What’s not to like? The best thing about Malcolm Arnold’s film music is that, like all great composers who work in this medium, it serves its fundamental purpose while at the same time sounding like Malcolm Arnold. Intelligent choice of projects doubtless has something to do with it; sheer talent accounts for the rest. This second volume in Chandos’ series of selections reconstructed from the original film soundtracks contains the overture to The Roots of Heaven and a suite from David Copperfield, both of which can be enjoyed complete on a recent Marco Polo release (see reviews). Two other works, the “Symphonic Study” Machines and the Comedy Suite from The Belles of St. Trinians, have been recorded previously by Classico, though these current versions offer superior playing and sound. The other works are, by and large, premieres, and the delightful Fantasy on Christmas Carols from “The Holly and The Ivy” and the suites from Trapeze and No Love for Johnnie make particularly auspicious debuts. Brilliant performances, great sonics, and terrific music combine in an irresistible package.
