I wont be much helpful, because I have only one thing I really want on that CD and you already included it. It is “Diaspora Oratorio”, the best piece of music I heard in years.

I never thought, that choral would be the best thing for BSG, but you are a genius :)

Anyway, if you say that second part of the season is even better that the first one, I can’t wait. Wait a minute, I couldn’t wait for 9 frakkin months now.

P.S.: Just saw “Music of BSG” documentary from Season 4.0 DVDs and I literally fell under my table laughing! Eddie and Hogan are hilarious :)

Left by Deus_cz on January 11th, 2009

Bear, “The Signal” and “Diaspora Oratorio” have left me clamoring for the S4 album from the moment I heard them. Heck, I’d buy an album for just those two songs, even though your other work is truly beautiful as well (I own your scores for the first three seasons). I know what a wonderful reception you received for your work in Revelations in particular, so I hope that in the tough process of culling songs, you won’t consider cutting either of these.

Left by Chris on January 11th, 2009

I’m still hoping for that 24-bit/96kHz DVD-Audio release containing all four seasons. Maybe put some B-sides on there that didn’t make the CDs. Call it a “Collectors Edition” and bundle some cool stuff with it. That would really make my day!

But to get back to the question.. It has been so long that I don’t remember the first half of season 4 as well as I’d like. I’m going to be re-watching it over the next few days so I’m sure I’ll have some opinions soon!

Left by cory on January 11th, 2009

Thanks for soliciting suggestions like this. I think your contact with fans and large amounts of making-of commentary contribute to making you awesome almost as much as the music itself does.

I might come up with some more ideas as I rewatch the new DVDs to get keyed up for the new episodes (nice documentary, by the way), but for now, here are the things that I remember liking that aren’t on your list.

The space battle at the opening of “He That Believeth In Me.”

The palindromic cue from the two Baltars scene in “Six of One.” You could even save album space by only putting on the first half and having us assemble it at home!

And, speaking of “Six of One,” the music from Lee and Kara’s farewell in the brig right before the ceremony on the hanger was another keeper in my eyes.

For Gaeta’s Lament, I really love the instrumental version at the end of “Guess What’s Coming To Dinner,” so I’d vote for that and a separate vocal version. They’re already different enough in the show to justify having two takes on the song in the album, like “A Good Lighter” and “Wander My Friends” in season 1.

While it is very short, I liked the percussive version of the rhythmic groove from “All Along the Watchtower” when Tigh was heading towards Adama’s corridor to tell him he was a Cylon.

That’s all I’ve got so far, but I’ll be following these comments with interest, and I’ll keep my ears open as I rewatch the show.

Left by David Gian-Cursio on January 11th, 2009

Hi.
In addition to the cues you selected, I’d really like to hear the Taiko action cue from the beginning of “He That Believeth in Me”. That would be a great album opener.
Another piece should be season 4’s incarnation of Kara’s theme (it plays in “The Ties that Bind” the first time we see Kara. It shows how much the character changed since season 2’s “Escape from the Farm” and sounds so nice, peacefully. I think it’s the best incarnation of Kara’s theme yet.
I’d also like to ask, what are the chances that we get to hear another version of “Passacaglia” before the series ends?

Left by Tom_19 on January 12th, 2009

I am glad “the Resurrection Hub” and “Diaspora Oratorio” are on the shortlist. I hope they make the final cut, and I cannot wait for what lies ahead in the following weeks with the new episodes!

Left by Oscalito on January 12th, 2009

Bear –
that’s a tough question as we haven’t seen (respectively heard) the 2nd part of the 4th season yet.
I will re-watch the 1st part and post my commentarys afterwards. Then after January 16th everybody could post their favs after each episode.
So say we all,
Sandra

Left by Sandra on January 12th, 2009

Please don’t cut #7. I killed my mouse replaying certain parts of Revelations just to hear the score last year.

Left by fanshawe on January 12th, 2009

Good morning Mr. McCreary, and let me just say that this is like getting to tell Santa what I want for Christmas:

Obviously space is going to be limited (I can’t wait to see what you come up with for “Daybreak, Parts I to III”), but surely some of the clips below might be able to make the cut.

As you previously stated, since some of the cues are quite short (at least as presented in the show), maybe you could create some sort of medley (especially with the extensive and varied usage of the Final Five or Kara’s Big Destiny Themes) during 4.0.

Anyway, here goes:

4×03 “He That Believeth In Me”

• The battle in the Nebula (broadcast times are 2:35 to 4:03 and 5:35 to 9:32)

• Starbuck takes Roslin hostage (41:30 to 42:58) – This can be combined with the opening scene of “Six Of One” (2:15 to 4:03)– (Kara’s Big Destiny)

4×04 “Six Of One”

• Adama strangles Starbuck in the brig (KBD) (14:16 to 14:45)

• The Starbuck / Apollo goodbye scene (29:28 to 31:11)

4×06 “The Ties That Bind”

• The introduction to the Demetrius, as Kara paints on the wall (KBD) (9:57 to 11:09)

4×07 “Escape Velocity”

• The FF cue right after Tyrol is demoted (Final Five Theme) (28:47 to 29:49)

4×08 “The Road Less Traveled”

• Tori talks to Tyrol in the launch tube (FFT) (14:55 to 16:15)

• Anders talks to Leoben (FFT) (18:42 to 20:40)

• The last scene of the episode, as the mutiny begins (40:30 to 43:07) – combine this with its continuation during the opening scene of “Faith” (1:43 to 3:50)

4×09 “Faith”

• Starbuck sees the comet (KBD) (11:23 to 11:58)

• The little mini montage as the Demetrius crew waits for Starbucks return (containing the tease of “Gaeta’s Lament”) as she talks to the hybrid (25:17 to 29:07) (KBD)

• The final countdown before the Demetrius has to leave (37:21 to 39:27)

4×10 “Guess What’s Coming To Dinner”

• The pre-jump prep of the Demetrius (3:57 to 5:40)

• Panic in the fleet as the Basestar jumps in without the Demetrius (5:54 to 8:18)

• Colonial Marines and Col. Tigh board the basestar (9:02 to 10:11)

• Yes on BOTH versions of Gatea’s Lament (Alessandro’s acoustic and the ending montage), please, please, please!

4×12 “Revelations”

As much of as this score as humanly possible. I really liked your idea of having the complete episode score of few selected episodes combined together (something Varese Sarabande did with Michael Giacchino’s score for the LOST Season 3 finale “Through the Looking Glass”), if you save it for another post series album.

If not, these are the other main standouts:

• D’Anna arrives on the Basestar (5:35 to 6:44)

• Tori reveals herself to Roslin and Baltar (12:15 to 13:33) (FFT)

• Col Tigh’s march of doom (16:33 to 16:55) (FFT)

• Adama gets drunk and drools all over Lee (20:03 to 21:07)

• Anders gets revealed to Starbuck (24:24 to 25:15)

• Cylons arrive on the Battlestar and Lee gives his big speech (30:25 to 33:15) (FFT)

—

Whenever the new concerts roll around, I greatly look forward to hearing “The Signal” and “Diaspora Oratorio” sung with a 50+ person choir (if such a thing is possible), that would be so amazing!!!

(I saw Howard Shore conduct his LOTR symphony here in my hometown, and imagine something similar can be done up in Vancouver at the Opera House)

Left by vicmackey187 on January 12th, 2009

I’d like to hear the “main” theme from Razor. It was such a distinctive standout bit of music for the whole movie from the opening monologue onwards that it would be sorely missed if it didn’t make it onto the CD.

The only other bit would be the “Starbuck pegs it down the corridor while the choir goes all shouty” bit from Revalations. For me that was the bit where I realised the music was getting extra-special for that episode.

But hey, you’ve got the big three on there already (Gaeta’s Lament, the Hub theme and Diaspora Oratorio) so I’m already a happy bunny. And I guess you’ll have to leave room for the other half of the season on there. Hrrmmm. I guess I’m less keen for another reprise of the Adama theme since it featured pretty prominently on the season one CD, if you end up strapped for time.

Left by Bobsy on January 12th, 2009

Personally I feel like the guess what’s coming to dinner music should be one long track, very much like deathbed and maelstrom on season 3’s soundtrack.

The music in that episode was incredible. It flowed perfectly from scene to scene (my opinion of course) and by the time Athena shoots Natalie its just waaaay beyond cool. I find that my brother and I have it stuck in our head often. We resort to humming it.

My only real suggestion is that, I definitely think you should try to put that as a track that flows somewhat in the same order as it did in the show (if possible, if not, I’ll still listen to it all the time).

Everything else seems perfect. Do you think you’ll ever put out a Razor soundtrack? I really enjoyed alot of the music on that.

On another note I will compliment all of the work you have done on the show, It is quite literally some of the best music I have ever heard (or some of my favorite). ESPECIALLY the stuff contained in Guess what.., the hub and revelations.

I’ll watch again and point out anything else I really like.

Left by jarnold on January 12th, 2009

Hey Bear,

looks like a good list already. The only things I would suggest concerning it currently are that maybe one of the many iterations of Kendra’s Theme from Razor could maybe be included, and that you should definitely do both the vocal and instrumental ‘episode finale’ version of Gaeta’s Lament if you can fit it on the CD ;)

Rock on! ^^

Left by RR on January 12th, 2009

Thanks for the chance to provide some input!
I’d love to hear more of the Final 5 Theme,
I don’t recall the episode, but I remember one great short version with percussion??

Left by CaptPorridge on January 12th, 2009

There should definitely be the intro song from The Hub. Amazing piece.

Left by nohous on January 12th, 2009

I like the Destiny from the start of “Ties” with Starbuck searching through charts, which foreshadows the Basestar in “Faith”

The version of Baltar’s Cult I always remember is from Escape Velocity “We are all perfect…”

Left by dowlingm on January 12th, 2009

“I know some of you are clamoring for a double album, but I really want to create a single-disc soundtrack”

How about a Season 4.0 soundtrack and a Season 4.5 soundtrack? They do that with the DVD releases. No reason why you couldn’t do that with the soundtracks too.

- M. \”?

Left by Meowlin on January 12th, 2009

“What have you heard so far that has caught your ear?”

* 2. “Baltar’s Cult”
The choral chant sung in He That Believeth…

~~ Definitely.

* 5. “Gaeta’s Lament”
from Guess What’s Coming to Dinner? (possibly an instrumental and vocal version?)

~~ Alessandro Juliani certainly earned a spot on the next BSG soundtrack CD.

* 7. “The Signal” and “Diaspora Oratorio”
from Revelations

~~ Not sure what “The Signal” is, but the Oratorio *absolutely* belongs on the CD.

- M. \”/

Left by Meowlin on January 12th, 2009

Hello Bear (and hello all),

first off, I think it’s awesome that you’re letting us participate in this way. I’m a long-time silent reader of your blog, but for this I just *had* to register. So here we go:

Your list has of course covered all of the best tracks. And I think that “Gaeta’s Lament” should definitely have an instrumental and a vocal version.

Another piece I’d like to hear is the score to the big battle at the beginning of “He that Believeth…”; possibly interluded with the short reprise of “Watchtower”, where Tigh shoots Adama in his vision (projection? delusion?).

And since you already have a track from Razor on your list: I think that the piece that plays during the end credits is wonderful (but maybe that’s rather something for the extra discs you’re planning for a later release?).

Oh, and here’s an idea for the (hopefully) upcoming BlueRay-Set: since there’s quite a bit of space on those BlueRay Discs, how about an additional audiotrack that has just the score on it? That way we could listen to ALL of your score, as it appeared on the show, without it being constantly drowned out by dialog and soundeffects. And I think that this additional audiotrack could be easily done; technically as well as from a budget standpoint.

What do you think about this? And in case you’re in favor, could you pitch that idea to the powers-that-be? Or rather, whom do we have to harass at NBC/Universal to possibly make this happen? ;-)

Also, I’m really excited about the prospect of a BSG concert in Europe! I live in Germany, but no matter where the concert will ultimately take place — I’ll *be* there! :-)

So Say We All,
-Stephan

Left by Stephan on January 12th, 2009

First of all, i would like to say thank you for giving the fan’s an opportunity to suggest tracks for the album. Makes us feel collaborative.

Anywho, from Razor, A personal favourite cue of mine is when the Pegasus is attacked by the Cylons (during Kendra Shaw’s tour). That cue stayed in my head throughout Razor for me.

From Season 4, you’ve pretty much covered all the tracks which i loved (especially the last 3/4, depending if Gaeta’s lament gets an instrumental version aswell as the vocal version, which would be greatly loved by all i assume).

Be assured I’ll be popping back during the 2nd half of the season along with other fan’s proclaiming our favorite cues.

Left by TheOnes on January 12th, 2009

Excellent idea! A poll !! Now I’m going to have to watch the episodes for the content, and then watch them again and pay real close attention to the music. Any excuse to watch multiple times is a good one !!

dave
CFPrez
http://bearmccrearyfans.yuku.com

Left by daveCFPrez on January 12th, 2009

Bear,

I think Kendra Shaw’s theme from Razor cannot be omitted.

It has a haunting quality that I love.

All the other cues are also fantastic !!!

A suggestion:

Perhaps a 2CD set may be the way to go?

This way, it would be possible to release all of the cues in that 90 minutes, plus some unreleased material from prior seasons.

Even if it retails for a higher price, it’ll be a must have !!!

Left by OneBuckFilms on January 12th, 2009

“Farewell Apollo” i know it’s already going to be on the album but please please please use the version that was on tv the song is absolutely beautiful the way it is.

please also enclude the music during adama’s meltdown in revelations

Left by paulm84 on January 12th, 2009

I am so excited about the season 4 soundtrack. I usually listen to alternative rock/pop music but throughout 2008 your music became the most played stuff on my iPod. I play it during dinner parties, I listen to it in the car, I listen to it while walking the streets of Baltimore. I recently compiled my own “best of” collection so I could hear my favorites on one CD for the car. It was impossible and I had to leave off a lot of great tracks. Just to let you know where I’m coming from, here’s what I chose:

1. Starbuck Buck Buck
2. To Kiss or Not to Kiss
3. Battlestar Operatica
4. Wander My Friends
5. Passacaglia
6. The Shape of Things to Come
7. Metamorphosis One (sorry, I know it’s not yours)
8. Martial Law
9. Allegro
10. Colonial Anthem
11. Lords of Kobol
12. Roslin & Adama
13. Prelude to War
14. One Year Later
15. Gentle Execution
16. Refugees Return
17. Violence and Variations
18. The Dance
19. All Along the Watchtower

As for your questions about season 4. I’m really interested in hearing an unedited vocal version of “Gaeta’s Lament”. Would you use a different vocalist? An instrumental version would also be nice. Also, the music played at the end of Revelations when Lee’s threatening to send Tigh out the airlock. That’s some of the most innovative work I’ve heard on this show using percussion and chanting. Of course the music played when they’re celebrating finding Earth is essential too. I just got the DVDs so I’ll need to re-watch them and pay more attention to the music but one thing I don’t feel is essential is another incarnation of “Wander My Friends”. It’s a nice piece but I think you got it right back in season one.

I would be really interested in knowing what tracks you would choose for 1 or 2 disc “best of” collection. Thanks for the great work!

Left by BearFan on January 12th, 2009

hello!

first of all, thank you for asking the fans! that is super awesome of you! :)

i think my one wish would be to have both alessandro juliani’s version of “gaeta’s lament” and the instrumental one as well. i don’t know what season 4.5 holds, musically, so i couldn’t say just yet, but i’m sure you’ll pick what you think fits best. :)

personally, i would love to have a sort of collector’s edition of all the “lost cues” released, perhaps, later. one of the songs i really wish would make it on there would be the lullaby baltar and head!six were singing at the beginning of “taking a break from all your worries”. it’s wonderfully creepy, yet i’d sing it to my child if i had one.

and, slightly off topic, yet i can’t help but ask, what happened to raya yarbrough’s vocal version of “roslin and adama”? i remember hearing it was quite lovely, but it was never officially released.

thank you for the wonderful work, and all the best, annie

Left by exquisiteagony on January 12th, 2009

Absolutely Gaeta’s Lament and the oratorio. Other than that, I’d have to go back and rewatch. (By the way, I meant to ask you back when we were talking about mezzo-sopranos, but is there a recording of your “Collapse of Saint Francis”? I’d love to hear it.)

Left by darcy on January 12th, 2009

Don’t discount a double CD for season 4. There’s plenty of material and plenty of rabid fans (myself included) who will be more then willing to shell out the extra cash. Make the CD(s) that you’d wanna hear because that’s worked for the past 3 seasons.

Left by maxpower011 on January 12th, 2009

I’d love the music from the last ten minutes or so of “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner”.

Left by Hermiod on January 12th, 2009

Wow. I checked out this post an hour ago and it was empty. good job!

“my score in the second half of the season is even better than in the first” Can’t wait to hear it!! I loved the first half, especially Cally’s decent. I get goosebumps whenever I hear it. I am also in support of the vocal and instrumental version of Gaeta’s lament.

On Passacaglia: “But, I still have one episode left to score and, without getting spoileriffic… yes, I think you probably will hear it again” Great news. My favorite song of season one. Why must you tease us so!

Left by Morden on January 12th, 2009

Wow! Thank you for such an extraordinary opportunity to provide you with input!

Okay, aside from those queues that you mentioned, here are some that I think should also be seriously considered from season 4.0:

*Razor: The prologue sequence (with Kendra Shaw handling the razor as we see recaps) was a great queue.
*I think at LEAST one track focusing on Kara’s destiny theme is prudent. You’ve taken that theme and done awsome things with it, both in Ties that Bind (when Starbuck is pouring over nav charts and the like) and Faith (seeing the Baseship “comet”). Maybe even throw in that beautiful, short queue in Six of One where Adama is looking at the figurehead of his model ship (Kara’s origional theme) in the same track.
*Don’t take this the wrong way, but I’d be fine with you cutting out “Husker In Combat” to make room for 4.5 stuff.
*The “final five” theme has also been awsome (in Faith, where Kara says “let’s go, the Demetrius is waiting for us, for example). The best one so far is in Revelations, where it’s actually a happier version of this theme and Lee makes his speech about not having to repeat the cycle – I LOVED that queue. I would vote for a final five theme track.
*I also loved the iteration of the “Adama family theme” at the very beginning of “Revelations,” where Lee is looking at the empty chair. Again, this one is really short, but awsome.
*I would be very upset if the Hub theme, Gaita’s Lament, THE SIGNAL, or Desapora Oratorio were cut, so PLEASE leave those no matter what.

I’ll try to limit my “you should add this queue” to a single suggestion each episode for the new ones, but no promises. :P

Left by jangoisbaddest7 on January 12th, 2009

Actually, the part in “Faith” where Leoben says “god’s plan is about to be revealed,” and they jump….that was another moment of awsome Kara/Leoben themeage. Forgot about that one till just now.

Left by jangoisbaddest7 on January 12th, 2009

Oy, another one I forgot about was in “Six of One,” the scene where Lee and Kara kiss in the brig. That was also an excellent queue. I will stop here. I promise.

Left by jangoisbaddest7 on January 12th, 2009

Blast, I lied. I wish there was an “edit post” option on here.

As far as Gaita’s Lament goes, I’d avise against making two separate tracks for it. I would start with vocal, transition to insturmental for the awsome build-up to “JUMP!”, and then end once again with vocal, just like the episode did.

Left by jangoisbaddest7 on January 12th, 2009

Hi, may your beard grow long and full!
I won’t give any list of songs, but I tell you what I think:

1) Don’t try to turn everything 180° around just to be innovative – BSG has its atmosphere which it needs to keep until the very end.

2) If everything sounds really great and just the way Galactica needs it It is IMHO wrong and you should make a step sideways. I mean, keep that something that makes BSG the way it is as it is, but here and there put in something unexpected, almost controversial (but what makes sense ofc) – then people have to stop for a second, think and make peace with it – that’s what does every piece a bit deeper (for me at least).

3) I see this scene as people of Galactica stand on the ground of Earth watching the sky, and beyond in their thoughts. They see the vast universe, merciless time passing and already understand the prophecies which destined them to end up there. And then, then they’ll understand that none of it matters, that THIS is the time and place for them to end their journey and start to live – I kinda feel that in “Refugees Return” from S3.

Thank you for your work, I love it. Wish you good luck!

Left by demo on January 12th, 2009

Dear exquisiteagony –
In answer to your question:
“…and, slightly off topic, yet i can’t help but ask, what happened to raya yarbrough’s vocal version of “roslin and adama”? i remember hearing it was quite lovely, but it was never officially released.”

It’s sitting on my keyboard, right now, gathering dust. I thought nobody liked it! After I performed it in the first BG concert at The Mint, somebody wrote a mean blog about how they hated it, and I recoiled.

I am pretty sure it will not end up on an album, but if Mr.McCreary thinks it might be appropriate for something at some point… I shall whip it out!
So say we all,
and thanks for your nice words about it!
Raya

Left by ISing4Cylons on January 12th, 2009

Anything and everything from The Hub. I was just in awe of the music in that episode from start to finish and would love to have it on the soundtrack. Also, my personal favourite theme overall from the series is Roslin & Adama so I’d love to see the moments the theme appears on the Season 4 CD.

On a seperate note, this is my first post and I just wanted to say thanks for creating this music. I can’t think of any other CD’s I love with as much passion and you should be obsessively congratulated for both Roslin & Adama and the equally excellent Violence and Variations. Both tracks are so beautiful.

Left by Bexy on January 12th, 2009

First, thank you so much for asking the fans! What a great idea.

I’ve been eagerly awaiting the season 4 soundtrack because it’s just so beautiful. I wouldn’t mind it coming in two parts (4.0 and 4.5). I’m sure it wouldn’t be “watered down.” There are so many wonderful pieces, I’m afraid some would get lost in the shuffle. But you are the genius here, not me. So, I trust your decision.

As long as the “Resurrection Hub” theme is there, which I see it is, I will be a happy camper! I fell in love with that piece of music the second it started playing. It really is a stunning piece of music from start to finish. I’ve been waiting to get my hands on it ever since it aired. So, you know…it’s been a LONG time.

Also, an instrumental version AND a vocal version on “Gaeta’s Lament” would be perfection, or one track that has a transition of one to the other or something would also be wonderful. (Just as long as we get to hear each version and not just one OR the other.)

Oh, dear. I’ll have to re-watch 4.0 to see what else caught my ear. What a tragedy this will be.
I’ll write back after with anything else I find.

Thanks again. You rock!

Left by 37cylons on January 12th, 2009

Oh, and I second an earlier posters comment about the music played when they find Earth. Beautiful piece of music.

Left by Bexy on January 12th, 2009

Thank you for asking us fans Mr. McCreary! The “Diaspora Oratorio” is right on top of the list of tracks I want to hear on the album, because it brought tears to my eyes with its joy and its majestic feel. I have no clue what you mean with “The Signal” though.”Farewell Apollo” is also a very good idea. There has been a version of “Wander my Friends” on each album and it seems only fair that another version is included on the last BSG album. It is after all THE Adama theme. I also wouldn’t mind hearing the original theme for Husker. “Gaeta’s Lament” is a MUST. Alessandro Juliani had a wonderful singing voice and I crossed my fingers back then, that this song would be on the album. I agree with the others BTW. I think it would be great to have an instrumental and a vocal version. Also, is there something like a fourth movement for that “BSG Symphony”?

1st movement: Passacaglia
2nd movement: Allegro
3rd movement: Violence And Variations
4th movement: ???

That would be great.

Thank you very much again for asking us fans, Bear!

Left by huntress1013 on January 12th, 2009

Thanks for letting us get our two cents in Bear. I have to say that the BSG soundtracks are my working music (I’m a graphic artist) and they make things go by much faster.

I haven’t seen mention of the new Roslin And Adama arrangement at the end of The Hub. I think I remember you mentioned in one of your posts that there might be an appearance by it with its new arrangement. I love the quiet simplicity of this version. And by the way…the original version is going to be played at my wedding, so thanks for that!

Left by katamaran on January 12th, 2009

Ack, I’m going to be naff at this, cause I love it all. If pushed though, I would be very happy to see 1, 3, 5, 6 and 7 in your list make the final cut.

Left by JeremyBrettFan on January 12th, 2009

Bear,

You did a very clever and interesting thing with Six of One, where the cue went halfway through the scene, then reversed itself !!!

I remember you even showed the waveform.

THAT definately deserves a cue.

Left by OneBuckFilms on January 12th, 2009

ISing4Cylons,

You got a bad Blog entry on THAT?

No way.

I guess some people have no taste ;-)

Left by OneBuckFilms on January 12th, 2009

Definitely, I’d love “The Resurrection Hub” and “Diaspora Oratorio.” And the Roslin/Adama music from the Hub.

ISing4Cylons, we’d love to hear that version!

Left by Maeghan on January 12th, 2009

The CD -absolutely- needs some version of the Kendra Shaw theme from “Razor”. Pretty please with a cherry on top. It’s very memorable and it runs throughout the movie. It’s the musical identity of the entire thing for me, and would be a better choice than “Husker in Combat” if something needs to be chosen. We already have a version of that on the S2 CD.

I second Kara’s destiny theme. I agree that some kind of medley would be nice. There is some good stuff throughout the episodes. Like “The Ties That Binds” at around 10:00.

And the Lee/Kara goodbye in “Six of One” please.

Adama/Roslin from “The Hub” is also great. Slow, relatively quiet and understated.

For the “extra albums” I really, really want the original version of “Lords of Kobol” as heard in the episode. The electrical guitars work for the other Pegasus tracks, but here it completely takes away the lyrical, haunting quality of the track.

Left by Steve on January 12th, 2009

I have to agree, the palindromic cue from Six of One definitely deserves a place on the CD. While maybe not for its entertaining purpose, but it’s such a specially written piece of music that it would be a shame to ignore it.

Oh, and let’s not put too much good stuff on the series 4 cd, because you want to have some leftovers for the 5th disc! ;p

Left by Rian on January 12th, 2009

Now that I think about it, Cally’s theme is another one I wouldn’t mind you cutting. If the score to the second half of season 4 is half as awsome as I think it will be, I’m sure there will be plenty of material that you can squeeze in there in its stead (I assume input on what to cut is more helpful than us giving you MORE to consider xD).

I still say that the score to the “it doesn’t have to happen again” scene in Revelations should at least be given some thought, or the final five theme in general. Also, obviously, Kara’s destiny theme.

I second the above. Kendra Shaw theme > Husker In Combat.

You rock, Bear. I’m sure you’ll make us all very happy! :)

Left by jangoisbaddest7 on January 12th, 2009

I know it’s a bit odd, but I feel pretty strongly that Shaw’s theme and the attack on the shipyard from “Razor” shouldn’t be on the soundtrack, because there’s already a clean copy available over the closing credits of Razor. I know getting the music off the DVD isn’t the sort of thing most people will be willing to do, but it still seems to me like a waste to put something on the CD that’s already more or less out there.

Left by David Gian-Cursio on January 12th, 2009

Wow, as a huge BSG fan who just didn’t “get” Razor I feel completely indifferent to the musical cues. There is not a single BSG character I care less about than Kendra Shaw regardless of her theme and therefore I would be fine with it being left off of the season 4 soundtrack.

That being said, however, I am going to have to go check out that theme now!

Left by BearFan on January 12th, 2009

Whatever process has been used up to this point, I’d stick with that. There have been exponential jumps forward with each of the seasons soundtracks, with stunning results. Asking for input is pretty cool, but as the saying goes, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

Left by Brian on January 12th, 2009

You listed a bunch of good ones, Bear. It’s exciting to get a pseudo-preview of this soundtrack before the release, so… I know it’s been said, but that’s an awesome, awesome, thing, sir.

I love all the tracks you listed, (in particular Husker in Combat, The Hub (which you just *need*), The Signal, and Diaspora Oratorio) but I would LOVE to hear the reversed cue (The one like Retrograde canons) from Six of One because it just sounds so different from everything else.

The only one I can think of that everyone else mentioned was the Mutiny scene and/or the season opener for “He That Believeth” with the awesome space battles. Those action cues were pretty sweet, and they tend to just get me revved for life when I hear them. (I’d say they’re my favorite, but I’m way in love with the slower stuff too.)

Can’t wait to see what you do for the rest of season four. I look forward to it blowing my mind.

Left by GungaDin on January 12th, 2009

It would be great to get the second appearance of the “Roslin and Adama” B theme in the series at the end of “The Ressurection Hub” episode.

Maybe you can assemble it as a suite with new Roslin and adama b theme material from the last 11 episodes (if you use it there, and i hope you do as it is one of your best melodies!!!)

Did you mean with “Farewell Apollo” only the great Adama theme segment or also the Kara and Lee farewell scene?
I hope that you can put both on the cd, it would make a great track with the big collection of themes you used there (Lee’s- , Kara’s-, Kara and Lee’s Love- and then the big statement of the Adama theme)

Left by Fedragal on January 12th, 2009

Wow, you can tell a lot of people are excited about this release!
The top 3 that I’d like to see are

1)”Gaeta’s Lament” from Guess Whats Coming to Dinner Intrumental and vocal as 2 separate tracks.
I absolutely love the excerpt from the “pre-jump prep” from Demetrius when the camera rolls over Gaeta’s leg as he’s lying in bed and then at the end when Sharon is chasing Hera and Roslin, Baltar, etc. are walking into the hybrid room. I cant count how many times I’ve played those parts of the episode over just to hear the music.

2)”The Resurrection Hub” from The Hub
From beginning to end, this piece was amazing.

3)”The Signal” and “Diaspora Oratorio”
from Revelations
Of course these have to be on there. By far some of the best work I’ve ever heard.

These are just my top three. Obviously I’d love to have every last minute. I am looking more forward to the music of 4.5 than I am the actual show/story now.

Left by MattH on January 12th, 2009

It’s already been mentioned once or twice in comments above, but I absolutely love the re-harmonized “Final Four” theme played during the forming of the alliance in Revelations. I literally didn’t even think it was the same song as its darker counterpart until I listened to them both back to back. I can’t even begin to count the number of times I’ve listed to Apollo give his speech of joining forces just so I could hear that tune in the background.

The newer “Roslin and Adama” tune would be a close second choice of mine as well. The older version of it is by far one of the most played songs in my iTunes library.

Left by Goob on January 12th, 2009

Bear,

I know you put it in the list, but The Hub was honestly my favorite music of the season, and I would buy the album if it only contained that.

Please let Alessandro’s voice grace this plastic disc, I was amazed and impressed and maybe even a little moved, it is a must.

I know these were both on your list but I wanted to put in my unwavering support for them.

…and to beg for a preview of them on your main site : )

Left by Konrad on January 12th, 2009

I still advocate a single track for Gaita’s Lament, one in which voice and instrument take turns with the melody. We haven’t even heard season 4.5 stuff yet, and a track like this would easily “say what it needs to say” (as in, cover both the great singing and the build-up to the end of “Guess What’s Coming” – which was, of course, brilliant). More room for other, different pieces that way. Obviously, though, it’s only my opinion.

I do agree about the Kendra Shaw theme, actually. Forgot about the credits. Good call in disagreeing with that.

Again, thank you, Bear, for this opportunity. I also apologize if I seem bossy. It is not meant to be so. I am just excited about the album, and that you are actually (potentially) allowing us to influence this exceptional product!

Left by jangoisbaddest7 on January 12th, 2009

Hi Bear,

Wow, I don’t envy you the job of having to whittle down all that wonderful music to 80 minutes.
-Please, please include both the instrumental version of “Gaeta’s Lament” from the end of “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner” and a version with Alessandro Juliani. Those are two of my very favorite music moments in a very strong season!

-”Resurrection Hub,” “Diaspora Oratorio,” and “The Signal” are all “must-have’s,” too (I’ve been meaning to ask, but what is it about “Gaeta’s Lament” and “Resurrection Hub” that makes it sound like they’re…related? I don’t have much of a technical musical vocabulary, so the best way I can describe it is it sounded like those two pieces were siblings.)

-I’d also love to hear the “Starbuck’s Destiny” theme from one of the moments where the light bulb finally comes on in Kara’s head and the visions become clearer–either the cue from “Faith” or the one from “The Ties That Bind” where she gets that moment of clarity.

-I’d add the Roslin/Adama theme from “The Hub,” but I have a sneaking suspicion that theme might come up again in S4.5, so I’ll hold off on that one until I hear the rest of the season.

Left by Kappa on January 12th, 2009

Great idea. Good luck though with sorting all these reactions out. 57 responses in just one day! :O

Although I can’t remember a lot of the music of season 4.0 (having seen it only once) I absolutely concur with your list. Those are the ones I remember best. (with the Diaspora Oratorio as the most prominent) Only thing I’d like to add at this point is the music that is being played when Adama breaks down and Tigh is being led to the airlock in “Revelations”. On the other hand, you already have two cues from that episode, so maybe my suggestion is better reserved for a later cd.
I’ll let you know if I hear anything that really stands out in season 4.5. (which is bound to happen, I am sure)

Left by Thomas on January 12th, 2009

I was just going back and skimming through past episodes of 4.0 and realized that I had forgotten what an awesome score “The Ties that Bind” had. I would also like to see an arrangement from that make it to the release.

Left by MattH on January 12th, 2009

Oh, also, ISing4Cylons,

Even if it sucks, I know that I’m DYING to hear that song. I’ve gone looking for it and I can’t find it anywhere. Roslin and Adama (brilliant song) plus a vocal track (brilliance) plus Raya? I think I just had a mindgasm…

Left by GungaDin on January 12th, 2009

Hello to all of my fellow BSG music fans, This is Marc of Westminster, Md..hello Bearfan..you listen to the BSG tunes while walking down the streets of Baltimore ? wow..brave man, very brave..watch out for the traffic..lol.

Bear McCreary, thanks for the email the other day about all of this. I checked the blog last night and this wasn’t on..less than 24 hours later and you have all of these responses..AWESOME. I think it’s great that an artist would do this. I do have to point out that I haven’t had the chance to get the season 4 dvd yet but I know I can watch some of them online. I do like the music from the scene where Starbuck is leaving her Viper that has that “signal” and she’s racing through the ship trying to get to Lee who is about to flush Tigh from the airlock..awesome music there

I wonder if alot of people get caught up in the story of BSG like I do. I see the ships(battlestars)and the shipyards as works of art..engineering marvels. So for me, the Razor theme..when the shipyards are under attack, ships are being destroyed, people are dying..it’s very very emotional for me..DEEPLY emotional, and the song for that only amplifies it. I wonder if I would be the first to say that I could almost feel the anguish, the devastation, the horror..with the music playing.

For the possible bonus CD, I would have to suggest some of the following from previous seasons.

Season 2, Episode : Home Part 2
CH 3/5 0:6:54
Adama is choking Lt Valerie on Kobol and telling her to Die. It’s a short section of music..maybe part of another scene.

Same disk, Same Episode
CH 3/5 13:00
Sharon hugs Helo, talks about taking matters into her own hand.

Season 3 Disc 6
Episode : Crossroads Part 2
CH 3/5 (this is what is displayed on my dvd player..hope it matches up) 0:06:21
Roslin & Adama talking in CIC, Bill says “We have to look to the future”

music before ” Heed The Call ” Starts on disc 6 CH 4/5

a combined version of ” Heed The Call ” and ” Watchtower “..as it is on DVD..

I’ll have to add more later on as I watch and listen to more of season 4

MANY thanks to those who have responded and lets not forget to thank Bear McCreary and his ENTIRE staff for putting forth so much effort for all of these awesome songs. I don’t know about the rest of you but it’s hard to find much of anything else to listen to other than this music. Thanks to those of you who have read the blog and just had to sign up in order to respond to this post.

thank you all, thank you Bear McCreary & your staff..this music has had such a profound impact on my life..it’s AMAZING !!

Marc
Westminster, Maryland
USA

Left by Harrison5 on January 12th, 2009

I’ve read the other comments…so here’s my two cents:

• Please don’t give us just one CD for Season 4: give us TWO! Disc 1 is 4.0 and Disc 2 is 4.5! There is good reason why we want to hear it ALL.
• Remember that “stretched” Razor End Title I sent you a while back? That, plus Gaeta’s Lament, The Hub, and Diaspora Oratorio, and I’ll be a happy camper.

As for the rest, I’ll definitely be listening as 4.5 unfolds. SO SAY WE ALL!

Left by Macker on January 12th, 2009

I am impressed and grateful that you have given your fans the opportunity to comment on our picks for the season 4 soundtrack. Like many others, I am in the middle of re-watching season 4 and if I hear any melodies that I must have on cd, I will continue to post them. I do, however, have a few picks that have always stood out in my mind since the season aired.

Aside from the ones you have already wisely chosen, these are my favorite cues:

The Ties that Bind
As has been mentioned already, the Kara’s Destiny theme that is played while she pours over her charts is beautiful. I know the theme is used a lot in the first half of the season, but I feel that this cue gave you an opportunity to actually develop and mature the theme instead of simply recapitulating it.

Sine Qua Non
It would be nice to get a release of Lampkin’s theme, although I do remember you mentioning that there may be another chance for us to hear it later in the season and maybe that is the version you would like to use ; )

Revelations
I love the Final Four Theme that you wrote for this episode when the alliance is formed. This is such a pivotal moment in the season and it is a wonderful arrangement of the theme. You said yourself that it was representative of the conclusion to the story arc of the final four cylons having to live in secrecy.

Razor
I would love for Kendra Shaw’s theme to appear on the CD as I feel it is a representation of the essence of the mini-series (considering it mainly revolves around her and her story)

I am incredibly anxious to hear what you have in store for us in this final half of the season. Aside from having beautiful music, soundtracks have always been about connecting pure emotion to a story. These final episodes promise to have some hard-hitting, heart and gut wrenching moments and I know that the music will match.

So Say We All

Left by Brandon on January 12th, 2009

in response to GungaDin:

“Even if it sucks, I know that I’m DYING to hear that song.”

LOL, I appreciate the vote of confidence!

“I’ve gone looking for it and I can’t find it anywhere. Roslin and Adama (brilliant song) plus a vocal track (brilliance) plus Raya? I think I just had a mindgasm…”

“mindgasm” I like that. Much appreciated. FYI The reason you cant find a recording is because there isn’t one!….or..I don’t think there is…Bear?

Left by ISing4Cylons on January 12th, 2009

oh Bear,
And if I perform Baltar’s Cult sometime, can I get back-up chicks?

Left by ISing4Cylons on January 12th, 2009

Hi bear,

I loved each music you made on BSG, so I really don’t know what to choose,I learned music and piano a long time ago and you became my favorite composer… It’s true that if we could have the singing version of “Roslin & Adama” by Raya Yarbrough…like a bonus on the cd, it would be Amazing ;) (and you’ll be adored by all the A/R shippers, Mary McDonnell’s fans and Eddie’s Fans..so..do you want to be the God’s shippers ? *G*)

Namaste.

Left by kelinea on January 13th, 2009

“Oh, and here’s an idea for the (hopefully) upcoming BlueRay-Set: since there’s quite a bit of space on those BlueRay Discs, how about an additional audiotrack that has just the score on it? That way we could listen to ALL of your score, as it appeared on the show, without it being constantly drowned out by dialog and soundeffects.”

That’d be worth buying a Blu-Ray player for…

- M. \”/

Left by Meowlin on January 13th, 2009

“Meowlin… “The Signal” is the cue from “Revelations” when Kara is sprinting through the halls and the choir is chanting a Samoan war chant. Possibly my favorite action cue yet.”

Then, IMAO, it’s in.

- M. \”/

Left by Meowlin on January 13th, 2009

“Diaspora Oratorio”

Include it and I am a guaranteed customer.

Left by DS9Sisko on January 13th, 2009

Definedly that song where Lee is “going to flush” the four Cylons from the airlock, and Starbuck is running to tell him “that the viper she rided to Earth, is receiving a Colonial signal” (Sorry my English, not my native language.) That song is something Differend…

And it would be nice to have more of that Middle East kind of music, like “Heading the call”. Those are quite unique sounding music combinations.

THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME! This is THE song, which changed my mind about soundtracks and Classical music. When heard this first time, that was my spark to Classical music! I bought a Midi-keyboard and Orchestral Sample Libary. But back to business. I think there should be littlebit of Classical/Symphonic music with such intense and beauty like The Shape Of Things To Come, it is one of the most beautiful songs i ever heard and i want more!

Left by Jussi.K on January 13th, 2009

Please please add the Roslin and Adama Theme from the last scene of 4×11 The Hub. I love it!

Left by Aszanthi on January 13th, 2009

Like many here the one song featured so far this season that I absolutely want is Diaspora Oratorio. I will definitely make sure to stop by here every time I hear a album worthy song in the rest of the season. I hope like the person above me that there is another The Shape of Things to Come type piece featured as the strings pieces are absolutely my favorite. On a side note in the extra CDs released later you must include the original version of A promise to Return. I was so disappointed when I heard the album version. Don’t get me wrong it’s still amazing but I waited about ten months from when the song first played in August of 2005 until the 2nd Season soundtrack came out in June 2006 (I believe it was June… maybe May). That was the one song I was looking forward to hearing and I still prefer the original version. I have a low quality recording of it on my computer but it isn’t exactly the best experience since there are words, the music is quiet, and the quality isn’t exactly amazing. If this gets done I’d be set and couldn’t be happier! Anyway thanks and good job with the work!

-Myles

Left by BSGSciFi on January 13th, 2009

You can stop clogging up the comments with listings for “Relevations”. Those tracks will definitely be in. But there’s lots of other good – and less obvious – music to pick from. :)

Left by Steve on January 13th, 2009

In addition to what you’ve got (please cut none of it!), it really needs to include the main theme from Razor.

Left by Seth on January 13th, 2009

I would love to hear the track that was played during the Cylon attack on the shipyards in Razor….PLEASE!? IonClash gotta have it!

Left by IonClash on January 13th, 2009

Please include the theme from Razor, the battle scene from The Hub and Gaius’ theme from He That Believeth In Me!! And thank you so much for all you do!!

Left by patday79 on January 13th, 2009

I like the selections you have but I do have a couple of other comments:
1) Needs music from scene in “Razor” when shipyard is destroyed and pegasus jumps
2) Also in “Razor”, the music from when the civillian fleet is found (drums), boarded, and civillians are killed/ Kendra is walking back. I LOVE IT!
3) From “He That Believeth in Me”, last few minutes of the episode when Starbuck attacks the marines and goes for the president
4) Definetly use Cally’s theme from “The Ties that Bind”
5) ABSOLUTELY make two versions of Gaeta’s Lament, the instrumental is probably my favorite of the entire season

Left by endsea on January 13th, 2009

Hello Bear,

unfortunately, I am not ready yet to give my list of preferred music, but until then I’d like to say, I totally adore you for just letting us DISCUSS this with you!! I mean, how cool are you? Seriously! You are the brilliant composer of the freaking best show in the whole world and though you outrank yourself frequently with every new composition, you are still as humble as to ask for our opinion! YOU ROCK, MAN! And that is what makes you truly unique and a genius in your field. Thanks for letting us being a part in this. Truly appreciated.

I am not worthy. ;)
Cheers
Dee

Left by BonaTaylor on January 13th, 2009

Hello Bear,

Thanks for giving us this opportunity! One piece that really stodd out for me this season- and I wanna say Ive never heard it before so Im thinking you first wrote it for this scene perhaps?– anyway it’s in Guess What’s Coming to Dinner.. the scene with Natalie being interrogated by Adama, Roslin, et al at the begininning of the episode..it starts just about when Natalie starts discussing “the boxing facility resides within the cylon resurrection hub… and finishes right after she offers “we’ll take you to the hub if you help us unbox D’anna..” (and then of course there’s a snippet of the Final Five (or Final Four?) theme..) but I absolutely LOVE whatever piece/cue/theme whatever that is while she’s talking very mysterious and exotic and epic.. creating an Indiana Jones type-feel to the scene or something.. anyway think you know which piece I mean dunno if anyone else has suggested it..

My other choices would absolutely be the FULL INSTRUMENTAL VERSION OF GAETA’S LAMENT

The variation of Starbuck’s theme? I think it is at the end of “Believeth” when starbuck goes to say hi to Roslin with a gun..

Oh and the variation of I forgot which theme (the Eye of Jupiter theme maybe?) that plays at the beginning of “Sine Qua Non” when scenes of Natalie dying and projects the forest are intercut with Zarek announcing he is President

oh and simply must include that version of Starbuck’s theme when she sees her “comet” vision realized in “Faith”

Anyway, Id love to hear these and more!

Left by Leif573 on January 13th, 2009

Gaeta needs to have a vocal version of his lament on there, Allasandro made me cry, it was that moving.

Diaspora oratorio is a must. Kara’s Destiny theme on the ties that bind.

Baltar’s cult.. Oh just put them all on!!!

Left by Rogueguitar13 on January 13th, 2009

Hello again everyone..I have something else to add. It seems like the ” Razor ” theme is very popular..it is quite awesome. The scene where the shipyard is being destroyed is the same as in the ending credits of ” Razor “..at least I think. And since alot of you like the ” Kendra Shaw ” theme..which I think is identical or very very similar, why not have them both..back to back. There is an instrumental version of the song on the Razor DVD. It’s in the extra sections..maybe even deleted scenes. It shows Adama actually talking with Dorian ( I think that is his name) it’s a flash back scene and shows Dorian and Adama talking in front of an older cylon before the decommisioning ceremony begins. The credits right after that scene have this version of the ” Kendra Shaw ” theme / ” Razor ” theme. I added them both up (time wise ) and then come out to about 5 mins and 18 seconds.

SO SAY WE ALL

Left by Harrison5 on January 13th, 2009

I wake up to Battlestar Sonatica EVERY morning. Be sure to include a piano piece.

To me, some of the best pieces of music occur at the end of each episode.

Left by Fenlyn_USAF on January 14th, 2009

I’d like to echo cory and put my request in for a 24-bit/96kHz DVD-Audio or some Blu-Ray lossless release of _way more music_! I appreciate the single disc idea, but why not also put out a limited run of high-resolution, longer form recordings ala Mr. Shore and his LotR Complete Recordings sets. Please!

Left by tomrammer on January 14th, 2009

Like many others responding to your generous request for input, I exercise every morning to Season 1 and listen to Season 3 during the endless hours I carpool my children around. In between times, your transendent music is usually running through my head. Your work truly completes the unprecedented artistic experience that is this show.

The pieces I love the most from Season 4 so far are the destruction of the Hub (I thought I heard on a commentary that you did one in the style of Ennio Morricone — is this the one? it’s such an amazing, unexpected complement to the most-stunning-yet battle scenes!), and the arrival at Earth. My favorite of all is the Laura-Adama theme (that music so perfectly captures the emotions involved in this, my favorite arc of the show), closely followed by the Adama-Lee theme (I especially love the Gaelic vocals version from Season 1). The piano theme for the basestar scenes is also very beautiful (wish I could get sheet music). Your “documentary” with James Callis was fantastic — his theme song has also been sporadically recurring to me since I watched it! (Alas, not a good track for a child-carpool-CD.)

I wish there were a way to give you a standing ovation all the way from Boston — if you ever do a concert out here (please!!!), I’m there! Take care.

Left by flowwrnglr on January 14th, 2009

I don’t really have anything too different to contribute here other than to say that the must haves for me are “Husker in Combat”, “Diaspora Oratorio”, and the palindromic song from Six of One.

On an unrelated note: I remember you saying a while back that you had special plans on releasing the version of All Along the Watchtower as it aired, any more info on that?

Left by Koloth on January 14th, 2009

Wow, this was an amazing post, Bear . . . thank you for letting us weigh in on your creative process. I don’t envy the editing choices you’ll have to make! :-) My first photography book came out two months ago, and the final cuts were definitely the most painful.

Personally, I would snap up a 2-CD set in a heartbeat. Season 3 and the ‘Dark Knight’ score were easily my most-played CDs of 2008 . . . I was just listening to season 3 this morning!

Your short list is perfect. As for the comments above, I’d also love to hear:

- Both the vocal and instrumental versions of “Gaeta’s Lament.” (it’s so haunting & beautiful)
- The shipyard attack from “Razor.”
- The opening battle to “He That Believeth in Me.”

God, the countdown to Friday is bad enough without hearing what else you have in store for us! I’m only a few episodes into the 4.0 DVD set and am shocked at how many great cues I’d forgotten. Of course the first thing I did was pop in disc 4 and watch the “Music of BSG” film — your scenes with James Callis were worth the price of the entire DVD set. (EJO and Hogan were a scream, too).

Thanks for asking our opinions, and for all the incredible music you’ve given us.

Left by El4short on January 14th, 2009

I’ll truly be happy with anything that you decide on, but I would really love to hear a version of Gaeta’s Lament, preferably with Alessandro singing … amazing stuff!

I will be listening closely to the Season 4.5 episodes as they air, and I know I won’t be disappointed.

Thanks so much for all of your passion, creativity, imagination and hard work. The show wouldn’t be the same without it.

So say we all …

Left by Leah Andres on January 14th, 2009

What’s so great about the battle in HTBIM? It’s mostly just drums and some “All Along the Watchtower” cues. It serves its purpose, but isn’t really that memorable. If there is space, yes, but given the limited disc space there are far more interesting pieces.

Better to have some more music from “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner?” for example. Or something with Cally’s theme from “The Ties That Bind” (though that’s already on Bear’s list). And as already mentioned the Lee/Kara farewell in “Six of One” and the Adama/Roslin theme from “The Hub”.

Left by Steve on January 14th, 2009

Thanks for asking our opinions! I really hope you don’t leave the battle in HTBIM out of CD, though perhaps it isn’t the most original or musically significant piece, i find that i enjoy the action cues more then anything else. I don’t think it would be a BSG CD if we didn’t have one track of good ol rocking taikos. Enough cool battle themes have been left out of previous releases (I’m looking at you, “The Captain’s Hand/Hero”)If not in the season 4 album because of lack of space, I think it’s at least a top contender for a CD after that.

Certainly I want to have “The Signal” on the CD, “The Hub”, “Gaetas Lament(The part that played as sharon met Hera in the hallway and shot six), and of course, the best piece of music you’ve ever written, disapora oratorio.

However, I do want to add my support for perhaps a 2CD season 4 set, and I certainly hope you add some extras once you are done with that because SO much great music has already been forced out of the previous releases. Season 4 is just so filled with wonderful musical moments, it would be a real tragedy if a lot of it never got its proper place.

And if you ever feel inclined to do a Concert in Dallas, or Austin for that matter, I’ll be there in a heartbeat.

Left by RubberDuckeh on January 14th, 2009

ISing4Cylons: “And if I perform Baltar’s Cult sometime, can I get back-up chicks?”

You get a big “SO SAY WE ALL!!!” on that…

- M. \”/

Left by Meowlin on January 14th, 2009

1. The version of Baltar’s theme we hear when he’s first taken to his harem at the beginning of “He That Believeth.”

2. The action cue from the beginning of “HtBiM.” I have to disagree with Steve on this one a lot. “Storming New Caprica” from S3 is also mostly “just drums” and it’s one of the best tracks from any of the soundtracks.

3. The part of the Final Five theme used in “Revelations” when Lee talks to the Cylons and they agree to go to Earth together.

4. The music from “Faith” when Kara sees the comet. Basically any additions of the “Kara’s destiny” theme can’t hurt in my book since we hear so many interesting variations of it.

5. The Kara and Lee theme from their scene together in “Six of One.”

6. I wish I could figure out what scene it’s from and be more specific, but I really like the action cue that’s used on the “Razor” DVD menu.

Left by CatsOnMars on January 14th, 2009

This rules! It goes without saying I’m a huge fan of your work – all of the BSG music has a permanent home in my playlist at work.

When I first started watching season 4 I was blown away by the choral arrangement of Baltar’s theme – to me it’s one of those rare songs I could listen to on repeat for the rest of my life and never grow tired of it. It really wouldn’t be a true season 4 soundtrack without this song. If it were entirely up to me, I would put an extended version of the song on the soundtrack (or make an extended version available to download for those who aren’t quite as fanatic about that particular song).

I also really like the short string piece that’s played during Adama’s breakdown in “Revelations” (about 20 minutes into the episode).

And, finally, I just wanted to add that your documentary on the 4.0 dvd is f-ing hilarious. The part with you and James on the piano is priceless.

Thanks and keep up the great work!

Left by ZeaL on January 14th, 2009

We nag because we love you and your score so much. And if as you say, the second half is much better than the first, it will undoubtedly make it harder and harder to decide what to keep and what to remove, esp if you’ll want to keep most of the 4.5’s cues in favor of the 4.0.

Regardless, no matter what you chose to do, most of us will be buying whatever you release this fall (hopefully that’s the time frame)

Left by vicmackey187 on January 14th, 2009

Sorry for the annoying gushing you’re about to recieve but it must be said. :P Your music is beautiful and essential to how fantastic BSG really is. I’ve just recently caught up on the series and have been constantly and pleasantly surprised just consistent and versataille your music is.

Keep up the amazing job, CANNOT wait for these final ten episodes.

Oh and a 2 disc album would be awesome. And PLEASE include the Hub rendition of Roslin and Adama’s theme. :)

Left by Creid on January 14th, 2009

So after 96 comments, this is the preliminary list of potential cues for the Season 4 Soundtrack?
1, Husker in Combat from “Razor”
2, Attack on Scorpion Shipyards from “Razor”
3, Kendra’s Theme from “Razor”
4, HtBiM Nebula Battle from
“He that Believeth in Me”
5, Baltar’s Cult from “He that Believeth in Me”
6, Apollo/Kara Goodbye Scene from “Six of One”
7, Farewell Apollo from “Six of One”
8, The Ties that Bind (Cally’s Theme) from
“The Ties that Bind”
9, Kara’s Fate/Theme from the Demetrius Storyline
(Eps. 4×03 – 4×06)
10, Gaeta’s Lament (Instrumental + Vocal Version)
from “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner”
11, Romo Lampkin’s Theme from “Sine Qua Non”
12, Adama/Roslin Love Confession Scene from
“Sine Qua Non”
13, The Resurrection Hub from “The Hub”
14, The Signal from “Revelations”
15, Diaspora Oratorio from “Revelations”
16, Watchtower Four Theme overall from Season 4.0
You guys might also want to check out “Ceremony” by Martin Tillman, which can be found on the CD “Eastern Twin”. This song was used for the “Faces” promos for season 4.0.

Left by Tom_19 on January 15th, 2009

you have a recording of my tune? I mean..your tune, as fracked-with by me?…really? where? In a safe? In vancouver? In James Callis’ Beard? in Paul Cartwright’s violin case? in Bartek’s sock drawer?in Brendan’s beard? in an empty bottle of ambrosia? In carbonite? In Ron Moore’s outhouse? In Shirley Manson’s sock drawer? at a Rest Stop off the old highway? In your dylithium crystal chamber? In that closet in your office under the stack of old Victoria’s Secrets with Trisha Helfer in them?……In your beard?

of course I’m totally kidding about the Victoria’s mags.
…Bear?….am I fired?

Left by ISing4Cylons on January 15th, 2009

I loved the theme during the attack on the Scorpion Shipyard. An extended, unedited version would be a must-have on the album.

Left by jase1987 on January 15th, 2009

Hi Bear,

A double album would be really fantastic ! *crossing fingers* :)

Left by kelinea on January 15th, 2009

@Bear McCreary

Re: “Thanks for the harsh criticism. :) Just kidding. I actually tend to agree with you. There’s nothing in that battle cue that really makes it sing.”

I didn’t say it was bad, but you got what I meant :)
There are indeed other drum dominated cues that are great to listen to, but this isn’t one that stands well on its own. IMO it really needs the visuals to work, and in that it’s more similar to some of the tracks on the S1 soundtrack. It’s nice on TV, but not so much as a standalone piece. For example there are actually some relatively long stretches where there is little to no music. It’s not just relentless drumming for 5 minutes, though some kind of remix could fix that.

And given that a good chunk of the album can be filled with the first half of the season alone, a double album really sounds great :)
Maybe then there is also some room such action music.

Left by SteveWork on January 15th, 2009

A double album in my humble opinion is a logical step. There has been such a long hiatus between seasons 4.0 & 4.5 that they could just as well be called seasons 4 & 5. The soundtrack should therefore be a 2-discer as well.

Left by Comicbookguy339 on January 15th, 2009

Hi Bear,
yes we all want a double album! ;) *duck and run*
So say we all,
Sandra, Switzerland

Left by Sandra on January 15th, 2009

I’d personally pay to hear the entire soundtrack of Razor… or at least the key themes. A lot of compelling work on there – at least, I’d greatly appreciate hearing the title theme on the next BSG soundtrack CD. Keep up the great work!

Left by jchap on January 15th, 2009

I can’t wait to buy the 4th of your BSG compilations. Most of my requests have been covered but I would put in a special plea for Cain and Shaw’s themes from Razor. The music playing after Cain’s broadcast to the ship, as she is consoling crew members, is haunting and conveys her deeply conflicted emotions. It genuinely helps to illuminate her character and lifts her from being a rather one-dimensional tyrant.

As for a double album – yes please but why not a DVD, perhaps with footage of one of your concerts? And if you are coming to Europe, please give us plenty of notice.

Thanks so much for the truly elevating soundtracks that have become such a joyous part of my life.

Left by mark1eyeball on January 15th, 2009

I definitely want to see the main theme or Kendra’s theme (not sure which one it is) from Razor. Also, the opening action piece from He That Believeth in Me is a must have. Otherwise, your list is perfect. I would pay the full price of an album just for the tracks you have listed. I can’t wait for the Season Four OST.

Left by deltavoyage on January 15th, 2009

Hi Bear….I know I’m coming in (it seems) late to the game LOL….

But….as others have so aptly pointed out….most DEFINITELY either the instrumental or vocal versions of Gaeta’s Lament should be included…..

All of your selections identified initially are AMAZING choices, especially “The Signal”..every time I watch Starbuck running through the passageway and I hear the choir chanting all I keep telling myself is I pray Bear puts that on the CD….and I’m a sucker for those military moments like when Lee departs his friends for the last time in “Farewell Apollo”….so that is a definite include….

But I would also love to see Kendra Shaw’s theme from Razor, count me among those who would love to see that theme…and also may even some of the battle themes heard during the 1st Cylon war, call me sentimental, I know, we can still hear Stu’s themes during those cues, but you integrate them so well….

I’ll be watching the upcoming episodes, and I want to be on the lookout especially for some good Sharon cues….I have ALWAYS loved her theme, and I am hoping beyond hope that there is some resolution/or scene that requires some cue that demands inclusion on a season 4 CD of a Sharon/Helo theme….I can’t think of one right now to date….

Pete

Left by fanningp on January 15th, 2009

Fenlyn_USAF
“I wake up to Battlestar Sonatica EVERY morning.”

Too funny. I have an alarm clock that lets me wake up to a CD. Starts off with the volume at 0 and works its way up to a volume that will wake me up.

So every morning I wake up to

Battlestar Galactica: Season 3
“Under the Wing”

Which I think is just a beautiful piece of music along with the fact that when you watch it with the episode is (like most of Bear’s work) so very emotional.

Hate to say it Bear, but with your “opening this can of soundtrack worms” I’m thinking something like Kiss’ Double Platinum !!!!!!

Tom_19 thanks for the recap !!

dave
CFPrez
http://bearmccrearyfans.yuku.com

Left by daveCFPrez on January 15th, 2009

You’re welcome daveCFPrez :)

Left by Tom_19 on January 15th, 2009

Hi, Bear!

I’m going to add to the chorus of those wanting a double album. Have you considered doing 2-disc albums for all the seasons? An example of this would be Howard Shore’s LOTR scores; they were available as single and ‘deluxe’ editions.

I agree with what’s been suggested so far: the Razor cues, The Resurrection Hub, The Signal — all great choices!

(Also, I’ve been listening to “Terminator: TSCC” a lot lately. Such a great album! :) )

Looking forward to hear what you’ve got for us in the last 10 episodes!

Thanks, Bear!

-Chad N.

Left by Chad N. on January 15th, 2009

Hi Bear, i love all your music and offten have battlestar on in the background just to listen to the music haha.

I love all that you have selected, however i think it would be great to include the ‘Kendra Shaw Theme’ from Razor, if not then hopefully it will be included in the Soundtracks released after Season 4.

Left by andywhitto on January 15th, 2009

What better idea to make a successful album than to ask those who are going to buy it what do they want ? :D

The Scorpion fleet shipyards attack is my favorite from Razor ; along with the music heard at the very beginning, before the main title when Cain narrates the “previously on BSG”. As Bobsy said, “It was such a distinctive standout bit of music for the whole movie from the opening monologue onwards that it would be sorely missed if it didn’t make it onto the CD.”

I definitely want “Gaeta’s Lament” and “The Resurrection Hub” : on those it seems I can rest assured :)

Another one I remember very well was at the beginning of “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner” during the FTL jump countdown, and then during the Galactica / Cylon baseship confrontation. Those were great intense scenes, mostly because of the music.
I’m very surprised only a couple of people listed them until now.

Most of the comments are citing the music of the “He That Believeth in Me” starting battle. I don’t really remember noticing it, as we already have plenty of that kind of battle music in the other 3 soundtracks.
*EDIT* : I wrote that before reading the comments, and it seems Bear agrees :)

As for the double album proposal… just like everyone else, I’d love it. I don’t recall any other TV show having a 2 CD OST for one season, but BSG definitely should.

Left by keger on January 15th, 2009

Hi Bear!
I would like to see an expansion of “Under the Wing”. Also, based on something I’ve read for a future 4.5 episode, Philip Glass’s “Metamorphosis” (with a Bear twist of course). Most importantly, I would LOVE to have a track/theme either called, “Starbuck and Apollo” or “Kara and Lee”. Adama and Roslin got their own piece, so it’s only fair that Kara and Lee got one as well. :)

Left by Jeebs83 on January 15th, 2009

This may sound odd, but I’d really like to hear Baltar’s words from Six of One as an introduction on the CD (with the music, but without Tory and the background noise): “It’s like the distance chaos of an orchestra tuning up, and then somebody waves a magic wand…”.

It *is* magic. :)

Left by Tommy on January 15th, 2009

Keger I don’t know about one season, but I do remember the late Joe Harnell putting together a double CD of “The Incredible Hulk” for fans several years ago…..a must have for collectors of his work…..

Left by fanningp on January 15th, 2009

Tommy: “I’d really like to hear Baltar’s words from Six of One as an introduction on the CD (with the music, but without Tory and the background noise): “It’s like the distance chaos of an orchestra tuning up, and then somebody waves a magic wand…”.”

GOOD IDEA! If it couldn’t be extracted from the ep, maybe you could get James Callis to re-record the line.

- M. \”/

Left by Meowlin on January 15th, 2009

Please, no. It never works when a soundtrack loops in dialogue over the music. Indeed, it makes me feel like I’ve been taken for a ride even if it’s just one or two tracks that have it. It’s either cloying or obnoxious, and if I was satisfied with hearing the music with other stuff on top of it, I wouldn’t get soundtracks in the first place.

Left by David Gian-Cursio on January 15th, 2009

“The Signal” and “Diaspora Oratorio” are the must have tracks, grant you we haven’t heard the finale yet.“Diaspora Oratorio” chocked me up especially once we found out what was waiting on Earth. I love all the choices so far, but I have a feeling the best is yet to come.

Left by thetag1 on January 15th, 2009

I’m going to defend the single disc release here for a second…

Don’t get me wrong, the idea of a Bear McCreary double disc album makes me extremely excited, however, I like Bear’s initial idea of having a single-disc companion piece for the other 3 soundtracks. It would be one cd with the best of the best from season 4 just like the other seasons. THEN…perhaps (if possible) the bonus release Bear has been speaking of could contain everything that didn’t make the cut a long with other great music from the rest of the series. Maybe the bonus release could be a 2 or more disc set! Wouldn’t that be frak’n awesome? And it would definitely be something else to look forward to.

Left by MattH on January 15th, 2009

Im digging the idea

Left by RuthlessGravity on January 15th, 2009

If “Gaeta’s Lament”, “The Signal”, and “Diaspora Oratorio” are in, I’m certainly happy. I would lean more towards Alessandro’s vocals if you can’t fit both the instrumental and vocals.

Too bad a CD only has so much space.

Left by JohnLR on January 15th, 2009

Doesn’t the season 3 DVD pack has 6 discs, whereas the season 1 pack only has 5 ? Big deal !

A double album can fit into a standard-thickness jewel case, so it would still look good on your shelf.

And the season 1 soundtrack was for 13 episodes.
Here we have “Razor” + 20 episodes (most of which will have an extended version from what I gathered) + probably “The Plan”. That’s about twice as much video to score, surely this is a good reason to have twice as much music :)

I understand that “companion piece” thing, but I don’t think it is worth “losing” 80 minutes of BSG music.

Left by keger on January 15th, 2009

PS — Bear, you and SteveWork convinced me about the “HTBIM” opening battle music . . . I popped in the DVD and you’re right: much of my enjoyment is from what’s happening on screen, and the music alone wouldn’t be as strong. So never mind. :-) “Storming New Caprica” still rules BSG battle music, at least for now!

Another good reason for a double CD is the three-hour finale, making Season 4 a total of 24 glorious hours of Battlestar if we count “Razor”. I hope we’re still wearing you down on the idea [waves his hand with Jedi mind trick].

One more day, can’t wait!

Left by El4short on January 15th, 2009

Long time reader. First time poster. You nailed the music I’d want on the album. Like many others I say add that cue from from the end of Guess What’s Coming to Dinner. That is one of the themes that stands out in the first ten IMO. You should totally add the last line of the Lament to the theme. Heh maybe even add the Hybrid’s exclamation of jump.

Left by TighFighter on January 15th, 2009

Bear, about taking Gaita’s last lines from the episode: that’s exactly what I was thinking! That’s why (if you’re doing only one disc, but I’d be quite happy with a 2-disc set as well ;)) I thought it such a good idea for a “hybrid” track for Gaita’s Lament (sorry about that pun :P): You can start and end with Gaita singing that way, and still have the instrumental version in the middle. But again, if you do end up doing a two-disc set, I would love two different versions! I can just see how space would be so precious if it’s just one disc, which was why I was trying to offer methods of cutting down 4.0 material size.

Good to hear about Caprica! I’m starting to watch shows based only on your name in the credits. Please keep working. Nobody in TV music has your talent.

Left by jangoisbaddest7 on January 15th, 2009

Bear, congrats about scoring Caprica! Looking forward to your take on that show’s music.

Needless to say, I’m as anxious as everyone else to finally get the Season 4 album. I’d also love a double CD or maybe one album for 4.0 (+”Razor”) and one for 4.5 (+”The Plan”). Guess a lot of people would be REALLY happy, if that’d be a possibility.

I agree with a lot of people that you should include the instrumental cue from the end of “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner?”. It’s such a wonderful theme and it really stuck out when the episode first aired. I’d personally prefer it to be just the instrumental version (without AJ’s lyrics at the end) – “Gaeta’s Lament” should be a track of its own.

A “Kendra Suite” would be nice as well. Loved her theme from “Razor”.

Well and I’d absolutely love you if you could include the “Revelations” version of “Heeding the Call” – the one that played when D’Anna and Lee were agreeing to go to Earth together. That brought tears to my eyes even before “Diaspora Oratio” kicked in (which, of course, made matters even worse).

Glad to hear, that “Passacaglia” and your piano music make a return in Season 4.5! Please tell me that Raya is also coming back – she’s the voice of the show, after all!

Anyway, I adore your work and I’m looking forward to all the things that are in store for us in the couple of episodes left. And I’m sure once the S4 Soundtrack is out, I’ll be stunned no matter which Cues you select.

Best wishes!

Left by penumbra on January 15th, 2009

Another long-time reader, first time poster here. Thanks so much for giving fans the opportunity for creative input! I’m sure many of us will be back after watching season 4.5 to add additional requests & just generally gush about your wonderful music. :)

“If I put that cue from that montage on the album, would you guys want to hear Gaeta’s vocal coming in for that last line, like it did from the show?”

Absolutely! AJ’s solo voice at the end really highlights the despair Gaeta feels during that scene; mixing in additional music as filler would take away some of the impact, IMHO.

So many great suggestions from everyone here, but as long as you include “Gaeta’s Lament”, “The Signal” and “Diaspora Oratorio” as part of the soundtrack, I’ll be very happy (I’d buy your CD for these tracks alone!) “Husker in Combat” from Razor is another keeper, as well as “The Resurrection Hub” (which I assume is the track playing during the actual destruction of the Hub – very moving…)

As far as individual character themes, I’d love a redux of the Roslin/Adama theme (from “The Hub”), but am hoping this theme will also be found throughout season 4.5, so I’ll hold off on any specific request for now. Question though: do you have any plans to score an ‘extended Family Adama’ type theme (one that would include a mix of “A Good Lighter”/”Roslin and Adama”/the Lee & Kara motif from “Violence & Variations”)? I’d absolutely love to hear something like this.

I’ll have to go back & rewatch season 4.0 to listen for any additional cues, but I think any season 4 CD should probably include some track recalling the Opera House visions, seeing as how so many characters are having them. IIRC, there’s also a beautiful moment as Natalie dies in “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner?”, but I’ll have to re-listen to the music from that scene.

Anyway, can’t wait to see what you have in store for us for season 4.5 and Caprica! :)

Left by pangea maru on January 16th, 2009

Hey!

Long time no visit. Ok, if a vocal version of Gaeta’s lament does not make it on the cd, I probably cut my leg off.

But Bear, seriously, I havn’t read all of the thousands of comments here, but just do everyone a favour and make it a double CD. You said yourself that the second half of the season is gonna be even better. Well, the first half of it was already insanly awesome and breathtaking. So it wouldn’t be fair to the fans of your music to shrink it down to one CD. Final season – 2 CDs, I honestly don’t see what should be wrong with that! ;-)

Can’t wait! ^^

Left by Daniel on January 16th, 2009

The music from the scene when Starbuck meets the hybrid in “Faith” *has* to be on the album.

Also, thank you for your great work. I own all your soundtracks from BSG and Terminator.

Bye, Stormking

Left by stormking on January 16th, 2009

Daniel, he did say that even if he doesn’t do 2 discs, he’d do a 2-disc collection of all the stuff that did NOT make it on to any of the soundtracks. Either way, we win.

Left by jangoisbaddest7 on January 16th, 2009

Raya: “oh Bear, And if I perform Baltar’s Cult sometime, can I get back-up chicks?”

Ooh, ooh, pick me, pick me! ;)

Or maybe it’ll turn out that Gillian Welch is a BSG fan, and then you could have all your dreams come true. :)

Left by darcy on January 16th, 2009

Hi Bear,

you pre-picked all the major goodies. If only those seven (or eight) cues were on the season 4 album, I’d already be happy. I strongly suggest Adama’s Breakdown from Revelations to be included, though. It’s such a haunting piece of music!

Keep up the great work!

Left by wrath-of-math on January 16th, 2009

I think the stuff that’s been mentioned several times already will work. Gaeta’s Lament (both versions, perhaps one per disc if you double up), Diaspora Oratorio and The Ties That Bind are probably at the top of my list – or at least of those that I actually remember the name of at the moment.

I wouldn’t mind a double CD. While I haven’t followed the show from the very start, I have noticed a progression in the music from the point I did start watching regularly. The music has become more a part of the show, sometimes like a character itself. That said, showcasing more of it can probably be justified.

Based on what hints you’ve dropped about what’ll be coming out of our speakers, I think it’s going to be very hard for most of us to trim the selections down to fit on a single CD this time around, maybe harder than with the previous seasons.

Of course, it doesn’t all have to come at once and if you later release a bonus CD/set with stuff that didn’t make the final cut and perhaps other stuff (stuff that wasn’t used, demoes, decent live recordings), you’ll have a flock of happy fans.

Left by Revelation 23 on January 16th, 2009

I have to say that I trust whatever you decide to do with the album Bear, regardless of whether it’s a single or two disc set, but I hope you know that I state that remembering your statement in which you said after the series was done you’d probably release a complete set with all of the music including that left out, haha. I am looking forward to that very very much, especially because I never got to have the song where in season 3, Deanna goes to the Oracle, the music where she says “You will hold her in your arms and you will know true love, but you will lose everything.”. Beautiful piece there, so deeply emotional, I adore it.

The only requests I really have for this cd is a vocal version of Gaeta’s Lament, same voice, the song used in The Hub, the strings, absolutely beautiful, and the song where Adama finds out Tigh is a cylon, it’s a distorted string song, somewhat similar to Promise to Return, when he yells and pushes the stuff off his desk.

Regardless, thanks for all the incredible music. I am an avid lover of alternative orchestra, and your music is the most incredible I’ve ever heard. Thank you for all your hard work, you’re a musical genius.

Left by theeyethatalters on January 16th, 2009

Ah and one other thing I forgot to mention. The song during the first battle in He That Believeth in Me, especially the music that begins immediately after Sam gets scanned.

Thanks again Bear.

Left by theeyethatalters on January 16th, 2009

Bear!

The more music the better. I think you could get away with doing a double CD. I’d buy it. There’s so much material to choose from, I see where you’re having trouble pinning it down to just 80 minutes.

Gaeta’s Lament without a doubt should be included with Alessandro’s vocal and extended instrumental track. Last night, feeling insanely depressed and worried about a myriad troubles, I sang myself to sleep with Gaeta’s Lament. I transported myself aboard Galactia and although the lyrics aren’t exactly the most uplifting, it was (for some reason) the only thing I could think of that gave me any solace. I love your BSG music; soaring and eclectic – it touches me on a spiritual level that transcends what the ears perceive. It taps in to my subconscious, exciting and inspiring me to create my own art.

Thanks,

Desperate Times

Left by Desperate Times on January 16th, 2009

Hello all, Bear..I’m checking out the BSG Season 4 Marathon on SciFi. I don’t know what the name of the song is but it’s where Athena confronts Natalie about ” taking her child “..Hera..that song right there..TOTALLY AWESOME. I would suggest that for the season 4 soundtrack.

Marc
BSG blog member Harrison5

Left by Harrison5 on January 16th, 2009

Bear, whatever you decided to include onto the season 4 soundtrack and that bonus cd (or dvd …hint hint.he he) I know we’ll love..thanks for asking your fans..that’s awesome.

Just finished watching Sine Qua Non on the BSG Marathon. I like the last part where Adama is waiting in the raptor and the fleet jumps away.

Left by Harrison5 on January 16th, 2009

Watching the Galactica marathon – “Sine Qua Non” just ended. Whatever you call the cues/themes for Romo – the scene in which he’s discussing “sine qua non” with Admiral Adama, and the scene in which he’s talking to his hallucinatory cat and coming to the realization that there’s only one feasible candidate for interim President – I may be mistaken, but I don’t recall that music being used at any other point – I’d like that to be on the Season 4 CD. Not a deal-breaker if it’s not, of course, but I’d like it to be there.

- M. \”/

Left by Meowlin on January 16th, 2009

Yes, whoever mentioned it before, is right: Thank you for asking the actual listeners of yor work. That’s really incredible! :-)

Left by Daniel on January 16th, 2009

I’m re-watching 4.0 for the second time this month (in addition to the first viewing) and I keep getting the theme from “The Hub” stuck in my head. It’s beautiful, please, please, please include this!! My husband noted that I’ve said I loved the music in this episode every time I watched it.

And yes, thank you for asking the listeners!! The BSG soundtracks are the ONLY CD’s that end up staying on repeat in my car for months on end.

Left by meeshaphrenic on January 16th, 2009

Concerning the instrumental score cue at the end of “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner”…

I would prefer the “clean” version without Gaeta singing the final lyrics. That’s why you call it “instrumental” right? If the “entire” song is on the album anyway, singing Gaeta over the score cue feels a little bit redundant to me (not to say distracting). But that’s only my opinion.

As for the rest of the album I think Tom_19 did a really great selection:

1, Husker in Combat from “Razor”
2, Attack on Scorpion Shipyards from “Razor”
3, Kendra’s Theme from “Razor”
4, HtBiM Nebula Battle from
“He that Believeth in Me”
5, Baltar’s Cult from “He that Believeth in Me”
6, Apollo/Kara Goodbye Scene from “Six of One”
7, Farewell Apollo from “Six of One”
8, The Ties that Bind (Cally’s Theme) from
“The Ties that Bind”
9, Kara’s Fate/Theme from the Demetrius Storyline
(Eps. 4×03 – 4×06)
10, Gaeta’s Lament (Instrumental + Vocal Version)
from “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner”
11, Romo Lampkin’s Theme from “Sine Qua Non”
12, Adama/Roslin Love Confession Scene from
“Sine Qua Non”
13, The Resurrection Hub from “The Hub”
14, The Signal from “Revelations”
15, Diaspora Oratorio from “Revelations”
16, Watchtower Four Theme overall from Season 4.0

For me “HtBiM Nebula Battle” is a must have. It’s one of my favorite action cues of the entire show (so far). I would be really disappointed if it’s not on the album. And more important it kicked off season 4 (“Razor” not counting) and is written to underscore some very important character moments.

I also liked the music for the montage of Tigh being escorted to the airlock, while Adama breaks down and Kara and Anders Love Theme played by solo erhu (both Revelations).

Ok, that’s it for now. Looking foward to the final episodes.

Left by Mathew on January 16th, 2009

Just watching the marathon. During Revelations, the taiko piece during the stand off between the Colonials and the Cylons…… Though I’ll vote in general for the taiko pieces. It’s one of the things I like the best about the BSG soundtracks….

Left by Brumby on January 16th, 2009

Concerning the music on BSG I would really appreciate to hear the song played on episode 1 Season 4 when the colonial fleet try to fend of the Cylons. The song featured had Taiko drums beating in the background. I went wild when it played.

Concering “Baltar’s Cult”:I don’t like choral chants much simply because I don’t have a clue of 1)what the lyrics mean, 2) what the lyrics are about. Are the lyrics about love, war or despair? Those are the reasons why I wouldn’t want that song on the album. Other fans may have a different point of view. However, you have the final decision on that matter.

Concerning “Husker in Combat”, The battle flashback from Razor, featuring Stu Phillips’ classic theme ” I want to hear that.

Concerning “Gaeta’s Lament” just give us an instrumental, that would sound really nice.

Now about “The Hub”, I don’t know which song you’re specifically talking about. However, I do like the song played in which the colonial fleet took down the Ressurection Hub.

Will Caprica have the same type of music as BSG or are you going on a new direction with the new show? Will there be Taiko drums featured in the music or not?

PS. Please put songs with drums please, cause those are my favorite.

Left by smystal0 on January 16th, 2009

Hey Bear,

This is really great you’re letting people put their two cents’ worth in, and you’ve gotten a lot of great recommendations. For me, Diaspora Oratorio is a must, as is both a vocal and instrumental version of Gaeta’s Lament (could be combined into one track if needed, though, just with distinct sections), simply because I find myself breaking out into the tune at random intervals at home and work. Also, I’ve got to say that the theme that happened during tonight’s episode 20 minutes in (Kara and Leoben with the wreckage)… I know we’ve heard variations of it in the past, but this time it was absolutely haunting. I’m not sure if that’s the solo erhu people’ve been talking about, but whatever it is, it breaks my heart. You’ve got to put that in!

When it’s all said and done, I second the motion for at least a double-disc set. The material this season demands it. And from the look of the comments here, I think we demand it, too. :)

Can’t wait for next week!

Pearl

Left by Pearl on January 16th, 2009

I would, of course, love all of that stuff, but must-includes for me are Gaeta’s Lament, especially the instrumental at the end of that episode (which was absolutely riveting to me when the show aired), and the Hub piece.

Left by sonofamitch on January 16th, 2009

Bear you’ve got to have to put the song on episode 1 of season 4 where Kara decides to neutralize Sam and the guards just so she could get to the president. That’s the song that plays at the end of the episode. I really, really love that song!

Left by smystal0 on January 16th, 2009

Bear,

First, let me say that your music is the best. As a fan of Balkan and Middle Eastern music, I think it’s so great that you use so many different world instruments in your scoring. You really paint with a rich musical palette.

I’m eagerly awaiting the Season 4 soundtrack even though Season 4 isn’t over yet! I would love to hear Alessandro Juliani sing Gaeta’s Lament as well as the ominous orchestral version at the end of Guess What’s Coming to Dinner (it seems that any music cue that includes the fretless electric bass means bad news). Tonight’s episode had some great cues in it as well, but I need to watch it again to get them all. I do remember the music playing as Tyrol remembered his prior life as being quite haunting.

Could you also include some live cuts from the BSG concerts last year? Heck, just put out a DVD of that show… or do a couple on the East Coast for those of us who couldn’t make it. From what I’ve heard it was an incredible series of concerts.

Left by Zbeeblebrox on January 16th, 2009

Please please please include the variation on “Adama and Roslin” that played during the beautiful last scene of The Hub. I love how it’s slowed and the harmony comes to the foreground. Just beautiful.

Thank you for all of your wonderful work!

Left by lawyerlady on January 16th, 2009

After watching Sometimes A Great Notion, I think a suite with all the various cues for the Final Five is a really important thing to include, as well as the cues playing during the scenes with Starbuck on Earth, especially the one when she finds the Viper and during the Viking funeral. Truly haunting. Maybe include them in the Kara’s Fate suite?

Also I don’t remember, but I think maybe there was a cue when Dee killed herself? The tune she was humming?

And as always, you’ve outdone yourself. Even in an episode that really didn’t need music, you managed to compliment it so very well.

Left by Mike on January 17th, 2009

I definitely would like to hear the “orchestral” version of Gaeta’s lament from the the end of Guess What’s Coming to Dinner included on the album. I rewatched the DVD’s recently and this piece of music really stands out. So if not on this album then certainly the next!

Along with that I’d like to hear the Kendra Shaw piece that plays when she and Fisk board the Scylla. I thought that was the highlight musically of those particular episodes.

Left by jpen on January 17th, 2009

Long time reader, first time poster. First of all I’d like to say congratulations on Caprica, and I can’t wait for that to hit TV screens — neither can I wait for tonight…

As far as what I hope makes this soundtrack, I just want to clarify what’s meant by the “instrumental version of Gaeta’s Lament” — there are two notable instrumental pieces in Guess What’s Comming to Dinner, one at the beginning (which you don’t mention in your blog at all) and the one in the end. The second is similar to the first, but isn’t just a repetition — and I wanted to clarify that the first part, so bass-heavy it reminds me of Something Dark is Coming, makes it onto the album.

As for the others, I was going to suggest some sort of Cylon-themed compilation to represent season 4, but from your other blog entries it sounds like they feature even more prominently in the second half, so maybe we can hold off for those. ;)

Left by pure.Wasted on January 17th, 2009

Hello from Sweden. This is just one voice among others, but hopefully it’ll be heard.

The list you made is already filled with the key songs I had hoped for. In addition I’d like to add the Razor theme, or the Kendra Shaw theme as some call it. Husker in combat is the obvious choice.

*Kara’s destiny theme when she examines her crashed viper would make a nice contribution.
*Dee’s theme, her humming included.

As someone mentioned previously, adding ALL the music to the blu-ray (But don’t forget us region 2 people!) is a swell idea!

/Christina

Left by ChristinaF on January 17th, 2009

Bear, the music has been so amazing and just keeps getting better. My favorites (and suggestions) for season 4 are “Apollo’s Farewell” and “Gaeta’s Lament”- it has to have a vocal version! And after last night’s episode, I would love to hear Dualla’s theme on the soundtrack. You worked her little hummed tune in perfectly.
Cheers!

Left by CarolinaBlue on January 17th, 2009

Here’s mine so far (not to repeat too much from above, but these are the ones that jumped out at me):

2 discs–either a double album or 2 single discs (1-Razor/4.0, 2-4.5).

1) The Gaius on Gaius palindrome.
2) The as-yet-unheard-but-only-teased “Passacaglia” variation.
3) Dee’s music, with her humming from “Great Notion”.
4) Raya’s vocal version of Adama/Roslin.

And to echo the sentiment of so many here, thanks for asking for our input, and congrats on “Caprica”.

Left by robbmann on January 17th, 2009

You should do what Michael Giacchino did for Lost season 3, and make it a double cd if you can since there is so much material for season 4, especially with the rumored 4hr finale.

So Razor (and please don’t include too much of that) and all of the episodes up to the last one or last few. Then a second cd for the finale music, because I’m sure it will be amazing!

No matter what, and I’m sure you will, include the finale to 4.0 when they find earth, the battle from the first episode from 4.0, and the piece when D is finding the objects in the sand on Earth and riding back on the raptor, but that is all I can think of for now

Left by erikottowegner on January 17th, 2009

Well…let’s see. Oh, I don’t know…maybe…EVERYTHING?!!?

:)

Yes, I know…not practical. But a girl can dream.

I vote (loudly, and often) for “The Signal” and “Diaspora Oratorio.” Of course, you mentioned those already. I’m just reiterating/reinforcing your excellent choice.

:D

Left by ntrlstgrl on January 17th, 2009

The theme that played during Kara’s discovery of the body and when she sees the comet is so far my favorite this season, maybe the series. I love that style of music. The body scene actually gave me chills. That hasn’t happened to me in a long time.

I LOVED the small snippet of the new version of “All Along The Watchtower”. If not on this album, I think it should definitely make its way onto a leftovers compilation or something. IMO it sounded even cooler than the first version.

It’s going to be so hard narrowing this down for a single disc given we have more episodes likely to have some amazing stuff in them…

Left by John Crichton on January 18th, 2009

Thanks again for taking our opinions Bear, it’s great that you’ll listen and see what we’re dying to hear.
One one hand I see the argument for a double cd, a single is already going to be jam packed with the music from 4.0, then you’ll have to try and squeeze in whatever from 4.5, or the vice versa. If you made a double cd I bet every person here would buy it.
But on the other hand, if you made a single cd with all the biggest and most desired you’d get a lot of the buyers, even those who aren’t completely crazy enough about your stuff to buy a double, and then go and release a complete box set, all of the seasons, ALL of the music, everything that was left out, your fans would go nuts for, I know I would.
In making a final hard decision, I’d say single disc. All the huge works and that’s it. Then on the complete works add everything that’s left out and requested, that way you also won’t possibly lose profits trying to get people who loved a couple of songs off of 4 to buy a double disc, which they may then shy away from, and increase the number of purchases for the complete works, because you said that you were going to release that. Why take the chance of losing money, when a little later you’re going to release the complete works inevitably, why re release all of the music twice? After all this is your job, this is your means to income, whether you’re thriving unbelievably, or barely surviving, this is your job. This way you won’t possibly make profit dents, and everyone will get all the music they want, they’ll just have to wait a tiny bit longer.
You’ll get a lot of advice against this possibly, but it’s easy to forget yourself when you just want what you want. They’ll get it in time this way. Guaranteed.
It’s wonderful that you’re doing this, but if you did this for every cd, not as many would buy the complete works, and there may not be as much reason to release it, and I know people that are DYING for you to, even if it means waiting forever. Give the lesser fans who loved one or two songs something they will easily and happily be able to afford, and give the avid ones something a little more expensive, but something they’ll adore if they just wait a little longer.
Regardless of whether you agree or not, I’m sure you’ll make a great choice. Thanks for all the great music Bear.

Left by theeyethatalters on January 18th, 2009

Thank you for your compositions. All is wonderful.

I especially waiting pieces of S4:

* Ties That Bind: Cally’s sadness. Perfect melody.
* “The Resurrection Hub”: Great symphony.

If it’s possible, to be complete length.

Greetings from istanbul.

Left by pureocean on January 18th, 2009

Bear – I love all that you have done thus far… I have all that you have done for Battlestar Galactica – It’s what I choose to listen to always. Please dive into the character pieces. MY AL TIME FAVORITE IS PRELUDE TO WAR FROM SEASON 2. WHAT YOU DID FROM 6:06 FORWARD WITH THE STRINGS IS AMAZIN. My absolute favorites are as follows:

Miniseries:
Apollo Is Gone/Starbuck Returns
To Kiss or Not to Kiss

Season 1:
The Shape of Things to Come {From Kobol’s Last Gleaming, Pt. 2}
Battle on the Asteroid {From Hand of God}
Boomer Flees {From Flesh and Bone}

Season 2:
Allegro
Prelude to War ESPECIALLY AT 6:06
Pegasus
Roslin and Adama

Season 3:
Adama Falls (From ‘Unfinished Business’)
Admiral And Commander (From ‘Exodus, Parts 1 And 2′)
Under The Wing (From ‘Maelstrom’)
Wayward Soldier (From ‘Hero’) (MY FAVORITE FROM SEASON 3)

Left by luvabmw530 on January 18th, 2009

Bear – COULD YOU EXPAND THE STRINGS SECTION OF SEASON 2: PRELUDE TO WAR? (6:06 TO 8:25) IT’S MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE PIECE OF ALL TIME AND MY ONLY PROBLEM IS THAT ITS ONLY 2 MINUTES LONG – PLEASE!!!!

IT IS SO WORTHY OF MORE. I AM SO APPRECIATIVE OF THE TALENT THAT YOU DISPLAY WITH THIS PIECE. IT IS SO BEAUTIFUL…..

Left by luvabmw530 on January 18th, 2009

Hey Bear,

wonder if uve considered adding that piece i mentioned in my earlier comment at the beginning of guess whats coming to dinner..not gaeta’s lament.. it plays in the scene with natalie being questioned by adama, roslin, et al and where she tells them the final five are in the fleet.. if that piece can be included on the album and what its called..

and thansk again for considering our input!

Leif

Left by Leif573 on January 18th, 2009

I am another first time poster. I love your music and, like another poster, listen to it at work while designing. Try as I might, I can’t quite focus on music while watching a show. It just works perfectly to set the mood and I know I like it but it isn’t till I get the CDs that I ‘hear’ the music. For that reason, I’ll just say I’m sure that all those suggestions up there are good ones! Definitely Gaeta’s lament was a high point for me because of my love of traditional ballads. I like the idea of him coming in over the orchestra like he does on the show.

But what really prompted me to post was your wondering if we were willing to buy a 2 CD set. I could almost laugh. My other passion is Shore’s LOTR score and I own the Regular Edition CDs, the Limited Edition CDs, the Complete Recordings (about $150 just for them), and will be buying the Rarities Set in October. So I’d plop down the money for a 2CD set of season 4 BSG in a heartbeat!

Now, if you could just find a way for me to read all that blog material and hear the music you’re talking about at the same time. (Can’t read music that well and, like I said, it’s hard for me to hear the music within a scene. I just so caught up in the story.) I’m eager to see how Doug Adams incorporates multimedia content with his upcoming book on the music of the LOTR movies. Perhaps something similar for BSG?

Left by Magpie on January 18th, 2009

Heya Bear,

Ive become such a huge fan of your scores on BSG, some of the most powerful music I have ever heard. Before I make my suggestion, I have to say Prelude to War is my absolute favorite peice.

That being said, Id love to hear the song everyone else is calling “Gaeta’s Lament”, the instrumental version that plays as Roslin is walking through the basestar on her way to meet the hybrid. Was cello used in that one?

Left by gator on January 18th, 2009

I absolutely adore the Roslin and Adama arrangement at the end of “The Hub.” It is one of my favorite moments in the series and the music was perfect for it.

Also I would like to hear the Razor theme (when Kendra is being shown the Pegasus).

Thank you for all that you do for the show!!

-Bobathin

Left by Bobathin on January 18th, 2009

Hi. I´ll beg for a 2CD album….please, please, please…End it with a bag. I will always remember Battlestar Galactica, specially for the music.

I´d like Bear to include the tune that sounds at the end to Escape Velocity…and I´d suggest to include Baltar´s words. “….something in the Universe loves me, something in the Universe loves the entity that is me….” I´ve seen this scene so many times just because of the music.

Left by DOIKE on January 19th, 2009

Frak!. I got the wrong title….episode 4.04. Six of One

“love your faults, embrace them….”

I´d love to hear again a variation of that piece, that sounds when Baltar admits to Laura he gave the access code to the Cylons in The Hub.

Diaspora Oratorio should also be heard at least twice, with and without Admiral Adama´s words.

I´ll have to watch the season again to get more ideas.

Por favor, 2CDs.

Left by DOIKE on January 19th, 2009

Thank you Bear, for scoring Caprica too.
I just read it inn galacticasitrep

Left by DOIKE on January 19th, 2009

Hi Bear. First off I want to let you know just how truly beautiful and stirring your scoring for BSG has been, and it continues only to get better with each season. My top picks to make your next release would be:

1. The attack on the Scorpion fleet shipyards in Razor.

2. The Roslin and Adama variation from the very end of “The Hub”, when Roslin tells Adama that she loves him. This is without a doubt the most evocative and gorgeous variation of their theme.

3. The variation of Diaspora Oratorio in “Revelations” when Lee and D’Anna Biers are talking in the hanger bay, and they agree to a truce so that they can “go to Earth together.”

4. I know its pretty short, but it is so beautiful in its dark, sinister mood – but the cue where Brother Cavil revives D’Anna and tells her that war has broken out amongst the Cylon, and that he has brought her back to “heal us.” From “The Hub”

5. Gaeta’s Lament – my REAL WISH is to have a version that is his vocal, but with a blend of strings as well (as when he is in sick bay and singing as Lee arrives to see President Roslin).

This season cd will be a tough one to put together because you have composed SO MANY GREAT PIECES. I don’t envy you – especially since we only just started with the second half of the season, so who only knows what other great pieces we will hear.

Many thanks for being such a visionary composer!

Left by sokarschild3043 on January 19th, 2009

One theme I haven’t seen mentioned here is the rendition of Tigh’s theme as it is played in “Escape Velocity” when he sees Ellen. I’d actually wish to hear more of Tigh’s theme in any case, since it has so far only appeared on one track (Martial Law in Season 2).

Apart from that I can only echo what has already been said: A 2cd-set would be awesome, both versions of Gaeta’s Lament (both are excellent, and I believe I even like the instrumental version best), just about EVERY SINGLE NOTE of Cally’s theme in TTTB (Love that theme!!), ….

Left by Jerry on January 19th, 2009

Bear,

I’ve been a huge fan of the BSG soundtrack since June of this year. You’ve really done an amazing job; Season 3 is a masterful piece of work, and I’ve already heard several tracks in Season 4 episodes that have left my practically breathless. I can’t wait for the OST.

Now, pleasantries having been dispensed, I don’t think I’m going to say anything that hasn’t already been suggested, but for the sake of validation, here are the things I think you must include.

First, the revised Roslin and Adama theme from “The Hub” absolutely must be present. I wept when I first heard that track, and it attached me to the Season 2 version instantly.

Second, yes, Gaeta’s lament is a must, on both fronts you mentioned. Grab Alessandro and definitely do a vocal, but that’s not all. I’ve already heard some gorgeous instrumental variants of the lament in Season 4; I’m sure you know which I’m talking about. The best of those, if not the best two, should be present. If you need a good rationalization for including 3+ songs based on the lament, it’s simple. It’s one of the pivotal themes of Season 4.

Speaking of pivotal themes, I’ve also heard more Watchtower stuff from time to time, including a very interesting terminator-like track a few episodes back where you took the heavy guitar riff from Watchtower and basically played it on the drums. That’s gotta be there.

And finally, I think you already noted this one in your opening post, but the track that played while the Hub was being blown up was phenomenal. Don’t dare leave that one out.

Good luck with the mixing process. So say we all, eh?

Miles

Left by Demorian on January 19th, 2009

Also, I saw someone above call for a 2 CD finale. I will second that (or third, or fourth? I don’t know)… I know you try to distill your stuff, and I respect your reasoning immensely, but I’d encourage you to look at it as a tribute/finale to the entire series’ soundtrack… plus the fans will adore you.

Left by Demorian on January 19th, 2009

Whatever you do – just make sure to include the final Lee/Dualla theme and Dualla’s humming – by far one of the most unique and beautiful compositions yet…

Left by Aggie-Titan on January 20th, 2009

I don’t suppose it would be helpful to wish for a composer’s promo? Something containing ALL of the music, including variations and re-takes, along the lines of the “Special Super Ultimate Mega” editions of the Star Wars’ scores. That would make me score-gasm for sure.

Left by Sabrina on January 21st, 2009

Well, two musics I’ld love to hear on CD would be the new Kara’s theme, the same that his appearing in deathbead and maelstrom on the season 3 soundtrack, but uncut and unmixed with other part of musics, and Gaeta’s lament instrumental in the end of Guess what’s coming for dinner ^^

Left by Engal on January 21st, 2009

Bear – know I’m late on this one, but I just found your site after completing the purchases of the series to date. (Faves so far have been Passacaglia and Prelude to War). To be frank, I dont care what you do with the single cd – I will get it – but I would love to see the LOTR treatment that Howard Shore got. Every bit of the score from all 4 seasons released on both CD and HD DVD. I would get them….

Left by Sucktastico on January 21st, 2009

First off, thanks for all your incredible work and accepting our comments.

And second, I second a scoregasm, haha.
Yeah I would love to see a box set of unreleased too Bear, even if it was 30 discs and cost a couple hundred, I would buy it, as well as many others I know.

Bear could you answer a question for me? What is the song that was played in the beginning of Season 3 when Deanna goes to the oracle, whose tent she sees in her dream, and the oracle tells her, “You will hold her in your arms, and for the first time you will know what it is to feel true love, but you will lose everything you’ve done here.” That music during those lines, that is the song I would request if you ever did a bonus cd set or single cd for that matter. Is there any chance of every hearing that?

Left by theeyethatalters on January 23rd, 2009

I just wanted to post and add my vote for seperate soundtracks for season 4.0 (Razor-Revelations) and a 4.5 (Sometimes a Great Notion-The Plan). Makes sense to me since each one is ~13 hours.

Left by cbosdell on January 23rd, 2009

I would buy it for Geata lament alone. I owould like an instrumental and a vocal version!

Left by Karnius on January 23rd, 2009

THE RESURRECTION HUB!, and also Husker in combat, but please, please please bear, PLEASE include the hub, its a wonderful piece of music, and once again thank you for Worthy Of Survival, most epic piece of music I’ve had the pleasure of listening to in my short 19 years of life :]

Left by Arcilios on January 23rd, 2009

Well, now that we’ve heard “A Disquiet Follows My Soul,” a suite of the Roslin and Adama theme from this episode would be something I would be very interested in hearing.

Left by Swashbuckler332 on January 24th, 2009

I would love to hear the song that plays at the beginning of “The Hub” right before they plug the Hybrid back in – in part it’s a recapitulation of Gaeta’s Lament, isn’t it? A suite of variations on that theme would be great, akin to the Violence and Variations on the S3 soundtrack.

Left by Romantique on January 24th, 2009

Honestly, I wish you include everything. I’ve been listening to your music for over a year, practically non-stop. It gets me to work, it gets me home, it helps me brainstorm, concentrate, and generally feel inspired. Kudos.

As for Season 4, I agree with everything already posted. Definitely a lot of music from Sometimes a Great Notion. Since it’s so unlike everything else on the show – it really illustrates just how far BSG and her characters have come – it would be great for it to be featured.

I can’t wait to hear what you come up with next.

Left by IcarusOne on January 24th, 2009

Haha! Thanks. Pretty much everything I’ve heard off of the BSG CDs that have already been released has made me “score-gasm”. ~_^ I’ve been into film music since I was about 5 years old, but these scores (together with your awesome analyses here) have really taken the cake.

After having watched last night’s episode (“Disquiet”), I second the motion for adding (perhaps an extended / edited together version) of the “Roslin And Adama” reprise. Got to be one of my favorite pieces yet.

Left by Sabrina on January 24th, 2009

I also second the song from when Laura’s running, gosh what an unbelievable song. I don’t know, haha, how you do it, but you do.

Oh and one other thought I wanted to mention. If you ever decided to make additional pieces, just things that you come up with, and like post them on your site for sale or something, the fans would love it. I know that I will always keep a close eye on your releases from here on out, even after Battlestar is finished.

Left by theeyethatalters on January 25th, 2009

In order of preference:

“The Resurrection Hub” – This theme is just so awesome.

“The Signal” and “Diaspora Oratorio” – Obviously

I second Romantique’s suggestion for the song that plays at the beginning of “The Hub.” That was beautiful as well as being intense at the same time – very powerful.

The battle music from “He that Believeth in Me” – Great action music and I love the use of the taiko drums.

“Roslin & Adama” – The revised more complicated version you created for this season is very good.

“Gaeta’s Lament” – Vocal or instrumental, either would be awesome

Left by Spetz on January 26th, 2009

Bear: “I’ll have to go back and check it out to be sure. As I recall, that’s a cue I wrote for underscore there, nothing too fancy. You’re the first fan to point that scene out.”

Ah awesome. I realize that nothing more may happen with that song, and this is just the whim of one of your crazy fans, haha, but I loved that song, and would be incredibly happy to see something about it.

Bear: “I’ve releasing a lot of non-BG music in 2009 that you guys will really love if you give it a chance. Even after the show wraps, keep an eye out here on the blog, since they’ll be announced here first.”

Awesome. I can’t wait to see what you have planned.
Thanks for the response and all the great music Bear.

Left by theeyethatalters on January 26th, 2009

I’m just gonna say it. The music that starts off the second half of the fourth season, “Among the Ruins” is arguably the greatest piece of music you’ve ever written, (WHY AREN’T YOU WRITING FILM SCORES?) it was beyond unbeliavable. Let’s just put it this way, those first few minutes are some of the most beautiful gloom I’ve ever heard. It was incredibly haunting and restrained. Kind of reminded me of Jerry Goldsmith’s work for Alien, and Elliot Goldenthal’s for Alien 3 (both scores I think are quite frankly amazing), gloomy but elegant, cold but passionate. This track was a gift, cuz it’s next to impossible to find this type of music, if it is a type. If it makes it on the CD I’ll be unbeliavably happy.

Left by NeoFall on January 29th, 2009

Hi Bear,

After lurking for a while on your blog and enjoying the depth it adds to BSG, I thought I would post and toss in my additional votes for two pieces already on your list — “The Resurrection Hub” and “Gaeta’s Lament”. They might be my favourite music from the show, ever. The Resurrection Hub was haunting in the strangest metaphysical way, and a great example of how your music often plays up the less-obvious emotions in a scene (in that case, at least for me, sympathy for the Cylons). Gaeta’s Lament similarly seemed to come out of nowhere (in the good way). The chords sound great on a guitar to the rhythm of its reprise at the beginning of the following episode. I would personally take as many versions of it as you can muster.

Thanks for being so communicative and best of luck,
silverquick

Left by silverquick on January 29th, 2009

I’m from Czech republic, and I’ve just read an article about Season 4 OST and possible bonus soundtracks. I want to watch BSG from the beginning and when there’ll be more episodes. So I’m now in Season 2 and I like the scene in Episode 202 where col. warriors meet cylon troopers. That I would like to hear, but it’s your choice. I also have an idea about latest bsg movie and upcoming movie Razor and Plan. Is there going to be any soundtrack. I didn’t see the movie, so I don’t know anything about soundtrack, but there’s sugestion that you could make 2CD edition with Razor and Samples from all seasons and webisodes. I hope that I didn’t write anything that would offend you, but I heard that you’re welcome to see any sugestions so that’s why I wrote it that way. Thank you for this chance to write to a very good Composer.
P.S. I like your soundtrack from Wrong Turn 2

Left by Darth Raelchi on January 30th, 2009

Hey Bear,

Was just curious to see if any plans have developed for the soundtrack. Like have you decided whether or not you think you’ll make it a one or two disc, and how long the extended unreleased works set will be.

Thanks Bear : )

Left by theeyethatalters on January 31st, 2009

Hi there,
I’m maybe stupid, but I can’t find Among the Ruins in your BSG OSTs. I’m in the middle of 3rd Season and I did have to skip it somehow. Although thanks to two sagas I thank to be in Soundtrack world, and it’s Star Wars and Alien. Alien and Alien 3 are one of my favorite soundtracks, so pleace notice me where I can find Among the Ruins. Also I’m looking forward to see season 4 and listen soundtrack from season 4 and maybe some bonus samples which may occure after season 4 on CDs. About a week ago I started to listen deeper your latest soundtrack from Sarah Connor Chronicles and I must say it really surprised me, ‘cos I thought that I would find no use of Terminator Theme or I would find soundtrack with Terminator theme overdose. I’m glad that you used Terminator theme only in the opening and in the most of samples you used terminator type motifs. When I listened Cromartie I really thought that I see T-800 infront of me. Really good job from you, although you are still busy with other projects. I must say since BSG you are one of the composers who starts 21st century.

Left by Darth Raelchi on February 1st, 2009

Which music cues for season four? hmmmmm . . . how about ALL of them. I want them ALL! I don’t care how short. GIVE ME ALL THE FRAKKING CUES! I really hate picking up soundtracks only to have the one cue I really wanted left out. At least offer them as a separate download. I’ll happily pay extra.

Definitely Husker In Battle and other cues from Razor. But, what to leave out??? OMG. Don’t make me decide.

Left by tony202aqx on February 1st, 2009

I’ll rephrase my original comment. After re-watching “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner” I now want primarily desire the main Gaeta’s lament instrumental version that plays at the end of the episode – outstanding. And I now no longer second Romantique’s suggestion for the song that plays at the beginning of “The Hub” as this is just a continuation of Gaeta’s lament to emphasise the time line in which the events of this episode occur.

Left by Spetz on February 4th, 2009

There are so many from season 4 on my wish list, and I was glad to see others call out for them as well. I want to cast yet another vote for the instrumental cue incorporating the theme from “Gaeta’s Lament” that played while Laura was trying to talk to the hybrid (“Guess What’s Coming to Dinner?”/”The Hub” teaser). The arrangement of that piece totally kicked ass, and it gets stuck in my head if I even think of it for a moment. Like now, for instance.

Left by RMW on February 6th, 2009

I assume we’re talking about the action cues for “Daybreak.” Most likely everyone’s going to clamoring for them one way or another, and being that its a 3 hour show means pure Taiko drum heaven…

My answer depends upon if it’s a 1 or 2 CD set. Personally speaking, I enjoy listening to the music the way it’s presented on the show, and while “Prelude” and “Storming” were basically edited together out of shorter cues, they’re truly powerhouse pieces on the album. (Even my favorite long cue, “Something Dark Is Coming”, was somewhat edited from the show presentation, albeit for the better — it has a much better flow and progression on the album).

That being said, I would prefer as much of these upcoming long action cues as possible, and if its a ten minute track or longer, so be it. Certainly a 2 CD release will have enough space for them…

However, if the Season 4 soundtrack is to be a 1 CD set, then I’d rather have a shorter cut so that other essential music doesn’t get cut for time.

Left by vicmackey187 on February 7th, 2009

Bear said:

“Do you prefer really long battle cues, like “Prelude to War” & “Storming New Caprica” or shorter ones, like “Fight Night” or “Precipice”?”

First time commenter here, so not sure I’m qualified to answer, but I vote for longer battle cues being COOL! More music! Double disc! (I’m greedy.)

I’m also another voter for Gaeta’s Lament. Vocal – as long as it’s Alessandro Juliani providing the vocal performance – and instrumental versions please. And, could we have an a capella version too? (See? Greedy.) Your music amazes me every episode (the last five eps have been outstanding) and I clamour for more, but for this particular piece, I would really enjoy the simple purity of AJ’s unaccompanied voice. The Lament never fails to make me want to weep. That’s a compliment!

Thank you for what you do, and for this wonderful, informative, elegant blog.

Left by Esk on February 7th, 2009

Hello Bear concerning

“Do you prefer really long battle cues, like “Prelude to War” & “Storming New Caprica” or shorter ones, like “Fight Night” or “Precipice”?”

I must admit that I LOVE the long battle cues! “Prelude to War” was good and “Storming New Caprica” was great! Keep those ones long please, pretty please?

Left by smystal0 on February 8th, 2009

Count me in for the long battle cues as well!

The Season 4 soundtrack is going to be EPIC!

Left by MattH on February 8th, 2009

Bear wrote : Let’s say (for argument’s sake) that there are some action sequences coming up that could ultimately lead to album tracks even longer than anything I’ve done before. Does that sound cool or just annoying? Curious to know what you think…

Bear, I’d say frackin go for it !!..make them longer if you want..that would be totally awesome. I personally like the longer songs like Prelude to War & Storming New Caprica but then again I like shorter songs like Fight Night and Precipice. I was watching some of season 4 today (yes, finally have the dvd’s..woo hoo ) and the music from the battle scene where they were still in the Nebula/Starbuck just returned was just totally beyond AMAZING !!

one thing I’m bummed about with the bonus dvd that came with season 4. I was really hoping to see footage of you and the musical staff recording..in the studio or something. When I saw you with that one guy at the taiko drums, I thought ” hot damn ” we get to see those drums in action..Grrrrrrr…what a frackin tease that was..LOL..The hub music was excellent, so was Gaeta’s song. The song where Caley was suspecting Tyril of cheating was very very moving to

Left by Harrison5 on February 9th, 2009

The song that has stood out to me most is Something Dark Is Coming, my favorite for sure. Then a couple from Season 1, Two Funerals and Flesh & Bone, which I say Flesh & Bone is something I think you could most definitely rework in some way, and would love to hear that!

Left by StorminSkies on February 9th, 2009

Personally, I prefer longer cues. The reason why “Preldue to War” and “Storming New Caprica” (or “Something Dark is Coming” and “Violence and Variation” for that matter) work so well is because their length allows them to build up momentum. Go for that!

Left by penumbra on February 10th, 2009

I prefer longer cues too.

One piece that I would love to hear a longer version of is “Pegasus”. It’s a beautiful guitar buildup to the main theme, but the soaring string theme ends too quickly. It worked perfectly in the episode, but I would loved to have heard more on the album.

Left by morristsai on February 11th, 2009

Hey bear the piece that played when John was talking to ellen about cracking open her head to get the key to resurrection it sounded like a part of “resurrection hub” and then the drum beats from worth of survival and dark union, it was like 20 seconds long, but id like that piece uh the episode was the one that aired tonight (next from blood on the scales)

Left by Arcilios on February 13th, 2009

Hi Bear,

Let me first say your work on BSG is absolutely epic and a cornerstone of this fine show. I feel a bit like a kid in a candy store thinking about what tracks I’d like to hear on your album. Here’s a number of memorable Season 4 bits off the top of my head:

* The track sampled for the DVD menu music for Razor…I think it was part of the action score towards the end of Razor.

* Kendra’s theme (?) from Razor.

* Baltar’s cult–both the parts when he first meets the cult and later in ‘He That Believeth…’ when he’s praying for the sick child.

* The bit where we’re introduced to the Demetrius and Kara is plotting the Demetrius’ course. Also a bit from a later episode where you used the same motif again for when they encounter the damaged rebel basestar coming out of the debris field.

* Natalie’s death and Roslin’s abduction from the end of ‘Guess What’s Coming to Dinner?’

* Gaeta’s Lament.

* The Hub.

* The choral chant when the fleet makes the jump to Earth.

* The revised opener for No Exit restating the understood history of BSG to date.

Left by baltar on February 14th, 2009

Hey Bear,
I loved the music from “Blood on the Scales”. In particular when:
1. Adama is being led to the hangar and kelley walks away
2.Chief Tyrol is crawling through the ship
3.Roslin makes her threats
4. and you have to include the heroic music that coincided with Adama retaking the ship
I also like the revised prologue in “No Exit”.
Great work!

Left by endsea on February 16th, 2009

Longer. Definitely longer.

Left by musicpaladin2007 on February 16th, 2009

Hey Bear I think you should revist Forgiven From Season 1(You can’t go Home)

It is a powerful score that is too short but really ultimately is a major theme in the BSG universe.

I also really enjoyed A Distant Sadness. Some thing along those lines would be nice.

Left by watchtower117 on February 17th, 2009

Hi Bear!

Wow! This thread is HUGE! I am a first time poster here, but a long time lurker. I absolutely love this blog and adore you for the efforts you put into maintaining it, which are heroic.

I will lend yet another voice begging for a double album. Is the worry that there’s some kind of cost difference or something? I’ve got no problem with that!

You asked a great question, and got some great answers here that I would like to add my voice to:
Longer battle cues, (like Gaius Baltar), are the motherfraking shit!

I have always loved “Something Dark Is Coming,” and “Prelude to War,” precisely because of their length, and think that they really allow us soundtrack listeners to get into the music, to access the feelings of the moment in ways that the aired cut didn’t allow.

I really feel that, for example, Gaeta’s Lament Instrumental, was presented in a somewhat fragmented way in the episode: the musical ideas kept jumping around. I would love the version on the soundtrack to really luxuriate in those ideas and make it a true, lengthy piece of music.

And who knows about Daybreak? I know it will be awesome! Bring the awesome.. bring it!

Regards,

Alex

PS- looking forward to seeing you on the piano in Someone to Watch Over Me.

Left by Architect on February 22nd, 2009

Mr. McCreary,

Thank you for the opportunity to make requests for the BSG Season 4 soundtrack.
I am a big fan of your work for this show and I look forward to checking out some of your work for other projects.

Since I am probably one of your older fans (55), I have been a longtime afficianado of film and tv show scores. A few favorites of the last few years would include:
Dances with Wolves by John Barry
Superman Returns by John Ottman
and just about anything by John Williams. Of course, this list hardly scratches the surface of what I have enjoyed over the years.

With your wonderful work on BSG, you have become my newest favorite composer.

To the subject at hand, I will say that you and many others have already suggested most, if not all, of the cues I would have requested for season 4. As the final 4 episodes are aired, I will reserve the right to return and add new suggestions.

However, I would like to make a few requests from past seasons for the compilation project you have mentioned. I will not be able to be as fully descriptive as I would like, but hopefully you will know to what I am referring.

1. Any of the Adama-Roslin cues that have not already appeared.

2. From the episode “Act of Contrition” (season 1), the piece that plays during a scene between Kara and Adama when she tells him what really happened to Zak.

3. An episode from season 3 which features Adama imagining a conversation with his ex-wife on their anniversary. There is a cue which seems to play every time the story cuts to their scenes.

4. If there are any other cues that featured Ludvig Girdland and the Supernova String Quartet that have not already appeared. I hope Mr. Girdland has recovered from his injuries he sustained during season 2. Please accept my apologies if you have posted information on his condition elsewhere on your blog that I may have missed.

Mr. McCreary, thanks again for reaching out to the fans and for your great website. I agree with many who have said they will buy whatever you finally decide on, no matter how many discs it takes. The more, the better.

Best wishes and much continued success.

Shawn

Left by Shawn on February 23rd, 2009

From “A Disquiet…” the variation of ‘Roslin and Adama’ as Laura runs through the ship and Adama brushes his teeth and such. It’s such a different way to use this oft-heard theme.

Left by benoreski on February 23rd, 2009

Please include Military Theme in one of its incarnations. I immediately recognized it in Blood on the Scales as a theme I love and I can’t believe it hasn’t made a previous soundtrack. So pretty please!

Left by lawyerlady on February 23rd, 2009

Remix the US main title into a kind of longer colonial fleet theme.

Arrgh can’t remeber it but the song from kobol that plays in the opera house may be a good cd finisher.

Left by watchtower117 on February 26th, 2009

Is there any chance we can get the version of ‘All Along the Watchtower’ that plays near the end of ‘Someone to Watch Over Me’? The one with Kara and the piano player that starts out with the piano? I loved that scene.

Left by Arsh on February 27th, 2009

I completely agree with Arsh. I would love to hear the piano version of Watchtower that was played at the end of Someone to Watch Over Me.

Please!

Left by DAC on February 28th, 2009

Hey :)
I was absolutely amazed with this week’s episode (‘Someone to watch over me’)!
I’d like to congratulate you on your work and ask of you to include the full Final Five Theme on the coming cd. I would surely order it if you’d include it, it was just amazing!
I’ve read your article on the episode and from what I collected there’s no full version yet but I’m sure would be able to produce one ;)

So say we all!

Left by zeslm on February 28th, 2009

Another request for the piano rendition of Watchtower and the Final Five theme :)

Left by Darth_Angelus on February 28th, 2009

As the last comments already say: We absolutely need the piano version of the watchtower on the album.
Also I really liked the piano from the very beginning of the episode (before the intro) and would really love to hear that on the soundtrack as well.

Regarding a 2 CD version you should absolutely go for that; there has been so much great music in this season so far, that it would be a shame, if you had to cut too much from the album. BSG has been such a great series so far and the epic season 4 has so many different settings, that it deserves an epic 2 disc soundtrack album.

Left by cynric on February 28th, 2009

Hey Bear,

I had to come post because the music in ‘Someone to Watch Over Me’ was just amaizing!!

If the finale’s score is soo good it could fill an entire disc I can’t wait to hear it! The music has always been one of the best things with BSG.

I’m rooting for the 2-CD idea, especially because it’s the last season of BSG. :(

Thanks for all the sound of BSG!

Left by digitzen on February 28th, 2009

Bear,

I just had to register for your site so i could post one thing. Put the piano version of all along the watchtower on the album! Also, a double album is a great idea. Thanks for making great music.

Left by Destro777 on March 1st, 2009

Dear Bear,

I REALLY enjoyed the “Piano” version of the Final Five song from when Starbuck was playing the piano from the episode from Friday, February 27, 2009. When she was playing with the pianist (Who is my guess, supposed to be her father).

If you would add the Piano version of the Final Five Theme to that song, i would buy this album JUST FOR that one song. I have “LITERALLY” listened to the song on video on Youtube over 300 times TODAY. And i started at about Noon(EST).

Left by A. Cale on March 1st, 2009

Absolutely, positively, and without a doubt, you must include the score to the opening montage from “Someone to Watch Over Me” — which, if my understanding is correct, is part of Slick’s Sonata (in fact, you should include the whole thing).

And please, despite being an audiophile, don’t re-master it too much! You went to the trouble of sampling that poor not-so-old-but-sure-looked-it piano to get its authentic sound just right, and replacing it on the soundtrack would just ruin the whole feeling =(

Sincerely,
-Scott

Left by Scott Armitage on March 1st, 2009

Hey Bear! Just saw your comments asking for input, so two things.

I’m a big proponent of the one disc album. I know it’d be hard to do, but it’d make a really good companion piece AND it’d make the “Everything Else” soundtracks that much richer, but if you think you can’t do it, I guess do the two…

Second, I think that the longer action cues are good. I’m a proponent of longer songs as they feel more meal-like than snacky. I hate when I have a song that I really like that’s only about two minutes long. I really enjoy Fight Night and Precipice, but we don’t lose anything by making them shorter. What you do in soundtracks that really stands out to me is your ability to use your skills as a writer to make something as long as it needs to be to fit the narrative pace and length that the song needs to be. One of my favorite things on my iPod (and have been since I got them) are the opening twelve minutes to “Into the Woods” (Sondheim! Love!) and Michael Giacchino’s ROAR! (from Cloverfield). They’re long and epic, but they’re ultimately rewarding and satisfying. Release something that’s longer, I say, if you’ve got the narrative power to back it up.

And I agree with Destro777: That piano “Final Four” (see? I read your blogs) should be on the final cut of the album. Also? The prologue to “No Exit” (as I’m sure others have said) and something actiony from the mutiny two-parter (those Japanese instruments were extremely awesome).

P.S. I think I decided in my executive power that “Puff the Magic Dragon” should be in Eureka style (because that show could use some of that Bear-does-folk-song magic).

Left by GungaDin on March 1st, 2009

Hello Bear,
This is the first time I am writing on your blog so THANKS ALOT for your amazing music.
I don’t jave that great an input but like others said, I would DIE to have the fuller, longer piano rendition of ‘All Along The Watchtower’ we heard Kara Thrace play at the end of ‘Someone To Watch Over Me’ and the yes, another longgg complete version of the Final Five Theme. Please!
Thanks alot!

Left by Jane on March 2nd, 2009

Dear Mr. McCreary :

Thank you for asking us, the fans, what we want to hear !. I hope it is not too late to give you my two cents on the subject.

I am sorry I am not giving too many references like other fans are. You must know “Battlestar Galactica” is a very underrated TV show here in Mexico. The last I saw on BSG was Season 3 on TNT Latin American Networks, on 2007, and nothing has happened since then.

I can’t understand why local TV stations don’t take a little pride on a TV show like this, where a great Mexican-American
actor like Edward James Olmos has a featuring role.

My brother has been on the U.S. a couple of times for vacations, and brought me back Season 1 and Season 3 CD’s, which
are extraordinary.

And buying DVD’s is becoming expensive nowadays because of the constant depreciation of the Mexican peso against the U.S. dollar.
Season 4.0 box set, which is originally marked at US$37.98, costs no less than US$59 here, so I am saving to buy it because I can’t wait to see how the story ends ( When that happens, I promise to watch your “Inside The Secrets Of The Behind The Making Of The Music Of Battlestar Galactica: Revealed” documentary ).

Back to the main subject :

+ A last song on Sanskrit or Armenian, sung by Raya Yarbrough (By the way, Congratulations ! ).

+ A last, fast, energetic ( like “Mandala in the clouds” ), yet fun ( like “Fight Night” ) taiko drum ensemble piece.

+ A last Irish song ( I liked “A good lighter / Wander my friends / Admiral and commander” very much. “The Dance” is also great ).

+ The “Razor” theme as we hear it when the DVD options are shown.

And yes, I vote for a two-disc album, too. It would be a great way to close the BSG music saga. Thank you and all the musicians and people who work with you for the amazing trip !.

Good luck on your future projects !
So Say We All !

Javier
City of Guadalajara, Mexico.

Left by JavierC on March 2nd, 2009

Hey,

I just thought I give some more input on this whole soundtrack thing. I think that a 2CD disc is an excellent idea! There is so much new material in season four that it would seem impossible to try to cram it all onto a single disc. Additionally, two more songs which I feel are a must have is Slick’s Sonata (the one he plays when Starbuck tells him he needs to learn how to play first) perhaps in an extended form if possible and the final five piano version as heard in the episode. The build up and reveal of the final five melody in the episode sent chills down my spine and I would love to be able to listen to it in album form.

Thanks,
~Brent

Left by Koloth on March 2nd, 2009

Oh and I meant to mention: I think long battle scene tracks are an excellent idea! I love those tracks on the earlier albums and would like to have more and longer battle tracks.

~Brent

Left by Koloth on March 2nd, 2009

Heya Bear,
yes of course the ones above,
but from my point of view you have to include also the piano version of “all along the watchtower” (or perhaps a combined version of both), the track who’s played when the fleet arrives at earth and of course a vocal version of “Gaetas Lament” (just by the way: I wrote a guitar part for the song ;-) If you wanna hear it just ask (p.l.master@gmx.de)^^) perhaps with additional piano part.
So long,
Greetings,
Phil!

Left by Methos93 on March 3rd, 2009

Wow! I am a man of few words so I will make this short and just say it; Your work is absolutely amazing…

There is one song in particular that I think would really go well in your sound track and that is a completed piano version of the “Final Five Theme Song”, I only heard about 30 seconds if it in the latest episode and I actually dropped my drink and stained my £2,000 carpet because of this astounding tune.

Keep up the great work,

Fox (fox-design@live.com)

Left by Fox on March 3rd, 2009

On a different note, will it ever be possible to buy a recording of The Collapse of Saint Francis? I’d easily drop the money for it, even if it were only available as a digital copy.

Left by Miraba on March 4th, 2009

Hi Bear, firstly just want to say that your work AMAZING…

I particularly loved the instrumental of “all along the watch tower”, in the “someone to watch over me episode” the moment the piano sequence led into the full instrumental was AMAZING I still have goosebumps! loved it. Is there any chance of getting a similar version (to the one in the episode) of “all along the watchtower” instrumental only?

keep up the fantastic work- I cant wait for the caprica scores…

Left by daysleeper on March 4th, 2009

Hey Bear,

I, for one, would LOVE to see the original version of “All Along The Watchtower” as it appeared near the end of “Crossroads, Part 2″ (with that groovy riff in the intro) on the Season 4 soundtrack.

Same goes for the piano version that Starbuck plays in “Someone to Watch Over Me”.

Otherwise, keep up the good work, it’s been great, and I look forward to hearing your contributions on “Caprica”.

Left by nemofaturlatin on March 4th, 2009

Please put the piano version of the final four theme on the season 4 CD!

Great work through out the show!

Left by Keith_Cain on March 5th, 2009

From Daybreak Part I:

• The opening montage over old Caprica.

• Roslin’s dip in the fountain (loved the call back to Epiphanies)

• The brief little bit at the Wall of Remembrance where Adama makes the decision to go back

• The scene in the hangar bay where everyone makes up their mind whether or not to go.

Left by vicmackey187 on March 14th, 2009

Hi Bear,

huge fan of your music, I particularly love the new arrangements of the Tigh/Ellen theme. I like the softer versions of it. I’d love to see the moment where Tigh discovers Ellen is the Fifth from Sometimes a Great Notion find its way onto the soundtrack! Also Kendra Shaw’s theme from Razor was great, if you were to have a piece that encompassed all the themes from Razor, including the great minor key version of the original theme, that would be super! There are so many different pieces that would fit so well on the soundtrack, but they are two that would really be brilliant!

Thanks Bear!

Seán

Left by prettypianogenius on March 14th, 2009

Another long time lurker, first time poster here.

I think all the suggestions so far are excellent. One I might want to add (also from Razor) is the “Fall of the Scorpion Shipyard.” I found both the composition as well as your commentary on both the scene and your creative process to be excellent.

Left by HisDivineShadow on March 14th, 2009

Hey Bear,
I really hope you integrate the piano version of All Along the Watchtower into the CD, as well as the music that young Kara is playing during Kara’s dream.
Thanks for the GREAT work! I can’t wait for the finale!

Left by endsea on March 16th, 2009

Long time lurker, but just had to take the time to register for this!

Definitely go for the 2CD!

Please include the Someone to Watch Over Me Kara & father duet in its entirety… I just love that track.. speaking of which, where’s the film version of the All along the watchtower hinted at a while back.. will that be making an appearance somewhere?

very well done!

Left by yaschaeffer on March 18th, 2009

I definitely agree with the commenter above…I absolutely loved the Kara/Slick duet, particularly the climax of the duet (where the piano is joined by the other Watchtower instruments), and would love to see it on the CD. So far that has been my favorite scene in all of Battlestar…I’ve gone back to watch it many times!

It was an amazing musical scene!

Left by Znewell on March 18th, 2009

the series ends tomorrow, do you have a final release date for the fourth album? Im itching to buy it…

Left by Arcilios on March 19th, 2009

Wow! Awesome finale with an awesome score yet again! I was practically shivering the whole 90mins, lots of that thanks to your wonderful score.

This last episode alone could make a whole score cd, so it will surely be hard picking the tracks for the album. On the other hand this is a good thing, since I am pretty sure, that you will (basically _have to_) go for the 2 cd version. :)

What I would absolutely love to have on the soundtrack:
The music from the opera house scenes (I can’t remeber hearing this on the previous CDs although I really liked the (IIRC mostly string-based) music during the surreal scenes of season 3. And if it was on there then it wasn’t enough ^^)
The extremely intense theming of the battle and the colony infiltration
The quiet yet tense strings during Baltar’s speech in the CIC.
The music leading from the last view of Hera to the present day.
Also the (original I presume?) Watchtower version at the episode’s end would make a great soundtrack end too.

These are my favourites for todays episode; I can’t wait to get the CDs (and of course the all-season extra album you mentionend :) ).

Thanks again for your great work during the series and please let us know if and when we (Europeans ^^ ) get the chance again to order signed copies of the score (eg from Dark delicates) again.

Best wishes from Germany.

Left by cynric on March 21st, 2009

I am going to put another vote in for 2 CD, there was so much great music in the Finale let alone the whole season. Seems a shame to not have it on a recording.

Left by Valavien on March 21st, 2009

Bear:

Might I make a humble suggestion of a variation of the original soundtrack release; three discs plus a DVD? That would be worthy of a great season like this and the fantastic music you wrote for this. It really deserves no less.

Left by SteveGauss on March 21st, 2009

Good luck with the CD prep Bear!
I’m really relieved your going to give a 2 CD set a try and honestly can’t wait to get my hands on it.

How’s The Plan going? Started yet? Finished yet??

Thanks again for everything you do….

Left by CaptPorridge on March 22nd, 2009

Season Four was a musical masterpiece…as was the whole series actually, there’s so much i want to hear and own coz i love every remix of every song/theme you ever do which makes it difficult.

Personally my musts are:
Kendra/Razor Theme
Hub Theme
Kara Running In Revelations
Going To Earth In Revelations

Almost Everything from Daybreak, I would also really like any amount of Final Four themes, this tune is in my head 24/7 but i havent even really got a copy of it, i particuarly like the versions when Tigh is being marched off in Revelations, the piano version in Someone to watch over me

Anyway im stoked because i know whatever you come up with will be gold anyway.

Thanks for making awesome music.

Left by ire0003 on March 22nd, 2009

The best choice (in my mind)
CD1 : Season 4
CD2 : Daybreak – the Serie Finale

Left by darth2602 on March 22nd, 2009

and…

a Special CD : Razor, the plan, Atlernate cue and Demos…

Left by darth2602 on March 22nd, 2009

Hi Bear:

First time poster, long time lurker. The finale would not have nearly been as emotionally gut-wrenching if it were not for your amazing work. I would not have been as emotionally tied to the characters if it were not for your music. I am very much anticipating the release of season 4. If you go the 2 cd route as stated above, I would like to plead for Kendra’s theme/main Razor theme to be included within the two cd’s. That will help me survive until a full Razor cd or the big box set is released.

I can watch the performances of my favorite characters on dvd now but I can listen to your music anytime on the cd’s and on my ipod. And, now that the series is over, your music will always remind me of the best scenes, characters and pieces of BSG. Thank you for your hard work on BSG, and I look forward to your work on Caprica.

Left by caprica06 on March 22nd, 2009

2CD a must… plz include Kara/Slick duet version of Watchtower or whatever name you give it… and the version from daybreak part 2 (if it’s different) when Starbuck is about to jump Galactica…

your music is as important to this show as any page of dialog or special effect…love it… thank you

Left by S74RBUCK on March 22nd, 2009

Bear-

I think that is a very wise decision, and great way to do it. I think there’s plenty of room for the best of the best of Season 4 if you split it up that way, and I don’t mind waiting until the next CD release for Razor/The Plan material. Am just hoping the wait for this CD will not be too long!

Left by musicpaladin2007 on March 22nd, 2009

Bear:

I agree with just about everyone on here that we need season four to be special. We need, require, and absolutely must have as much as you can get the makers to release. Minimally I’d agree with darth2602:
CD1 – Season 4
CD2 – Daybreak – The Series Finale

I could listen to the flow of the themes in the last hour over and over, and the old main theme queue as the fleet begins the journey into the sun was simply marvelous.

I’ve been a fan of film music for 30 years, and very biased that which I love. My first sound tracks were the original Star Wars, and the first Galactica score by Stu Philips. I didn’t know what to expect from this new series, but it has been such an incredible gift in so many unexpected ways. I remain unable to remove the Season Three soundtrack from every listening device I posses, and this has been going on for months now.

In the end, I think it’s safe to say all of us here on this board would love eventually see much, much more music released from all the seasons. We’d be good and spoiled with some live video from these live performances of the BSG music.

May your well of themes never run dry.

Left by guitartist on March 22nd, 2009

First off, whatever you do Bear, DON’T, and I repeat DON’T let any of the corporate overlords waste your disk space by insisting on putting Hendrix’s “Watchtower” version on this release. We can find that already on a milliond different releases of his work and other soundtracks, but only can get some of your music (until all of the Bear McCreary BoxSet Genius is released). Seriously, no matter how much they think it’ll help “push” album sales, that just is one less McCreary Track we get.

Second, pertaining to “watchtower” Cuts, you MUST include the version (the FInal version, if you will) of it from when Starbuck Jumps Galactica a final time. That’s an amazing, culminating version that I am waiting on pins to hear. I’d also appreciate a few cuts from daybreak where they’re doing all their recon/corridor battle stuff. Very Good tracks there that stood out for me. Also, songs from the slo-mo sections would be preferable.

I just wish we could get a street date on this. I am foaming at the mouth for new music from you bud, and I already own ALL your other stuff. Please let us know what you’ve heard on that ASAP if you can.

Best,

Jay

Left by jyhash on March 22nd, 2009

Bear, this is fantastic news as far as the arrangement.

It fulfills the goal of including the best of Season 4, while also making it something extra special with the score to “Daybreak”.

The Season 3 soundtrack was such a fantastic CD, and judging by what I’ve heard in the show, this one should be just as jaw dropping, if not more so.

If it takes a little longer to get the CDs ready for release, take the time.

Left by OneBuckFilms on March 23rd, 2009

Your 2CD set idea sounds fantastic! Especially after hearing your score for the finale! This seems too good to be true! I absolutely cannot wait.

I’m willing to wait for Razor and The Plan in order to get all of the awesomeness of Season 4! And don’t get me wrong, I loved Razor and I’m sure The Plan will be no exception, but I personally never really considered Razor part of season 4 anyways so to have them separate or in a box set would be just splendid. :) And those words “box set” make me REALLY happy!
Thanks Bear!

Left by MattH on March 23rd, 2009

jyhash says “Second, pertaining to “watchtower” Cuts, you MUST include the version (the FInal version, if you will) of it from when Starbuck Jumps Galactica a final time.”

I completely agree, this arrangement gives me chills every time I watch that part. I just had to watch and listen again before I finished the reply, lol…loved it! :)

Left by MattH on March 23rd, 2009

I’m so glad you decide to do a two disk set for this season, and please no Jimi Hendrix version of Watchtower. We want more of Your music. Also Forgiven from season 1.

(Sorry notice a theme to my posts LOL)

Left by watchtower117 on March 24th, 2009

Without a doubt you have to have the piano + rock + orchestra version of All Along the Watchtower that played while Starbuck was jumping the ship in Daybreak, Pt. II.

It might be superfluous, but I’d kind of like to see the only piano version of Watchtower from Someone to Watch Over Me, as well. I can see that being cut in favor of the full version from the finale, though, and I’m alright with that.

I also quite liked the orchestrated version of the Number Eight/Hera theme that I believe we heard a snippet of during Daybreak, Pt. I.

As for the rest of the season, the big stand-out pieces I’d like to see you already mentioned: Gaeta’s Lament (especially if it’s the full version that plays in that entire final scene of Guess What’s Coming to Dinner?), the Resurrection Hub.

Great work as always; as a musician myself, your work is always my favorite part of the show!

Left by Serrion on March 24th, 2009

Basically, I would LOVE to see a two disc set! I have absolutely loved every second of the music this season. Well done sir! Some MUST SEES on the album are Gatea’s Lament, the All Along the Watchtower music played by Starbuck in “Someone to Watch Over Me”, the funeral music from “Island in the Stream of Stars”, and as much of the gorgeous music from the entire “Daybreak” finale as possible. Thanks!

Left by ChrisHartwe77 on March 24th, 2009

Hi Bear! Thanks again for your incredible, incredible work, without which BSG wouldn’t have had nearly as much emotional impact. I’m no music geek, so all I can really do is tell you how much your music made my heart soar in all the right places. The very best film scores enhance the drama and emotion of what’s happening on screen, making the scene itself transcendent; I can honestly think of no better example than the BSG score (and I’m a huge film score nerd, I own the Lord of the Rings, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, Star Wars, and 300 scores, off the top of my head).

I’m VERY glad to hear you’re planning to release a separate disc of the Daybreak score; much like the finale itself, it encompassed everything that was great about the previous 4 seasons and then kicked it up about 10 notches. I’d also like to beg for the inclusion of the Watchtower arrangement at the end when Starbuck jumps Galactica; I have replayed that scene I don’t know how many times on my DVR just because the music is so. frakking. awesome. The opera house music is also a must have, as is the arrangement of “The Shape of Things to Come” at the end with Adama. I am pretty sure the tears I got in my eyes during those scenes had a good deal to do with your incredible music.

The finale gave us emotional deliverance and closure for all of these characters we’ve loved for so many years now, and it wouldn’t have had nearly the impact without your score. Thank you so much for capturing the soul of BSG. Thanks to you, a great show transcended the boundaries of television and became art.

Left by bain_sidhe on March 24th, 2009

Now that the show’s over I think I know what I’d like to hear in the last soundtrack, since “Daybreak” it’s pretty much covered, I’ll stick to disc 1, there are just 2 tracks that I need to hear, the first one is “The Hub” which I’ve been humming non-stop since the episode aired (no, I’m not even close to kidding, and if there’s a chance that the little evil sounding statement with drums from “No Exit” can appear as well that would be great), and the other is Ellen waking up in the resurrection tub which singlehandedly convinced of Ellen’s new persona and the fact that she was indeed the fifth (and it just doesn’t sound like anything I’ve heard before…well for being a variation of Tigh’s theme). As for a complete wish list, it would be something like this:

- The Final Cylon Prologue or 4.5 Prologue (Epilogue?) [No exit]

- The Battle in the Ionian Nebula [He who Beliveth in me]

- A Suite for Cally [The Ties that Bind]

- Kara painting in the Demetrius while the Destiny theme sounds really hopeful[Escape Velocity]

- The instrumental version of Gaeta’s Lament [Guess what’s coming for dinner](I assume the photo in the last post means the vocal one is already a go)

- The Hub [The Hub]

- The Signal [Revelations]

- Happy version of the Final Four theme as they are all forgiven by Lee[Revelations]

- Diaspora Oratorio [Revelations]

- Among the Ruins [Sometimes a Great Notion]

- Kara burns her body [Sometimes a great notion]

- Laura Runs [A disquiet follows my soul]

- A suite for the mutiny (With some statements of Gaeta and Zarek’s theme)

- Ellen resurrects [No Exit]

- Kara slowly remembering the final four theme [Someone to watch over me]

- A little preview for “The Plan” [Well the show is over and we have to wait so long, and it is a wish list after all, it's not necesarily going to happen].

As for “Razor” if it’s going to be in this CD, the Husker Battle and Kendra entering Pegasus would be nice. Whatever ends up in the CD its going to be gold anyway as were the other soundtracks. Good luck Bear.

Left by raftrap on March 25th, 2009

My must-haves for the CD

1. “The Signal” and “Diaspora Oratorio” from “Revelations”

2. A medley from the battle from “The Hub” (Helo landing on the Hub, the Base Stars exchanging missiles, and Helo’s escape with D’Anna as the Hub is nuked are all great cues)

3. The instrumental arrangement of “Gaeta’s Lament” that begins when Natalie’s raptor comes in to land on Galactica at the end of “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner”

4. The very end of “The Road Less Travelled” – the mutiny scene, and its continuation in “Faith”

5. The cue that begins when the base star jumps into the middle of the fleet in “Guess What’s Coming to Dinner”

6. The scene at the end of “Sometimes a Great Notion” where Tigh has his vision of Ellen.

Thanks!

Left by MikeRoz on March 26th, 2009

You probably have a lot to sift through, but I thought I’d list out some things I’d really like to hear on the ssn 4 soundtrack from 4.5.

-I think it would be AWSOME to start the season 4 soundtrack off with your arrangement of the prologue queue from “No Exit”

-The “ruined earth” queue

-Kara’s Destiny theme. At least one track. When featured in Islanded and Sometimes a Great Notion, they were absolutely gorgeous.

-The “book-burning” scene with Laura, and the subsequent “body-burning” scene with Kara are musts IMO

-The Roslin jogging queue, perhaps intercut with the queue in which Roslin throws her pills away

-Zarek theme

-The “Gaita talks with Baltar one last time” queue, or at least an instrumental version of Gaita’s Lament

-At least one action queue involving the Biwa and other new instruments introduced in “The Oath”

-The piano piece featured at the very end of “Someone to Watch”

-Again, a Final Four theme arrangement, ending in the queue from “Revelations” where Lee and D’Anna shake hands. I know, it’s not 4.5, but still.

-Somewhere, a version of Tigh’s theme would be awsome (since it’s evolved so much now)

Daybreak:

-The epic buildup starting from when Kara and Adama set down tape, running all the way through to the scene where Tigh tells the CIC to declare themselves (EPIC strings!), and connecting that with the “Prelude to War” arrangement somehow

-The action queue with all the bagpipes

-The Kara/Lee statement at the end (particularly when the pidgeon flys out of the apartment)

-The Millitary Theme and its transition to Boomer’s theme as Adama changes his mind about the rescue mission

-Kobol’s last Gleaming theme where Hera is wandering the corridors and Cavil is storming them like a badass

-Shape of Things to Come at the very end (you know, the OFFICIAL end with Adama XD)

I think those are the truly essential tracks (well, except the first…I just thought it was a cool idea). Thanks for listening!

Left by jangoisbaddest7 on March 26th, 2009

Oh! I’d also like to hear Dee’s little song (hopefully both the happy and dark versions).

Left by jangoisbaddest7 on March 26th, 2009

The things I was going to suggest have already been said but I’ll throw them in anyways. The opening battle music from the first episode of Season 4.0. “The Signal” and “Diaspora Oratorio.” Starbuck’s piano theme from “Someone To Watch Over Me.” Maybe even the music used in “Daybreak” Part II when Starbuck’s jumping the ship. That whole final space battle in Daybreak. Perhaps the music in “Sometimes A Great Notion” when the characters are discovering how bad Earth is. When Roslin burns her book. When Kara burns her dead body. Those pieces sent shivers down my spine. Perfect.

Left by Andy on March 26th, 2009

Definitely should include the Instrumental version of “All Along the Watchtower” that awoke the Final 4. Also the piano version of it that Kara done would be interesting to have aswell. But this song has great significance and really should be included.

Left by Tanith on March 26th, 2009

One more vote/plea for the Roslin/Adama arrangement at the end of “The Hub.” It made me cry, for HOURS. Please don’t leave this one out.

PS this is my first post, and I joined just to make this comment. Amazing work on an amazing show that deserved nothing less.

Left by spinneresque on March 26th, 2009

[...] few months ago, I posted an entry asking fans which pieces they would like included in the upcoming Battlestar Galactica: Season [...]

Left by Bear’s Battlestar Blog » Blog Archive » Soundtrack Album Updates on March 27th, 2009

I mentioned before that I really loved the Roslin and Adama arrangement from the end of “The Hub,” but I also realized that the other arrangement that really stood out to me was the version that was rewritten to describe the relationship between Adama and Galactica (where one note was made flat I believe). I thought that it was a very interesting use of it, and I hope it is included. Perhaps you could create a Roslin and Adama track combining several of the times it is used. It could build up to the climax with the arrangement where Roslin is running through the halls and eventually boil down to the B-theme from “The Hub” and then Roslin’s death. Just an idea ;) I can’t wait ’till mid July! hehe

Left by Bobathin on March 28th, 2009

Okay… here are my pics:

1) Start the album with the new revamped prologue

2) The battle from He That Believeth

3) Baltars Cult from He Believeth, etc

4) Cally’s Theme/Death from Escape Velocity

5) Some of the Demetrius search for earth music/Kara’s destiny/etc (perhaps as a suite)

6) Gaeta’s Lament

7) The instrumental arrangement from the climax of Guess What’s Coming To Dinner (I realize you may not put both this and the album vocal version on there)

8) The Hub battle from The Hub

9) The Signal from Revelations

10) Diaspora Oratorio from Revelations

11) Among The Ruins from Sometimes a great notion

12) Kara finds her body from Sometimes a great notion

13) Book burning/Kara burns her body from Sometimes a great notion

14) Laura Runs

15) Mutiny Battle suite from the mutiny arc would be good containing the new instruments (biwa etc) and Zarek’s theme

16) Someone to watch over me piano pieces

17) Boomer kidnaps hera

And, gosh, where do I start for Daybreak ( I know you said practically the entire score… but I realize you said you wrote 100 minutes of score, and a cd only fits 70)

1) The opening “Caprica Before The Fall” scene with Home/Earth theme into military theme

2) (Maybe) Baltar theme from phone call in limo

3) Someone to Trust arrangement

4) Laura gets in the fountain (awesome, a must!)

5) Adama’s realization/decision in the hallway with boomer theme

6) Hallway montage with the explanation of the declare your intentions meeting (must)

7) Adama’s Big Speech on the hangar deck (must!) into Roslin and Adama

8) Adama’s Big Prebattle Speech into The Colony Battle (I know it’s long, maybe multiple tracks) with excerpts from the internal battle with mutiny instruments (biwa, etc) (a must!!)

9) Roslin, Athena, Hera, Six and Baltar and The Opera House (a must!)

10) Baltar’s Angels Among Us speech

11) Cally’s theme/death? (not a must especially if you include this from Escape Velocity, but would be nice)

12) Starbuck FTL scene

13) Earth reveal

14) Perhaps a suite of raptor flies to earth/The plan of settlement

15) Kara/Anders goodbye arrangment

16) Adama flies the last viper/Circling Galactica/Fleet Goes Into The Sunset

17) Wander my friends/Roslin – Adama theme where he carries her to the Raptor

18) Lee/Kara goodbye

19)Flyover/Roslin dies

20) Diaspora excerpt/Earth theme from the long line hiking

21) Shape of things to come (Baltar-Six into Adama on Hill) ending (A Must)

22) 150,000 years later

(Maybe you should swap the last two tracks so that it ends with the Big Ending, or join the last two into one track, with it being an epilogue to the track)

Left by musicpaladin2007 on March 29th, 2009

Boomer/Tyrol love song

Left by ilovebsg on March 29th, 2009

Just saw this… I hope I’m not too late!

Please, include the arrival at desolated Earth (last chapter of 1st half of season 4), I’ve been following your music since the beggining and the montage of celebration and sorrow for the lost people (a theme you remember on the final scenes with people departing) is one of the most moving moments of the whole series. Congratulations, but pleaaase, include it!!

Left by Tycheth on March 30th, 2009

I think my favourite music from season 4 was in The Hub. That reocurring theme during the second half of the episode. Glad to see that’ll probably make it.

Left by choco on March 30th, 2009

Mr. McCreary, is there any way I can purchase Diaspora Oratorio from you as a download? It sucks we have to wait for such perfection from my favorite composer.

Left by rictorious on April 1st, 2009

Oh! Forgot two items!

Forget the name, but from the second episode of the season… the awesome arrangement of Wander My Friends where Lee gets his salute off the ship to the life of politics

Also the arrangement of Lee/Starbuck theme from when he visits her in the brig and says goodbye.

Left by musicpaladin2007 on April 2nd, 2009

Bear,

I already know you’re including the cue where the fleet flies into the sun. I suggest the title GALACTICA’S GLORY.

Also, a nice concert version (not live) of the many versions of A GOOD LIGHTER. I love the orchestration in Daybreak II where Adama leaves the GALACTICA for the final time and you hear it as he is boarding his Viper to go. Very emotionally charged and beautiful. I love this version the best now. And incorporating such a powerfully moving orchestration to the original GALACTICA theme mades this track a must have for the fans.

Thank you for including it.

:-)

Tom Tagliente

Left by tom_tagliente19 on April 14th, 2009

Bear, you are awesome! I would love to have on there the duet between Starbuck & her father from “Someone to Watch Over Me” please; that whole scene where it meanders into the “All Along The Watch Tower” song. It gives me goose bumps every time I hear it. Thanks!

Chris Hamilton

Left by duranite on April 15th, 2009

Hey Bear. I do have…two suggestions. The mixed version of All Along the Watchtower (Daybreak Part II – Jump to New Earth scene) and the score while Kara is running through Galactica to stop Lee airlocking the Final Five in ‘Revelations’ I believe.

Thanks!

Left by EvilGrizz on May 2nd, 2009

I would love to hear have the Captain Ahab remix of “The Signal”.

Left by christopherm on May 6th, 2009

Bear, thaks for your wonderful music.
I really really want this cd to include the wonderful violin them from the hub.
the first time I heard it I thought, waow what is this music? it is when there is this battle, before Baltar is hurt. please leave it on the cd please.
I think you really should make a double cd, in one you can’t get everything, and your fans (me included of course) will be sooo sad.
Laurence from France near Paris

Left by caprica12 on May 7th, 2009

And I forgot one I really love, it is the love theme with roslin and adama (in episode 4×14?) and when she dies in the final episode.

Left by caprica12 on May 7th, 2009

Hello Bear,
I’ve followed your blog the past few years, and find it exciting that you share your composing methods and so actively engage with your readers. Needless to say, I’m a large fan of your music. It is thrilling to hear such powerful, emotionally compelling music on television programs.
As you probably have already chosen the cues for the upcoming album, I have a question regarding the album arrangement. As I was going back through the episodes to think of suggestions, I became curious about the way you would conclude the “Daybreak” soundtrack. In your corresponding blog, you wrote that you felt the scene with Adama on the hill was the “emotional” ending to the show, while the “150,000 Years Later” scene was the “conceptual” ending. For me, the “Passacaglia” theme in the first ending definitely has the makings of a powerful musical ending, whereas the following piece is more a transitional cue. If you include both on the album, would you find it more important to arrange the cues chronologically or for the best listening experience?
I’ll throw in two suggestions anyway. “Starbuck’s Funeral Pyre” from “Sometimes a Great Notion” and “Adama Retaking the Ship” from “Blood on the Scales” were two of my favorite cues from Season 4.5. And I don’t need to mention the awesome music from “Someone to Watch Over Me.” Thanks for letting your fans be part of your musical process.

Left by aeroman42 on May 29th, 2009