The Trunk Records version of the Wicker Man soundtrack is significantly different from the Silva (U.S.) reissue. The former contains songs, incidental sounds, and short snippets of dialogue taken directly from the original version of the film; that is, what you hear during the film is exactly what you hear on the soundtrack. The effect is similar to a sound collage or field recording. The Silva version, while shorter in length, keeps the songs separate from the incidental sounds, effects, and dialogue, producing a more cohesive (if conventional) listening experience. It also includes the song "Gently Johnny," which appeared in a longer, later cut of the film and was therefore omitted from the original Trunk soundtrack. The other big difference is that the Trunk version is in mono and the Silva version in stereo. Also, despite the addition of "Gently Johnny," the Trunk version is still longer, as it contains much more incidental material. So, which one to buy? Fans of traditional British folk music are advised to pick up the Silva release; soundtrack aficionados and seekers of curious sounds should go with the original on Trunk. Completists, of course, will need both, as each contains exclusive material. In any case, The Wicker Man is a stunning soundtrack. Paul Giovanni, together with Magnet, uses flutes, lyres, harmonicas, and guitars in a mixture of original and traditional material to create a mysterious and sinister world that comes to life apart from the film.
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