Few blockbusters can claim to be as influential as The Matrix (1999), written and directed by the Wachowskis. From its super high-concept that has wormed its way into the public’s imagination (what if we’re all just living in a computer simulation?), to Keanu Reeves’ iconic hero Neo, to the brilliant, jaw-dropping and story-based visual effects, The Matrix delivered on all fronts. Its three films grossed over $1.6 billion worldwide, and a fourth is on the way.
The Matrix demanded a score that was as unique, sophisticated and imaginative as its concept and action—and got one from composer Don Davis. Davis, who scored the Wachowskis’ Bound (1996), reinvented the symphonic language of the action blockbuster by drawing on cutting-edge concert-hall minimalism and his own background as an avant-garde composer, while maintaining the energy, pace and density required of a studio action film.
From the clashing-brass “reflections,” to the racing strings, pounding percussion and flittering, repeating musical “cells,” the Matrix score fits hand-in-glove with the film’s concept of a computer-controlled reality—and offers a unique musical thumbprint that is recognizable sometimes only from a single note or chord. It is the rare commercial triumph that is also an artistic landmark.
The Matrix was released by Varèse Sarabande at the time of the film, and then in a Deluxe Edition that fit as much of the score as possible on one CD. By popular demand, this 3-LP set presents the complete score. Liner notes feature a new interview with Don Davis conducted by Kaya Savas.
Track Listing
Side A:
Logos / The Matrix Main Title
Trinity Infinity
Neo Con Brio
Follow The White Rabbit
Neo On The Edge
Through The Surveillance Monitor
Unable To Speak
Bait And Switch
Side B:
Switched For Life
Switched At Birth
Switches Brew
Cold Hearted Switch
Nascent Nauseous Neo
A Morpheus Moment
Bow Whisk Orchestra
Side C:
Domo Showdown
Switch Or Break Show
Shake, Borrow, Switch
Switch Works Her Boa
Bring Me Dinner
The System
Freeze Face
Switch Woks Her Boar
Cypher Cybernetic
Ignorance Is Bliss / Cyber Cyphernetic
See Who?
Switch Out
Side D:
Boon Spoy
Oracle Cookies
Threat Mix
Exit Mr. Hat
On Your Knees, Switch
Side E:
Mix The Art
Whoa, Switch Broke
The Cure
It’s The Smell
The Lobby
No More Spoons
Dodge This
Fast Learning
Ontological Shock
Side F:
That’s Gonna Hurt
Surprise
He’s The One Alright
Music Composed, Orchestrated and Conducted by DON DAVIS
