After so many recent soundtracks that shamelessly ape Celtic traditions and sensibilities (this means you,
James Horner), one has every right to be wary approaching the similarly Irish-influenced
Durango, but
Mark McKenzie's score travels far beyond the average
Riverdance-type pastiche to capture the true beauty and mysticism of the Emerald Isle.
McKenzie seems to channel the authentic spirit of Irish music. No dilettante, he weaves a series of memorable, richly appointed themes that seem ideally matched to the whistles, pan pipes, and drums that lend the melodies such a ring of authenticity, and unlike
Horner, these Irish instruments never seem draped across the music like cheap costume jewelry.
McKenzie also proves adept in a number of stylistic veins, composing bold orchestral themes and light, intimate jigs with equal aplomb. Dismissing
Durango as little more than a run-of-the-mill telefilm score is a mistake. ~ Jason Ankeny