Back to Titanic.

Back to Titanic. Original music composed and conducted by James Horner. Sony SK 60691.

I can't remember when I last sat through and reviewed a movie soundtrack recording. I usually find them repetitive and dull. But I thoroughly enjoyed this second album of music from Titanic; much of it composed directly for the film, other pieces newly recorded. For anyone who was moved by the film, and that is only about several million people, this new disc should move them even further.

The disc sets the mood from the beginning with an extended suite of familiar music from the movie. There follows a series of diverse offerings -- vocal, orchestral, and instrumental -- that pretty much encapsulates the plot of the story. Survivors of the disaster differ on what tune was played by the ship's band as she went down; tradition has settled on the sentimental favorite, "Nearer My God To Thee," but it was more likely "Alexander's Ragtime Band," a number-one hit of the year before the sinking. The album gives us both songs, played by the salon orchestra, I Salonisti, and then "Nearer My God" again on solo violin. Other items include "My Heart Will Go On," sung by Celine Dion; "An Irish Party," performed by Gaelic Storm; "Come Josephine, in My Flying Machine," with Maire Brennan; bits and pieces of dialogue from the film; and various orchestral interludes.

Lest the audiophile be worried about the sound, let me assure you that this disc is a cut above most soundtrack albums. The orchestral chores are carried out by the London Symphony Orchestra, recorded at Air Studios Lyndhurst Hall, London, and mastered at Abbey Road Studios. The sound is sometimes recessed but always smooth and natural. The thunderously deep bass is used sparingly to good effect. It's hard keeping a dry eye just listening to this stuff, so it's no wonder the film made more money than anything Hollywood has ever produced. I suppose it's best if you've seen the film, but even if you haven't, this new disc is a touching experience.