With the Academy Award-nominated score to the 1983 political thriller Under Fire, Jerry Goldsmith achieved his first fully successful fusion of traditional orchestral elements and contemporary electronic effects, and while the music has not dated exceptionally well, its influence on subsequent Goldsmith efforts spanning from Total Recall to Hoosiers makes it essential listening for serious soundtrack enthusiasts. Goldsmith's taut melodies vividly communicate the suspense and intrigue so integral to the onscreen narrative, and while Under Fire pivots on its arsenal of synthesizers, the score also embraces the film's Central American setting via indigenous rhythms and motifs that include Pat Metheny's evocative guitar and Andean pan pipes. ~ Jason Ankeny
