best Soundtracks I have ever heard

Sir Adam of Scots | (please remember to vote!!) | 01/03/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Jeff Beal and his crew have created something very special; something which rises above the rest.



There has only been two other times in my 22 years of living, where I have listened to a cd all the through twice, then purchased it on the spot. This makes three.



Carnivale will take your mind on a deep journey of imagination, and if you are like me, a writer, you will quickly get the urge to spray your creations on the written page. It echoes with familiar tones with the likes of Thomas Newman (The Green Mile, Fried Green Tomatoes, The War) and no doubt fans of his will love this rising star. Jeff Beal is also known for his works on the tv show Monk and the soundtrack for "Pollock".



What a work of art this is. The sweeping, haunting, mood's in tune will last with you for quite a while. I have allowed several friends and family members to listen to it, causing them to immediately want their own copy.



Carnivale is a hidden treasure. It is never too dark, but never to light. A wonderful blend of imaginative fuel. ~saos~"

"HBO series brilliant composing by Jeff Beal ~ Carnivale"

J. Lovins | Missouri-USA | 01/06/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Varese Records and HBO's acclaimed original new series "Carnivale", featuring the extremely entertaining score from Jeff Beal, inclusive with all the magic this talented composer can muster...takes place in the Heartland of America during the 1934 dust bowl...the 12 episode dramatic series illustrates the social havoc during the Great Depression.



The duties and task of composing a musical journey was given to Jeff Beal...his dark magical approach is a refreshing welcome with such cues as "CARNIVALE END TITLE(BEN'S THEME)", string instruments blend choral and brass brilliantly..."JUSTIN AT MR. CHIN'S(JUSTIN'S THEME)", impressive and impeccable capturing the moment and era of history..."LODZ AND BEN", creepy and emotionally gripping with outstanding orchestration..."WE CAN BE SAVED", mysterious interludes prevail with haunting overtones.



A "film-score-buffs" dream come true, with plenty of room to spare...highly addictive cues that will leave you wanting more of the same...hats off to Varese Records, Robert Townson (executive producer), Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman who composed and produced the "MAIN TITLE THEME", gets under your skin and stays there...this is a must have for all music collectors who can't get enough of top notch composing...just the way we like 'em!



Total Time: 60:07 on 26 Tracks ~ Varese Records 66627 ~ (12/14/2004)"