Relative to the original MCA CD—and the Universal France, which was ostensibly the MCA CD reproduced at a lower volume—the Quartet edition is both quieter and softer in tone. I wanted to go for a more dynamic and less forward sound. That choice might not be in everyone’s wheelhouse, especially if either previous release is etched in your aural memory.
As the material heard in the film was often dedicated mono mixes, rather than a fold-down of the stereo material, we decided to include them. The film version of the Matt Monro title song makes its premiere on this part of the disc too.
Relative to the original MCA CD—and the Universal France, which was ostensibly the MCA CD reproduced at a lower volume—the Quartet edition is both quieter and softer in tone. I wanted to go for a more dynamic and less forward sound. That choice might not be in everyone’s wheelhouse, especially if either previous release is etched in your aural memory.
As the material heard in the film was often dedicated mono mixes, rather than a fold-down of the stereo material, we decided to include them. The film version of the Matt Monro title song makes its premiere on this part of the disc too.
Chris
Many thanks for your response, Chris, and I hope I didn't come across as hyper-critical! But I think it is definitely an age thing. I grew up with 1960s LPs and so have become very accustomed to albums sounding bright and punchy with that distinctive left-right stereo image, which as you suggest is probably why this new remaster sounds rather different to my old ears.
No problem at all! In my view, constructive feedback is important as it allows me opportunity to reflect and potentially bring a different perspective to a new project. So, thanks for the taking the time to listen so attentively!
The original album is not all that exciting. I will be interested to find out if the extra music is a revelation - as with Mancini's "Charade" - or if it simply offers more of the same.
Also, I'm very nervous about allowing Matt Monro into my home.
I don't think Charade had any essential extra material as it proved out when I bought iit but I totally agree, over the Italian Job this one is a most overrated score - I know because I own the Q.J Universal box set which includes tne score minus s the extra tracks- but from a look at the extra titles the music is more of the same snoozy and boring score.I think I ll pass this one so Quartet Records usual 1000 copies stock will last (about a minute) longer!
