Featuring James Fitzpatrick conducting the City of Prague Philharmonic.
A classic western score that had more to it then just the catchy main theme. Sure, there’s memorable themes, bouncy music and fun action material but there is some exceptional dramatic writing as well. Check out the track “Businesslike Mattie/Papa’s Things” It’s a shining example of Bernstein’s brilliant underscore writing. It’s a very modern piece that surprised this listener who admittedly isn’t very familiar with this score in its entirety.
NOW PLAYING: “Businesslike Mattie/Papa’s Things” | True Grit | Elmer Bernstein
The bonus material is great as you get to hear 5 classic (and similarity-styled) themes from John Wayne films composed by Bernstein. The sound quality is above average for a Prague recording. The trumpets really stand out but I find the percussion really dominates when they show up and the reverb drowns out the rest of the orchestra. My favorite True Grit recording continues to be the Elmer Bernstein/Utah Symphony recording which was re-released on Varese Sarabande a few years ago. But as for expanded editions, this Tadlow release is worth your hard-earned cash.
TRUE GRIT | Tadlow Music 002 | Release Date: 2006
