[The News Bot]

Reviewed by Chris McEneany, 25th October 2009
Peplum scores may not be at the forefront of many soundtrack collectors' wish-lists, but to ignore such lavish, rousing music would be doing themselves something of a disservice. Intrada's track record for sourcing, licensing, restoring and releasing so many neglected and overlooked gems as this terrific score from Dov Seltzer is a point of pride and admiration for people who love to look – and listen – beyond the conventional and the mainstream.

The 7 Magnificent Gladiators represents some pantomime bang 'n' clash, a notable villain's theme as well as a rousing and eminently hummable heroic theme, and, most rewardingly of all, some left-field lyricism that often takes the breath away. It both respects and deviates from the classic peplum scores from the likes of Carlo Rustichelli, Carlo Savina, Roberto Nicolosi and Piero Piccioni, casting its own unique little spell. Intrada presents the complete score from the original ¼ inch two-track stereo masters from the recording in Rome. Dov Seltzer also conducts.

Recommended.


Read the full review...