Kung Fu Panda

The release of this score is somewhat historic (in a sense). It marks the reuniting of John Powell with his mentor and friend, Hans Zimmer. It's been 8 years since the two have worked together on a score, and that was back in 2000 on The Road To El Dorado. Since then Powell has established himself as one of Hollywood's best and most demanded composers.

For Kung Fu Panda the two have created an epic score that utilizes both of their styles. The first track kicks things off in a grandiose style with some signature Powell percussion and trumpets. The theme for the film is very simple. Just a descending set of notes with a distinctive Chinese influence. Zimmer has a few Asian influenced scores under his belt. He worked with a Japanese sound for Black Rain and The Last Samurai. More appropriately he scored an amazing theme for Chow Yun-Fat's character from Singapore in Pirates Of The Caribbean: At World's End. The Chinese sound incorporated into this score is not dominating...Read more

I love the music on this soundtrack. Hans Zimmer's musical compositions fit the movie perfectly. My favorite track is "Hero". It is very exuberant and uplifting. I also love the beat of the drums on the track "Let The Tournament Begin". "Oogway Ascends" has such a peaceful tone to it. "Tai Lung Escapes" is another favorite track. This track conveys danger and excitement at the same time. I love the sound of the track "The Bridge". This track conveys intensity in a very exciting part of the movie. "Panda Po" is a track with a good asian feel to it. This track celebrates the hero of the movie. I love the flute, drums and guitar I love Cee Lo Green's version of "Kung Fu Fighting". This is such a fun song. I love the music on this soundtrack very much.

Despite this score being a wonderful piece of music "oogway ascends" alone is reason enough to buy this score!