Label: FSMCD Vol.7 No.9 Date: 1953 Tracks: 20 Time = 68:03 Original soundtrack from magnificent MGM treatment of Shakespeare tale starring Marlon Brando. Not to be confused with 1995 Intrada re-recording of same score under baton of Bruce Broughton, this is drawn from original mono master elements (1953 stereo masters were destroyed). Complete score plays, then variety of pre-recordings, shorter versions follow. Rozsa starts score with rich treatment of Brutus theme in low strings for "Overture", then lets Caesar's theme emerge for main titles ("Preludium"). In crowning moment, Rozsa musically transfers power of slain Julius Caesar to avenger Marc Antony during climax of "Black Sentence". From here on, Caesar's theme (now Antony's) in brass does battle for time with noble Brutus melody in strings. They combine during climactic "Caesar Now Be Still". How Caesar/Antony's theme ultimately triumphs is a true musical gem. Lavish notes chronicle entire production history, fine graphics offer terrific glimpse of early Brando. Top drawer in every department. Miklos Rozsa conducts. Bullseye!
