Original Television Soundtrack: A Deep Dive into Outlander Season 2
Bear McCreary’s work on the Outlander Season 2 Original Television Soundtrack is a complex and compelling journey through 18th-century Parisian salons and the rugged Scottish Highlands. The soundtrack masterfully blends period-specific instrumentation with modern compositional techniques, creating a listening experience that is both immersive and emotionally resonant. The French influences are evident in pieces like “Honey Pot” and “Baroque Chess Match,” which showcase the playful violin and the sophisticated harpsichord. “The Apothecary” stands out with its use of accordion, harpsichord, and cello, evoking a distinct French atmosphere reminiscent of Michael Giacchino’s score for Ratatouille. McCreary’s exploration of French musical traditions demonstrates his versatility and commitment to authenticity.
However, this dedication to historical accuracy leads to a noticeable divide within the album. The French-inspired pieces feel like separate mini-concertos, beautifully crafted but lacking a strong connection to the overall narrative. This shift in tone creates a jarring experience for the listener, as the album abruptly transitions from the refined elegance of Paris to the raw energy of Scotland.
The soundtrack is essentially split into two distinct halves, mirroring the season’s narrative arc. The first half opens with a pared-down French rendition of “The Skye Boat Song,” while the second half features the more familiar Jacobite version. This juxtaposition highlights the contrasting cultural landscapes and emotional journeys of the characters. McCreary’s comfort with traditional Celtic instruments is evident in tracks like “Je Suis Prest,” “125 Yards,” and “Prestonpans,” which pulse with the vibrant energy of Gaelic vocals, bagpipes, and fiddle. “Prestonpans,” in particular, captures the tension and chaos of battle with its dynamic crescendos and intricate layering.
Outlander Season 2 Original Television Soundtrack Album Cover
Following “The Jacobite Skye Boat Song,” the album seamlessly transitions into the familiar sounds of Scotland. Tracks like “Vengeance At Your Feet” and “The Uprising Begins” showcase McCreary’s mastery of traditional Celtic music, utilizing bagpipes, fiddles, and Gaelic vocals to evoke a sense of urgency and passion. This section of the original television soundtrack feels more cohesive and emotionally resonant, allowing listeners to connect with the characters’ struggles and triumphs on a deeper level. The familiar themes of Jamie and Claire, along with the wedding theme, are expertly woven throughout these tracks, reinforcing the emotional core of the story.
“White Roses of Scotland” represents a significant departure for McCreary, incorporating a full chorus for the first time. The result is a hauntingly beautiful and emotionally vulnerable piece that elevates the entire album. The choral vocals add a sense of grandeur and depth, capturing the longing and nostalgia of Claire’s return to Scotland. This standout track exemplifies McCreary’s ability to create music that is both epic and intimate. “Tales Of Brianna” introduces a new theme for the fiery red-haired character, blending it seamlessly with familiar motifs from Jamie and Claire’s themes. “Running Out Of Time” and “Destiny On Culloden Moor” build dramatic tension leading to the poignant and stirring “A Fraser Officer Survived.”
Two tracks, however, seem to stand apart: “Leave The Past Behind” and “The Duel.” “Leave The Past Behind,” centered around Frank’s theme, features the distinctive sound of the clarinet, setting it apart from the rest of the soundtrack. While thematically relevant, its placement within the album disrupts the overall flow. “The Duel” attempts to merge the French and Scottish musical elements but ultimately falls short of its potential. These tracks, while individually impressive, highlight the album’s struggle to maintain a cohesive narrative.
The Outlander Season 2 original television soundtrack, much like The Beatles’ Abbey Road, is a testament to the power of individual brilliance within a sometimes fragmented whole. While the album may lack a consistent through-line, the sheer beauty and emotional depth of individual tracks, particularly “White Roses of Scotland,” solidify its place as a standout achievement in Bear McCreary’s career and a significant contribution to the landscape of original television soundtracks.
