CD REVIEW - MALICE IN WONDERLAND


Malice in Wonderland
Music by Christian & Joe Henson
MovieScore Media MMS10010
23 Tracks 56:30 mins

Simon Fellows' recent modern-day take on the classic Lewis Carroll story is set in the North East of England and stars Maggie Grace as Alice, who is supported by a host of familiar British actors including Danny Dyer, Nathaniel Parker, Anthony Higgins and Paul Kaye.
The suitably offbeat music accompanying the film is provided by brothers Christian and Joe Henson, who draw on their extensive collection of unusual instruments to provide a whole mix of sounds and styles. Sadly, I haven't unfortunately the time at present to go through every track for you, but the release's publicity should give you a very good idea of what to expect: "The music that surrounds Alice is a totally unique mix of beautiful fairytale themes in waltz meter, dark and noir-ish melodies for electric guitars, cimbalom, trumpet and saxophone, infectious banjo riffs, playful Hammond organ tunes, catchy jingles, indie rock, sentimental piano music and steamy club music." As you can see, a very wide canvas of sounds and you should therefore find something you like. For myself, I favour the fairytale waltz music, even if that is perhaps the most cliched approach in the score, but some of you may prefer the quirkier fare on offer.
In addition to the instrumental selections on the album, there are two songs; the first, the amiable "Where Are You?" performed by Betty Steeles; the second, the wacky country banjo driven "Titty Song," featuring Bobby Chitlin.
Go to www.moviescoremedia.com/maliceinwonderland.html for samples, a trailer for the film, and details as to where to obtain your copy, on CD, or as a digital download.