WILLIAMS, JOHN

The original intent behind the release of the three Special Edition soundtracks was to place all of the available Star Wars music on the market and in the hands of fans. Though this collection includes new music from the Special Edition of the film -- previously unreleased music, a concert suite, and an alternate version of the music for the assault on Jabba the Hutt's sail barge -- it unfortunately doesn't include the original Sy Snootles track or the original Ewok celebration track. The music for Return of the Jedi is presented chronologically, with source music and alternate cues tucked away at the end of each disc, making those particular cuts easier to ignore (highly recommended in the case of the overbearing "Jedi Rocks," a new song composed for the Special Edition). Alas, ignoring John Williams' insipid, Yanni-like new addition to the score, "Victory Celebration," is only possible if you also manage to ignore the end title music. While the original celebration music, with its chorus line of demented Ewok voices, was no great joy, at least it had some interesting musical qualities. Despite its uninformative sleeve notes, this collection has a lot going for it. Musically, it sounds gorgeous; Williams turned in a score incorporating layer upon layer of thematic elements, risking a tendency toward composing music that was too ornate. Frills and trills abound, but Williams avoided allowing the score to be buried in them. Having the music assembled as a continuous master provides the listener with a more organic flow and a better listening experience overall, while the remixing and remastering have improved the sound and dynamic range enormously. Despite the missing music, this is definitely the version to have. ~ Steven McDonald, AMG

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