Such is the cultural influence of Star Wars that each new film feels like a piece of cinematic history being made. Similar sentiments can be expressed about each new film’s soundtrack – especially with the legendary composer John Williams at the helm.
With such established Star Wars favorites as Han Solo, Leia and R2-D2 having been brought back for The Force Awakens, it seems to be in a similar spirit that Williams has returned for a whole new score. While there’s the risk of a “disappointing school reunion” feel with this kind of strategy, the new compositions in this album are reassuringly solid, providing an aural rollercoaster to match the movie’s narrative one.
So, there are pulse-quickening pieces like “The Rathtars!” and “The Abduction”, more somber and tender moments such as “Finn’s Confession” and “The Starkiller”, and… well, how could Williams have resisted a few subtle nods to the past? Particularly hardened Star Wars fans should, for example, listen to the track “Han and Leia” and spot the leitmotifs. Overall, whether or not you’ve yet seen the movie, there’s plenty to like here.
