Thomas Newman, the acclaimed composer known for his evocative and atmospheric scores, delivers a captivating soundtrack with "Side Effects." Released on March 5, 2013, under the label Music.Film, this album is a masterful blend of orchestral and electronic elements, perfectly complementing the film of the same name. Spanning just 38 minutes, the soundtrack is a concise yet powerful journey through a range of emotions and moods.
The album opens with "Acute Parasomnia," setting the tone with its haunting melodies and intricate layers. Tracks like "Very Sick Girl (Main Title)" and "Houston Free Meds" showcase Newman's ability to create tension and intrigue, while "Relativity" and "Past Behaviour" offer moments of reflection and introspection. The orchestral arrangements in "Another Acquittal" and "Knife" are particularly striking, highlighting Newman's skill in blending traditional and modern sounds.
"Hopelessness" and "Allison Finn" delve into darker, more somber territories, while "Dark Stormy" and "Poisonous Fog" evoke a sense of foreboding and unease. The album's midpoint offers a brief respite with "Salt Water," a track that is both soothing and melancholic. The second half of the album continues to build in intensity, with "Conduct Review" and "Double Jeopardy" adding layers of complexity and depth.
"Malingering" and "St. Luke's" bring a sense of urgency and drama, culminating in "Take Back Tomorrow (End Title)," a powerful and emotive conclusion to the soundtrack. The album closes with "The Forgotten People," leaving the listener with a lingering sense of both resolution and lingering questions.
"Side Effects" is a testament to Thomas Newman's versatility and creativity as a composer. Whether you're a fan of film scores or simply appreciate well-crafted music, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
