C. Michael Massey | St. Louis, Missouri | 06/21/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"John Williams perfectly sets the mood for the action of this wonderful film with this, its beautifully romantic score. Unlike other soundtracks, and that for *The Thomas Crown Affair* in particular, which would obviously draw comparisons due to its use of Sting singing the film's main theme, the soundtrack to *Sabrina* is perfect for not only re-living great moments in the film, but also to simply listen to on its own.I think Sting's rendition of "Moonlight" on track 2 is gentle and romantic, as is "The Party Sequence" on track 9--elegant songs for an elegant film, perfectly enhancing the beauty of *Sabrina*'s snazzy parties and graceful New England settings. Likewise, tracks like 3 and 4 ("Linus' New Life" and "Growing Up in Paris") are beautifully soaring, wonderfully uplifting, and joyously melancholy. Classic standards like "Stella by Starlight," "La Vie En Rose," "Call Me Irresponsible," "When Joanna Loved Me," and my personal favorite "The Shadow of Your Smile" all are blended well with the album's elegant sensitivities."How Can I Remember" on track 11 might be the only track I could find fault with, as I think Michael Dees seems to be struggling a bit more than he should in order to reach higher and more drawn out notes. Regardless, it remains a beautiful track and embodies the subdued elegance and grace of the rest of the album.I highly recommended this as the perfect music for anyone to listen to while lounging around the house (or apartment), while driving through the countryside on a sunny afternoon, rising and falling with the crests of sun-drenched hillsides, or even while soaking in a warm bubble bath sipping champagne from a slender flute shared with a loved one.Buy it, turn it on, and let IT take you away."
Romantic Music to die for. One of Williams' best!
C. Michael Massey | 07/14/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"After I saw the movie at a press screening(a few years ago), I ran out to buy the CD but it wasn't available for another week. When I got the CD, it was everything I hoped for and more. It's been a few years and I listen to it now, this music is TIMELESS. It WILL put you in the mood for love and romance. This score reminds me a little of the Witches of Eastwick soundtrack, whick Williams did. But while that is more whimsical and scary, this is romantic, breezy, haunting at times. Sting's 'Moonlight' is a killer. This score and song got nominated for 2 oscars but failed to win(happens, Williams won too many already. Might have won some Golden Globe or Grammies.) Look, everyone here at Amazon gave it five stars, I've bought three(gifts). So take out your credit card and get this CD. It is one of the best CDs I have and you will not regret it, even if you like punk rock."
Wonderfully engaging...
thenextmeryl | NY, United States | 11/15/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The "Sabrina" score is elegant, classic, and haunting- I listen to it all of the time and it just creates a beautiful mood. I have found that the best time of year to listen to this cd is the fall because the melodies are soft and twinkle, like falling leaves. However spring and summer are also quite lovely, especially with the top down. Number thirteen is worth the money in my opinion. This is the perfect score in my collection."
Williams At His Most Elegant
Luis M. Ramos | Caracas, Venezuela | 11/28/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I was very surprised -yet pleased -that director Sydney Pollack went after John Williams for the score to "Sabrina", instead of his usual composer, Dave Grusin. But since I am a huge fan of John Williams, I couldn't have been happier for what is, perhaps, one of his most elegant and sophisticated scores ever.
The theme from "Sabrina" is incredibly lovely, as it is mostly played on piano, segueing to a lovely full orchestra rendition, and culminating back with the piano. 'Moonlight' is another great highlight, and I have to say this: it's incredible to see the names John Williams and Sting together in one single track; and Sting makes one memorable performance of this song. And of course, there are many variations of 'Moonlight' played by the orchestra in a very spectacular and fashionable way: specially in the track 'Linus' New Life', which closes wonderfully with Sabrina's theme. Then there is this other theme heard throughout the movie describing Sabrina's loneliness and growth, which is also lovely, and it's fully developed in a song called 'How Can I Remember?' Beautiful, indeed. And one other treat can be found in 'The Party Sequence' with fantastic selections of classic jazz and romantic pieces, among them 'The Shadow Of Your Smile' and 'Stella By Starlight'.
Williams really did a great job on "Sabrina", and the album is one of the best compilations someone can enjoy. If you want to enjoy a very relaxing night with nice music in the background, this CD might just be your ticket."
Williams Fans CANNOT Miss This Treasure
Media Lover | 09/26/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I recieved this score as a birthday present a few weeks ago, WOW! It has already become a personal treasure, and I dare say it will always be one of my favorite Williams scores. The score is a seamless blend of jazz, glorious thematic beauty, classical pomp, and wonderful old fashioned ballads.
In short, this is an album Williams fans can not afford to miss, and a treat for anyone just entering the world of film scores."