The latest Elfman and Burton collaboration is a great wild and wacky pastiche of those tacky 50's B-movies. Of course, Elfman's work is much more inspiring and clever than those scores were. Mars Attacks has one of those groovy themes that you'll be humming or whistling to yourself after you hear it. Its use in the Main Titles makes that my favourite track on the CD and indeed is one of my favourite themes at the moment. Full orchestra is combined with some weird synths that often hark back to those tacky B-movies. Some of the tracks are very synth dominated and get a little too weird for my liking, but I actually like them more and more each time. They are, however, usually combined with some really hippie like drums and choir. Elfman's use of choir and in particular, female voice and various moments is inspiring.
There are moments that hark back to some of his earlier scores, particularly Nightbreed and some hints of Mission Impossible, but it is by no means unoriginal and has some very inspired moments. Return Message has a brief burst of jazzy saxophone! As well as all the weirdness, there are some more "regular" moments, particularly towards the end. They are upbeat, "we've won" type material which nicely counterbalances the rest of the score. One particular pair of tracks, Martian Madame and Martian lounge need a mention as they are built around hippie drum rhythms with Sitars (I think), female voice and some synths and have the most mesmerising effect. It is best heard after having seen the film, but even on its own is great to listen to. The End Credits aren't nearly as good as the opening titles, but still effectively end the soundtrack. Well, almost. For those who haven't seen the film, spoilers ahead! The yodelling music that eventually kills the Martians is included and is great listening for its kitsch value really. It's Not Unusual, sung by the evergreen Tom Jones is also included as it's the song that Tom sings when on stage in the film. One of the only soundtracks where I would rate the songs as well as the score!
Rating ~ 