“Harvey Two Face” starts gently; the strings are uplifting. Again, in the middle segment, there is a clash of two contrasting musical ideas playing off each other, increasing in volume. All gives way to a piano backed by strings, then the orchestra joins in recreating the opening on a grander scale, especially with the brass section.
Batman’s theme from the first film appears briefly in “Aggressive Expansion.” After the initial thrust, the instruments subside. The sounds become more ambient than classical, but then at the close the orchestra pushes forward from its sonic cocoon, as if reaching for the heavens. It concludes by revisiting the percussive pounding motif from “Why So Serious?”
A number of the remaining selections are also variations on themes or reuse motifs. For example, “Always a Catch” is a reprise of “Why So Serious?” “Blood on My Hands” nods back to “Harvey Two Face.” “Like A Dog Chasing Cars” combines “Aggressive Expansion” and “Why So Serious?” When heard during the film, even unconsciously, they can provide reminders and clues for the viewer to help set the mood the director wants.
“Agent of Chaos” is aptly titled, as the piece continually changes, one of the more dramatic pieces that appear to encompass an entire story. Another battle is taking place, but this incident ends sadly, likely corresponding to a loss of one of the main characters. However, there’s no time for despair when you are Batman and someone like The Joker wants to “Introduce A Little Anarchy,” their themes taking turn as the focal point.
The album concludes with “A Dark Knight,” a sixteen-minute suite dedicated to the film’s hero. A synthesizer, played by Zimmer, joins the arrangement creating an interesting union sounding new and old at the same time. The piece does a good conveying the emotions that encompass the character of Batman/Bruce Wayne in the film.
The partnership of Zimmer and Howard has created a wonderful collection of music that is perfectly enjoyable and stand on its own for those who haven’t seen the movie.
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