The soundtrack to the natural history landmark sequel Frozen Planet II will be digitally released on 07 October 2022, followed by a 2 CD physical release on 21 October and triple vinyl in early 2023. The Emmy and BAFTA nominated Bleeding Fingers Music team, headed by Hans Zimmer, deliver an ethereal and powerful soundtrack featuring the vocals of Aurora and backed by the Reykjavík Recording Choir and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales...

After George Fenton's incredible score for the first series of Frozen Planet, the producers decided that musically they'd change tact. While, at first I was impressed and intrigued by the new sound (who doesn't love a good Hans Zimmer theme) it soon became obvious that the main theme, while integral to tying the score together, was going to be a little intrusive.

The 3-note leitmotif from the opening theme is slowly varied and carried by the waves of shifting harmonies supported by crystalline strings, metallic percussion and contemplative brass. On the second album the sound becomes more defined with the themes establishing themselves whilst the swirling and pulsating orchestral sound intermittently supports and drowns them.

This idea works incredibly well, but probably a little better in the series than when heard in isolation. While an interesting and varied album I found there were a few too many experimental pieces, like 'Fidgety Bedfellow' that took me out of the chilled vibe that tracks like 'Giants of the Deep' brought forth.

While still an enjoyable collection of themes, I much preferred Fenton's more traditional documentary approach.

6

Darren Rea