Spidey enhanced by Zimmer soundtrack
Even Oscar-winning composers can use a little help.
So it makes sense that Hans Zimmer created his own band of superhero hitmakers, including white-hot Pharrell, to work on “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” soundtrack. The so-called Magnificent Six – which besides Pharrell includes Johnny Marr, Michael Einziger, Junkie XL, Andrew Kawczynski and Steve Mazzaro – works magic with Zimmer and helps him weave a strong accompaniment to the plot.
The score matches the hero’s character and journey – from the playful yet ominous “The Electro Suite” to the sinister orchestral-electro hybrid “My Enemy” to “We’re Best Friends,” which is highlighted by its unusual tempo.
The 20-track album’s crowning glory is the Pharrell co-penned “It’s On Again,” where Alicia Keys’ warm vocals provide a stark contrast to Kendrick Lamar’s growly tones.
Phosphorescent’s ballad “Song for Zula” is aided by cascades of violins, while LIZ’s impish funk “That’s My Man” claps itself into a loop of joy. Pharrell’s earnest vocals on the slow groove “Here” lull you into a sense of emotional security while Czarina Russell brings a classic rock sound to the proceedings on “Within the Web (First Day Jam).”
Zimmer and the Magnificent Six’s collaboration elevates the comic-book hero to heights he wouldn’t get to by relying on his superpowers alone.