I really liked the direction the soundtrack was taking under the baton of Trevor Jones, unfortunately that feeling of joy lasted only nine tracks. Michael Mann's decision to use two composers on this soundtrack was in this case, not the best of ideas. With two different styles, the first half is astounding while the second half leaves you wondering what CD is playing. That's not to say that Edelman's contribution is not good, but when it is paired with Jones's treatment, it pales in comparison. Often times it seems that the two didn't even consult eachother on what the other was writing and it ends up sounding like soundtracks from two separate movies.
With the Main Title pounding out the opening moments, the score grabs you. Combined with the fabulous cinematography of the movie, the score by Jones is downright awe inspiring. Considering what a powerful piece it is, Jones smartly uses the Main Title in portions of his part of the score. However, in the later part, it is all but forgotten. Another track of note from Jones is Elk Hunt. Again using the main theme, Jones provides a faster paced version of the previous track which builds up in tension until the elk is finally killed. Both The Glade Part II and Promentory stand out as well. The difference between the two is easily discernable but understandable given the different situation between the two times we hear it. The first to represent Daniel Day-Lewis and Madeline Stowe falling in love, and the second time to provide a basis for how much that love has grown as he chases after her.
As for Edelman's portion, it is a decent contribution but nothing like the first half of the CD. He does come in with at least one piece that fits in nicely with Jones's portion and that being The Courier. It is cut down in the final cut of the movie, but in the version that was shown on commercial television, that scene was played unedited and the music was unedited as well. It is a fast moving piece that is not too hard. It makes the courier's run seem like the graceful run of come animal. The second track that starts off with some promise is Pieces of a Story. Starting off as a compliment to the dinner table conversation in the movie, it ends up sounding like the synthesized score to some poor movie-of-the-week.
Total time: 55:01
1: Main Title (1:44)
2: Elk Hunt (1:49)
3: The Kiss (2:47)
4: The Glade Part II (2:34)
5: Fort Battle (4:20)
6: Promentory (6:13)
7: Monro's Office/Stockade (2:30)
8: Massacre/Canoes (6:52)
9: Top Of The World (2:44)
10: The Courier (2:27)
11: Cora (2:30)
12: River Walk and Discovery (5:30)
13: Parlay (3:46)
14: The British Arrival (2:00)
15: Pieces of a Story (4:58)
16: I Will Find You (1:42) - Clannad