The Evolution of the Soundtrack

It's really hard to think up a way to start a post without beginning with the word "So".

I've been adding to my collection of soundtracks and other music recently. But certainly not through any sort of means that might be considered illegal.

Of course not.

But I have discovered something about older soundtracks. The music is simple. Sometimes very simple. And it's not like it was a sudden shift.

Take for example "Conan the Destroyer" by Basil Poledouris. This sounds like it was recorded for (and in some instances recorded by) a high school, or possibly college concert band. There is really no complexity to it. I can almost picture it being performed by a marching band.

Now remember that this is a sequel. "Conan the Barbarian" also by Poledouris is much more complex.

Maybe it's just the orchestra that recorded it. Or even that is wasn't done by an orchestra. Maybe he didn't write the second one with strings in mind.

But you can even tell the difference in John Williams' works. His work before "Jaws" and "Star Wars" is just not fulfilling.

That's all. I don't really have any solutions, just observations.