Soundtrack collectors and composer afficionados around the globe always await the news of Varese Sarabande's newest limited edition CD Club releases with baited breath, and the September set offers - as usual - something to get excited about.  No sign of Bill Conti this time around, but the label once again focuses on one of its favourite composer's - Elmer Bernstein.  The composer's discography is filling up nicely thanks to Robert Townson's efforts and the release of Bernstein's 1969 score for Guy Green's A Walk in the Spring Rain will surely be yet another fast seller, not to mention a further jewel in the Varese Bernstein set.  The premier release features the original main and end title song composed by Bernstein with Oscar-winning lyricist Don Black.

Joining that is a must own album as the label has finally made Jerry Goldsmith's Escape from the Planet of the Apes available.  The late composer's third Apes score once again found him offering something different and the eclectic score, bursting with characteristic energy, features steel drums, sitar and electric guitar.  While it's being sold as a 'complete score', the running time of only 28 minutes leaves a lot to be desired; still we've only been treated to a short extract in the past so this release is most welcome indeed.

Franz Waxman is another favourite of the label and the producers have once again delved into the great composer's back catalogue and pulled out yet another unreleased score.  This time it is his 'sizzling' and energetic 1956 turn, Crime in the Streets.  Limited to just 1500 pressings (like the Bernstein title) it's sure to disappear swiftly.

Finally the label celebrates the 25th Anniversary of Children of the Corn with premier CD release of Jonathan Elias' much loved original score.  Previously released by Varese on LP in 1984, it has become a long sought after title - so much so the limited run of 1000 copies has already sold out!

Robert Townson is edging closer still to his 1000th album release and we're certainly eager to discover what it will be.  Judging by the calibre of these club releases, it's sure to be something special.  We will of course keep you up to date with the latest news when we know it.

For full details of the new Varese Sarabande CD Club release, as well as their latest general releases go to www.varesesarabande.com or indeed www.colosseum.de to order from their European distributor.

Michael Beek