The Matrix

Review by Thomas Glorieux:

The movie The Matrix is something that has never been done before and is without doubt one of the best futuristic action movies out there, delivering an epic feel that is quite extraordinary for the genre. You can say the same about the music that was written by Don Davis. This is no walk in the park, it is also not done before musically which makes it a perfect fit for the movie it accompanies. The Matrix is actually a score that couldn't accompany a movie any better and offers some moments which makes you either love or hate the score from the start to the end. Don Davis has his own style and this makes it hard to resist during the movie. Yet on the other hand it is not to like what's coming your way in this score, but more accept it without consequence. It is especially the brass that gives this score the special feel and the quick rhythm that makes the score almost unique to hear. But given the circumstances which involves the dissonance that surrounds the score, it is also a score that can work on your nerves, even if it musically underscores it the best way it can.

The first track is already an example of what this score uses as technique and style, 'Main Title / Trinity Infinity' uses effective chase music that is both rhythmic and strong. It especially works to give you this futuristic feel and awe. On the other hand you have the cases with 'Unable to Speak' and 'Exit Mr. Hat' that is full on dissonance. It perfectly suits the movie and that's why I'm accepting it but liking it isn't the idea that came to mind. 'The Power Plant' is one of the better tracks which uses awe inspiring choral work to represent the real world and the boy soprano during 'Welcome to the Real World' is equally fitting. 'Ontological Shock' is probably the one track you will like from start to finish because it uses heroic fanfares, fast paced brass music that never ends and a very good theme (used very briefly) to show that Neo is indeed the one. The last track which actually brings the best thematic music is equally powerful in the epic way, 'Anything is Possible' has in the middle exploding fanfares that give you both a gigantic climax (especially if you play it loud) and more, it is outstanding when seen with the visuals on screen. The last sign of the dissonance after it you have to accept I'm afraid.

The overall thought behind The Matrix score will and forever be the same, it is a perfect fit and a groundbreaking listening experience, showing ideas that have never been done before. On the other hand, it does cover some dissonance that can irritate you quickly, making the listening experience on a side harder to enjoy. But you have to appreciate it because it simply works during the scenes, more it gives you the perfect feel that you are sitting on edge. The Matrix by Don Davis is then also a score I deeply recommended for those who liked what they heard and know what they are getting. On the other end, I would advice those not knowing a thing about it to first see the movie (I personally would be shocked if you would never have seen this groundbreaking film once in your life). The Matrix is a score that demands your attention. If you are not ready for it, you will not like it. Still, on the other end, it has got the moments that make a film proud, including so its original release on CD. It is simply a score for those wanting more of that bullet-time action. And I can't say I'm not one of them.

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Tracks

Single Disc

1. Main Title / Trinity Infinity (3.53)

2. Unable To Speak (1.13)

3. The Power Plant (2.40)

4. Welcome To The Real World (2.25)

5. The Hotel Ambush (5.21)

6. Exit Mr. Hat (1.20)

7. A Virus (1.31)

8. Bullet-Time (1.09)

9. Ontological Shock (3.31)

10. Anything Is Possible (6.48)

Total Length: 30.11

The use of artwork or photos is posted for non profitable reasons

=== Link to Composer Site: Don Davis ===