Surprisingly soft and enjoyable music
Michael J. Mazza | 06/15/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"In these days of music albums, we come to expect the growing number of cd's with the word "Out" in them as much as madonna changes here act. But what sets this album apart from the annoying rest, is that it is a collection of stringed pieces and not high energy club music, and it is something the gay and lesbian communty can be proud of. When I saw this on amazon, I wasn't truly won over by it's integrity, but thought I would give it a shot. To my surprise it was very well done and orchestrated. The album is a collection from various gay themed movies, that are recreated by the varese sarabande label. So they are not the original pieces by the original composers, but that doesn't take away from the impact of the album as a whole. The music is a great collection, and is one that EVERONE can enjoy, gay or straight. The music is very soft and romantic, and a very enjoyable one to say the least. It is a nice change from the "Out" albums filled with nothing but club music. It's nice to have a change. So get this album is you really like the kind of music you would play on rainy days, or for that certain mood you looking for in music. You won't be disappointed."
An admirable soundtrack anthology
Michael J. Mazza | Pittsburgh, PA USA | 04/10/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
""Out at the Movies" is an anthology of excerpts from film scores. The theme tying the collection together is the fact that all of the scores sampled come from movies that focus on gay male characters: "In and Out," "La Cage Aux Folles," "To Wong Foo," and several more. These are not excerpts from the original soundtracks, but rather new recordings with musical arrangements by Grant Geissman. The production team has assembled a group of musicians who bring a gentle passion to these compositions.On the whole, this CD is a little bit too mellow for me: I think that it focuses too much on the softer side of these scores. But the interpretations are still very well done. I especially liked the wistful excerpt from Marc Shaiman's "In and Out," and the elegant nobility of Carter Burwell's "Gods and Monsters." Other composers whose work is covered include Rachel Portman, Ennio Morricone, Basil Poledouris, and more. This disc will make a great gift for fans of gay cinema, or of good instrumental music."
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1