19 of 20 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Best of late 2004: Fascinating Soundtrack, Mar 10 2005
By Manny Hernandez "@askmanny" - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Carnivale (Audio CD)
As much as there is a certain resemblance in Jeff Beal's work for the music of the HBO Series "Carnivale" to the work of other top-notch composers such as James Newton-Howard or Howard Shore, I keep on being reminded more of the goth-based and medieval-sounding bands like Dead Can Dance as I go through the album. There is not a single weak spot in the entire 20 tracks.
All in all, comparisons aside, this is a fantastic and highly "visual" album, that can perfectly stand alone, but it also makes me want to see the series even more. If you enjoy this album, you will also like: "The Insider", "Baraka" and "Whale Rider".
13 of 14 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
One of the Best Soundtracks I have ever heard, Jan 3 2005
By Adam Hunnicutt "A.H." - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Carnivale (Audio CD)
Jeff Beal and his crew have created something very special; something which rises above the rest.
There has only been two other times in my 22 years of living, where I have listened to a cd all the through twice, then purchased it on the spot. This makes three.
Carnivale will take your mind on a deep journey of imagination, and if you are like me, a writer, you will quickly get the urge to spray your creations on the written page. It echoes with familiar tones with the likes of Thomas Newman (The Green Mile, Fried Green Tomatoes, The War) and no doubt fans of his will love this rising star. Jeff Beal is also known for his works on the tv show Monk and the soundtrack for "Pollock".
What a work of art this is. The sweeping, haunting, mood's in tune will last with you for quite a while. I have allowed several friends and family members to listen to it, causing them to immediately want their own copy.
Carnivale is a hidden treasure. It is never too dark, but never to light. A wonderful blend of imaginative fuel. ~saos~
7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Accompanies the series very well..., Aug 2 2005
By perfecto - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Carnivale (Audio CD)
The fact that Jeff Beal won an Emmy for his work in Carnivale speaks for itself. Carnivale has a superb storyline and fantastic acting, but the music is something that greatly attributes to the success of this show as well. Just like the series, the music sets the tone for an environment of depression and decay superbly. Jeff Beal has a talent for composing amazing music, haunting and beautiful. Some of the tunes still send chills down my spine, and I recall the scenes so very clearly. From the main title theme of Carnivale, Jeff Beal astounds us with music that represents the show...layered and eerie, good and bad, soothing and disturbing all at the same time. If you love Carnivale, this will make a nice addition to your collection, I believe that the show cannot be seperated from the music, thus making it a very worthwhile investment. Trust me on this.