1492 – Conquest of Paradise – Music From The Original Soundtrack cover

1492 – Conquest of Paradise – Music From The Original Soundtrack

Vangelis

Album 1992

About this album

Sound: "Majestic synthesizer landscapes evoke the grandeur and mystery of exploration, blending orchestral swells with electronic textures."

Where they were

By 1992, Vangelis was already an established composer known for his groundbreaking work in film scores. '1492 – Conquest of Paradise' followed his previous success with 'Blade Runner' and showcased his continued evolution in marrying electronic music with orchestral elements, further solidifying his place in cinematic music history.

Why it matters

'1492 – Conquest of Paradise' received significant acclaim, particularly in Europe, where the title track became a commercial hit and is often associated with themes of exploration and discovery. The album not only contributed to Vangelis's reputation as a master composer but also influenced the ambient and new age music scenes of the early '90s.

Essential tracks

  • "Conquest of Paradise" — The title track stands out as an anthem of exploration, featuring soaring melodies that encapsulate both triumph and introspection, becoming emblematic of Vangelis's style.
  • "Moxica and the Horse" — This track's complex arrangement combines rich orchestration with a driving rhythm, capturing the tension and drama of the conquest narrative beautifully.
  • "Pinta, Nina, Santa Maria (Into Eternity)" — At over thirteen minutes, this closing piece is a sweeping exploration that showcases Vangelis's ability to blend different musical themes into a cohesive journey.

Release Date

February 14, 1992

Artist Origin

Greece

Tracklist

  1. 1 Opening 1:21
  2. 2 Conquest of Paradise 4:47
  3. 3 Monastery of La Rabida 3:39
  4. 4 City of Isabel 2:16
  5. 5 Light and Shadow 3:46
  6. 6 Deliverance 3:28
  7. 7 West Across the Ocean Sea 2:53
  8. 8 Eternity 1:59
  9. 9 Hispanola 4:56
  10. 10 Moxica and the Horse 7:06
  11. 11 Twenty Eighth Parallel 5:14
  12. 12 Pinta, Nina, Santa Maria (Into Eternity) 13:19