Caleb Sampson: Mr. Death - The Rise And Fall Of Fred A. Leuchter Jr.

A member of the marvelous “Alloy Orchestra” (see AAJ April 2000 reviews), Sampson’s soundtrack is one that imparts a lasting impression for it’s compactness and illustrious conveyance of sequential themes and animated flow along with the beautiful and at times haunting melodies. Pieces such as the opener, “Heroics” features Sampson’s commanding – militaristic – style orchestrations and “Ghost Waltz” where Sampson and his bandmates implement somber strings and dark arrangements that emit an air of tragedy or dejection. Apparently, Mr. Leuchter was consumed by his work while also purveying some fairly odd ideologies and dogmas. Many of the compositions here invoke gorgeous waltz-like themes, majestic flutes and an overall distinct sense of nobility along with peaks and valleys of an often probing or inquiring nature. Despite the morose or moribund inferences, Mr. Death is a magnificent score that stands on its own in towering fashion! Highly recommended....... * * * * *

Comments