Two for the Road contains music
Henry Mancini composed for the score of the
Audrey Hepburn film of the same name. The title song is presented in three versions: a vocal version performed by a chorus, an instrumental version from the film's main title sequence, and a second instrumental version that is not dramatically different from the first. Many of the compositions have referential or whimsical titles, such as the jazz piano piece "Something for Audrey" and "Congarocka," which sets
Mantovani-style strings and jazzy horn solos to a surf beat. Elsewhere,
Mancini offers vaguely exotic rhythms, flute and vibes solos, and even light classical ("Domain St. Juste"). Those who appreciate
Mancini's "Baby Elephant Walk" excursions will enjoy "Happy Barefoot Boy" and "Something Loose," a pair of similarly upbeat ditties. Only the repetition of the title track interferes with enjoying Two for the Road on its own terms as a varied and entertaining album of mostly instrumental music. ~ Greg Adams