The War: A Ken Burns Film

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Type: Music
Studio: Sony Music Distribution
Release Date: 2007-09-11
THE WAR, a seven-part series directed and produced by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick, tells the story of the Second World War through the personal accounts of a handful of men and women from four quintessentially American towns. The series explores the most intimate human dimensions of the greatest cataclysm in history a worldwide catastrophe that touched the lives of every family on every street in every town in America and demonstrates that in extraordinary times, there are no ordinary lives.



This box set companion to the film includes the stunning soundtrack, as well as three additional compilations of his and war-era favorites featuring recordings from Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra. Also included are new tracks from Wynton Marsalis and Norah Jones.

A Touching, Haunting Score
This soundtrack for Ken Burn's "The War" documentary can be evaluated on two different criteria:

First, there is the period music (mostly jazz). I did not buy the soundtrack for this reason, but for those older than I it will likely bring back many great memories of times gone by.

Secondly, however, there are the haunting melodies that are the undercurrent of the entire film. Whether it be the soothing voice of Norah Jones, the aching violin, or the soft, solo piano, this soundtrack perfectly blends the music to fit the tone of the material. Each time I listen to these tracks, it makes me remember watching the film, along with all the sadness and joy that came with that experience.

If you enjoyed "The War", you will more than likely also enjoy this collection of songs.

Ken Burns: The War
Two of the four volumes were excellent -- Hits From The Second World War, Dance Hits From The Second World War. The other were not, at least according to my tastes.

Very nice compilation of music
Though laborious at times, most of the music in this 4 cd set is exceptional.

just great
I purchased the cd collection of the music from "The War" this month as it was the perfect companion to the film. I really think the music enhanced the experience and it fit well. The big band music of the era evoked memories of my mothers childhood and the stories that she shared with my sisters and me about the war. Nora Jones haunting american anthem is a classic and contrast to the somber funeral of falstaff. I feel that the entire project is the best american documentary I have seen.
J.W. Larrick

What about the Elgar?
All of the music is top notch. However, no one is mentioning the lovely, plaintive piano rendition of the Elgar variation. In the film, this is often the backdrop to the times when the dead are remembered. This piece alone made the experience of watching and listening meaningful.