Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves is one of the most exciting scores I've ever heard from Michael Kamen. Unlike his work on the Die Hard movies, here the music is more moving and full of life. Each piece has a power of its own, and it properly invokes the nobility of the legendary Robin Hood. From the rousing Overture to its reprise in Training - Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves, Kamen keeps a consistant theme that is easily recognizeable. His theme for Maid Marian is equally as eloquent in representing her character. It is usually presented at a softer version of the main overture or an instrumental version of (Everything I Do)I Do It For You.
In terms of action, the movie has a lot of it, and the score is no exception either. Kamen's action pieces are just as exciting to listen to without the action on the screen in front of us. Of particular note in action cues is Sir Guy of Gisborne and the Escape to Sherwood and The Abduction and the Final Battle at the Gallows. Another unusual theme accompanying an action sequence is Little John and the Band in the Forest. It is unlike any of the other action cues on the soundtrack and is fun to listen to. As for the evil themes of the Sheriff and the rest of the villians, while being on the darker side, they are not quite as good. Often times, there is a shrill whistling that makes it seem as if a stray bird or two had slipped into the recording studio and decided to make its own contribution. It detracts from the experience somewhat, but you quickly get used to it if you make an effort to do so.
The song by Bryan Adams, (Everything I Do) I Do It For You is the better of the two and as such it was one of the most popular songs of 1991 and it is still one of the favorites that people like to have dedicated to loved ones on the radio. As for Jeff Lynne's Wild Times, it may have been overlooked if you didn't really listen carefully while watching the movie. During the party in Sherwood when Marian first arrives is when the song can be heard, but, you need to listen carefully. While a decent song, it isn't quite as good as Bryan Adams'.
Total time: 60:25
1: Overture and a Prisoner of the Crusades (From Chains to Freedom) (8:23)
2: Sir Guy of Gisborne and the Escape to Sherwood (7:23)
3: Little John and the Band in the Forest (4:48)
4: The Sheriff and His Witch (5:59)
5: Maid Marian (2:55)
6: Training - Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves (5:11)
7: Marian at the Waterfall (5:30)
8: The Abduction and the Final Battle at the Gallows (9:53)
9: "(Everything I Do) I Do It For You" (6:36) - Bryan Adams
10: "Wild Times" (3:12) - Jeff Lynne