If Goldsmith or Williams had written this, we'd be leaping out of our seats to praise them for a classic score. It would be considered "rousing," "swashbuckling," "soaring," "epic," "An expert blending of traditional and electronic instruments," etc. etc. Oh, and we'd also hear things like, "He's still got it!" and "He's back!" Admit it.

After 30 years of collecting scores, I've virtually stopped buying anything new. But I think Pirates III is a fantastic score on many levels. If it were vinyl, I would've worn out the grooves by now. The love theme alone is worth it.

I agree that Zimmer can run hot and cold---I have, I think, four or 5 of his scores total---but he's really created some magic here. Powerful, diverse and cohesive. Oh, and...what's the word...fun.

Well done.

-