The New England farm locale during 19th-Century plus the vivid drama inspires Bernstein to avoid the standard soap-opera approach. Instead, he fashions an unusually dramatic, often violent score with considerable power. The soundtrack launches with a furious rush of strings from the start, then introduces powerful brass chords to anchor the intense drama that follows. A rich, dark-hued love theme plays in the balance. When the score is finished, Bernstein signs off with a dynamic fortissimo coda drawn from the opening brass chords. Powerhouse Bernstein!

This CD reissue of the Desire Under The Elms soundtrack offers all the contents of the 1958 Dot label original LP release as originally presented in mono, courtesy of the excellent condition masters from the UMG vaults. Although it runs for just half an hour, Bernstein assembled virtually all of the major highlights into one of his finest early albums.

Packaging & Liner Notes
Standard jewel case with a great 8-page booklet.