Return to Never Land

When listening to this score, it's simply a Return to Never Land.� Composer Joel McNeely shines bright in this sequel to the animated classic Peter Pan.� This score is just simply a touch of magic.� Having never seen the film, the music - along with the track titles - were all I had to guide me through Pan's new adventure.� There aren't any "Superman-like" themes that you'll be humming after the first listen, but there are a few fun melodies that caught my ear after a couple listens.

The soundtrack opens with the rather lame song, "Do you Believe in Magic" by BBMAK followed by the "Main Title".� This track transports you back to Never Land with magical melodies and an instrumental hint of the classic "Following the Leader" song from the first picture; definitely a highlight.� The soundtrack also includes a few original songs that aren't as original and memorable as the original classic.

McNeely has also created a nice action score as well.� "Jane is Kidnapped" is highly energetic and also introduces a dark "Pirate" theme.� It's great music to drive to!� Another noteworthy track is "Summoning the Octopus / Pan Saves Jane.� It begins with a familiar "Tick-Tock" tune ala the infamous crocodile, which I guess in this sequel is replaced by an octopus.� Or so it would seem based on the track listing.� This track then bursts into a super cool action/fanfare piece that surely kicks major butt.� "Flight Through Never Land", Track 10, is a wonderful cue that makes you feel like you're soaring over a fake-looking Never Land, like Robin Williams in Hook.

In terms of memorable themes, Return to Never Land is no Hook but it's still a fun listen and shouldn't be passed by.� The only real grudges I have with this album are the rather lame "original" songs, but Joel McNeely's score fits like a glove for this magical adventure.� He has extraordinary talent and Hollywood needs to use him more.