Recorded - early 1969
Released as a single - April 1969
#1 for weeks of June 28 and July 5, 1969.
I'm noticing a trend on this blog where a rock artist is unexpectedly replaced on top of the charts by an easy listening artist. In this case, we have a hit by Henry Mancini. Now, despite my reservations about his only #1 hit, Mancini also composed the timeless "Pink Panther" and "Peter Gunn" themes. Unfortunately, much of his catalog is orchestrated gentle pop that ranges from interesting to elevator music. "Love Theme From Romeo And Juliet" falls somewhere in between.
The actual 1968 film version of Romeo And Juliet is certainly an undisputed classic. It manages to keep the original tone of the Bard's classic without coming across as dated. Due to the "Love Theme" being featured in an important scene, it manages to stick in the viewer's head once the film is over. Henry Mancini was certainly impressed by it, to the point where he recorded his own interpretation with his orchestra.
Mancini's version of "Love Theme" comes across exactly as you'd expect. Lots of piano, strings, and choir. The tone is rather somber, which makes sense in the context of the tragic Romeo And Juliet. On the other hand, the recording isn't groundbreaking or outstanding in any way. It's merely a carbon copy of the original theme.
At my most cynical, I could say it's mere background music. On the other hand, it's not a complete sleeper, as the arrangement builds from simple piano to a grandiose choral hymn. Regardless, I am still baffled that this mostly forgotten interpretation managed to chart at the top, over lasting classics like Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Bad Moon Rising" and Three Dog Night's "One".
Final Verdict - Without a prior viewing of Romeo And Juliet, "Love Theme", lacks the same emotional resonance that one would have after watching the film. It's certainly very listenable, and pleasant to hear, but I would certainly not consider it to be one of the finest musical achievements of 1969.
Coming Up Next - "In The Year 2525" by Zager And Evans.
Until Next Time, Thou art Lord Rock -
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