Black Patch / The Man

Dive into the early cinematic genius of Jerry Goldsmith with this captivating collection of his first theatrical film scores. "Black Patch / The Man" presents the world premiere recordings of two rare and elusive scores, meticulously re-recorded by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra under the baton of William T. Stromberg. This album showcases Goldsmith's versatility and prowess, offering a unique glimpse into his formative years as a composer.

The album begins with "Black Patch," Goldsmith's debut feature score for the 1957 Western directed by Allen Miner. This low-key gem features a blend of traditional Western motifs and innovative orchestration, hinting at the composer's future mastery of the genre. The score's highlights include the tense "The Showdown" and the dramatic "The Duel," which showcase Goldsmith's ability to create suspense and excitement.

The second half of the album is dedicated to "The Man," a 1972 political drama that explores the challenges faced by the first African American president. Goldsmith's score is both powerful and subtle, with standout tracks like "They Want A President" and "Protests" capturing the political turmoil and social unrest of the era. The album concludes with the stirring "Hail To The Chief And End Credits," a fitting tribute to Goldsmith's ability to create memorable and impactful film music.

With a total duration of 51 minutes, this album is a treasure trove for fans of film music and those eager to explore the early works of one of Hollywood's most prolific composers. The high-quality recordings and insightful liner notes make this release an essential addition to any film score enthusiast's collection.