The Man in Half Moon Street

Immerse yourself in the cinematic genius of Miklós Rózsa with this captivating collection of re-recorded scores. This album, released on April 1, 2014, under the Intrada label, offers a compelling journey through some of Rózsa's most iconic film compositions. Spanning just under an hour, this album is a testament to Rózsa's mastery of dramatic and evocative music, particularly his work in the film noir genre.

The album kicks off with the stirring "Overture" from "Valley of the Kings" (1954), setting the stage for a series of re-recorded pieces from various films. Highlights include the haunting melodies from "The Man in Half Moon Street" (1945), a film that marks Rózsa's entry into his film noir period. The suite features a variety of moods, from the eerie "Prelude and Ghostly Prologue" to the romantic "Love Theme," beautifully performed by pianist Mike Lang.

Fans of classic cinema will recognize the dramatic "Suite" from "Sahara" (1943) and the evocative "Prelude / Love Part 1 / Love Part 2" from "The Strange Love of Martha Ivers" (1946). Each piece is meticulously re-recorded, preserving the original spirit while offering a fresh listening experience.

Whether you're a longtime admirer of Miklós Rózsa or a newcomer to his work, this album is a treasure trove of cinematic scores that showcase his unparalleled talent and enduring influence. The album's duration of 47 minutes ensures a concise yet impactful exploration of Rózsa's musical genius.

Miklós Rózsa, a Hungarian-American composer, is celebrated for his prolific and influential career in both film and classical music. Born in Budapest, Rózsa's journey took him through Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and ultimately to the United States, where he spent the majority of his professional life. His extensive filmography includes nearly one hundred scores, with standout works for iconic films such as "The Thief of Baghdad," "Ben-Hur," and "Spellbound." Rózsa's score for "Ben-Hur" remains one of the longest and most celebrated in cinematic history. Despite his immense success in film, Rózsa remained deeply committed to concert music, composing several concertos and maintaining what he referred to as his "double life." His ability to seamlessly blend his classical training with the demands of film scoring has left an indelible mark on both industries, earning him three Academy Awards and a lasting legacy as one of the most gifted composers of his generation.