National Treasure - Various Artists

Author's product rating:   

Originality	Definitely a cut above the rest
Lyrics	Not applicable
Quality and consistency of tracks	A couple of weak links
Value for Money	Satisfactory

Advantages:	Great original soundtrack
Disadvantages:	Can become boring if listened to too much

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

Overview

If you enjoyed the film, then the music probably had a part to play in your opinion. The first time I listened to this soundtrack I was really impressed - it seriously is good. After a while however, the tracks can become a bit monotonous as they do repeat themselves. It is easy to picture the film when listening to the music. The best tracks are probably 'Interrogation' and 'Treasure'. I think that if you can find this CD for under ten pounds then it is certainly worth a purchase. Make sure you don't 'over-listen' to it. Some OSTs can be repeated over and over again without getting boring. I usually come back to this soundtrack every couple of weeks or so and I still love to listen to it. It can't compete to a lot of work by John Williams or Hans Zimmer, although I think Trevor Rabin had done a good job.

Tracks

1. National Treasure Suite
If you have seen the film then this is probably the most recognisable track. Quite lively and a very catchy tune that you will have to hum along to.

2. Ben
This track tells the tale of how Ben finds the ship he has been searching for for ages (a step towards the treasure) and gives a real sense of triumph.

3. Finding Charlotte
This is when Ben actually finds the ship - similar to Ben. At 1:05, this is the shortest track on the CD

4. Library of Congress
An interesting track with the main tune repeated many times throughout the film. Not the best track but a great reminder of the film.

5. Preparation Montague
This track is great. I really enjoyed listening to this one - lots of action in it and again, great reminder of the film.

6. Arrival at National Archives
Similar to Preparation Montague although at this stage you will notice a tune that is repeated a lot.

7. The Chase
A bit different to the previous 6 tracks, I don't like listening to it much by itself although it does suit the film so I guess it was worth doing.

8. Declaration of Independence
Very slow track after number 7 but it is quite emotional and tells the tale of how important the Declaration is and how ground-breaking the evidence on it could be.

9. Foot Chase
Very similar to The Chase, but again good for film purposes.

10. Spectacle Discovery
The beginning of this track is really good although the familiar tune seeks through at the end.

11. Interrogation
Probably the best track on the CD - parts of it are quite unique and can really get you in the mood like POTC 3 can - I have listened to this track many times over.

12. Treasure
A brilliant track to round off the CD - portrays the emotional struggle to get to the place where Ben is now - gives a sense of completion after the epic journey throughout the film.

Conclusion

Overall, I would give would this product a 3.5 star rating (although I can't so it'll have to be 3) - not as good of POTC or LOTR or HP but still worth buying for £10; well done Trevor Rabin!