Goosebumps - Danny Elfman

10/18/15

The classic scary characters: werewolf, yeti, jack-o-lantern, dummy... and... praying mantis.... and... lawn gnomes?

What You Will Hear:  Burton-esque orchestra, Spider-man-esque brass, and theremin (or saw?).

Standout Tracks:  Goosebumps, Ferris Wheel, Camcorder, Ice Rink, Werewolf (Bonus Track)

Will You Be Humming Along?  The main theme will stick with you right from the opening track.

Best if performed by gothic boys choir.

The score this makes me want to dust off:  Starship Troopers – Basil Poledouris
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Will I come back to it?  No.  The first track introduces a nice main theme and gives the impression that we’re in for some classic Elfman fun.  The second track is perfectly contrasted to the first as it shows off a sweet and playful texture.  The following cues continue in the right direction.  But, after “Camcorder” and “Ice Rink”, the album begins a slow but steady decline.  The biggest problem is that the action is too busy.  Think: “Oh look a monster, whew we got away, OH NO LOOK ANOTHER MONSTER!”  A perfect example is the first ten seconds of “Capture.”  Listen and you’ll know what I mean.  The (assumed) frenetic nature of the movie doesn’t do Elfman any favors.  The few moments where it does slow down are nice, but there is just not enough time left for deeper development.  The instrumentation also sounds a little thin.  Don’t get me wrong; you’ll hear the usual big brass section. However, Elfman’s use of the brass is usually balanced by the use of choir, bells, celeste, wind chimes, and other metallic magic.  Those moments of wonder are few and far between on Goosebumps.  The idea of Elfman scoring a monster comedy movie is almost too on point.  While I appreciate the varied use of the main theme throughout, (and some of the more comical moments really are fun) this is not one I’ll be returning to.

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