When the Sci-Fi Channel announced a new, reimagined Battlestar Galactica back in 2003, I was skeptical.
I was a fan of the original series, as dated as it seems now, from watching it in my youth. When I read about many of the elements that were being changed, I was even more skeptical. Then Edward James Olmos said if you were a fan of the original that you shouldn't watch this new take. Well, I watched it and enjoyed it, even though it left me underwhelmed.
Then the series was announced, I started watching it and was I instantly hooked. The look, the writing, the acting, the effects, everything came together in such a perfect way that it fast became one of my favorites, and easily one of the best series currently in production.
There was, however, one more element that helped make it feel so fresh, original, and exciting. That element was, and is the music of Bear McCreary. This is the third collection of his music from the series, and my first exposure to it away from the show. Based on what I've heard here, I now know I must get the others.
I have watched every episode of the series, and still feel that I have barely scratched the surface of what it offers. That said, I could not point you to any particular episode where the music stands out, or where specific pieces first appeared. But that in no way diminishes their value. If anything, this helps me enjoy the music apart from the show. As I listen, I am reminded of the show and its greatness, but I do not have episodes or scenes running through my head distracting me from the music at hand.
Bear's work for Battlestar Galactica is far and away some of, if not the best soundtrack work done for any television series. It is at the top of my list for sure. There are few television series whose music makes a big impact on me outside of the show. The only ones that come to mind are Farscape, The X-Files, Firefly, and perhaps Stargate SG-1. While those, and probably a few others I missed are definitely good or even great, one listen to the music of Battlestar Galactica should convince anyone of just how special this creation is.
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