Sunday, June 22, 2008

Sepinwall on TV: Michael Giacchino and Bear McCreary, score keepers

Today's column, as mentioned earlier in the week, features a pair of interlocking conversations with "Lost" composer Michael Giacchino and "Battlestar Galactica" composer Bear McCreary (pictured above). In addition, because they gave me more than I could use, I also put up a semi-complete transcript of both interviews.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

That was a great piece, thank you very much, Alan.

Both of those guys, as you said, create such a unique dimension to their respective shows that it's damn near impossible to imagine either Lost or Battlestar Galactica without the score.

I can't stop listening to the cue "Heeding the Call" and then McCreary's version of "All Along the Watchtower". When I think of Battlestar now, I think of that amazing music and that amazing episode.

Thanks again, Alan.

Anonymous said...

While all of Bear McCreary's music is great and I'd be sad to lose it, I confess a bit of a preference for the more minimalist, drum-laden score of the miniseries and first season. It's interesting that he talks about always having to top what he did before---seems like a common problem in episodic television, and not just for scoring.

Matthew said...

Just wanted to say thanks for the article. Both Giacchino and McCreary are exceptionally talented composers, and I've enjoyed their work immensely. Sadly, I don't think many people would know their names - music score tends to be one of the (many) forgotten elements of film and television production, yet it is such an essential element. So it's nice when some attention and recognition is given to their efforts.

Anonymous said...

I have the soundtracks for both shows - great art in and of themselves. I've been kind of obsessed with the Lost soundtrack for a while now. I knew from one of the podcasts that Giacchino does the scores about two days in advance - it's mind-boggling.

I'm glad you brought up "Shamballa" in the extended interview, it's such a beautiful rendition of a great old melody. They did the same thing in season one, just for a brief moment, when Shannon sings "La Mer," and it transitions into a piano rendition. It's beautiful, I wish it had been longer.

Anonymous said...

A great article on a part of television that is too often overlooked by many, myself included. What these men do, and the time frame they do it in, is absolutely amazing. It's proper that they are recognized for their work, so great job Alan.