Nightcomers is the first Fielding album I've added to my collection. I haven't seen the film before so I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. According to Doug's description on the site and Fielding's reputation for challenging music, I expected a more stark contrast between the proper music and the "violent interior" music, but this is much more intricate than that. I'm surprised - and impressed - at how easily his music segues from Romantic mode to the darker psychological side. He made it seem effortless.
Some things I liked:
The lively piano run in "Quint Has A Kite" & the continuation of it into the "Act Two Prelude" where the orchestra joins in. I can tell Fielding had a real sense of drama. The way that cue closes is like the underscore of a curtain closing for intermission.
And here's something I certainly didn't expect. The lush, romantic material of "Flora & Miss Jessel," "The Flower Bath," and moments of "The Big Swim." At times, the music seems on the cusp of becoming a full Donaggio or Poledouris string theme but then draws back. It's elusive and restrained - but not frustratingly so.
The opening transition in "Burning Dolls" from elegant brass into icy strings finally delivered that stark contrast I'd expected, and I was glad to hear it.
Also I appreciate that the "classical" music is handled without irony. I was afraid it would be kitschy, but it is never pushed too hard onto the score and seems like a natural part of it.
Overall, a surprisingly accessible album. I expected a more challenging and striking listen, but like the original Henry James story, this is classy, subtle, and skillfully written.
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, interestingly the CD split the Bay Cities version of the Prelude/Myles track into 3 tracks (Quint has a Kite (not on the LP), Act Two Prelude/Myles in the Air & An Arrow for Mrs. Grose).